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2023/24 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

PHYS2310 Physics 4- Quantum and Nuclear Physics

25 creditsClass Size: 200

Module manager: Dr Zlatko Papic
Email: Z.Papic@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2023/24

This module is mutually exclusive with

PHYS2360Quantum Mechanics (Joint Honours)

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Objectives

By the end of the module you should be able to:

Quantum Mechanics:
- write down the time dependent and time independent Schrodinger Equations;
- recall the form of and properties of wave functions, eigenfunctions and probability functions;
- derive the form of the wavefunction for a particle confined in an infinite square well;
- recall the form of the wavefunctions for other confining potentials;
- understand and use the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle;
- use operators to calculate expectation values;
- describe the concepts of symmetrical and antisymmetrical wave functions;
- explain in general terms the Pauli Exclusion Principle and use spin functions;
- describe the quantum mechanical model of the hydrogen atom;
- describe the electron configuration of atoms and their spectra;
- describe the quantum mechanical origins of ionic and covalent bonds.
- describe the principle of laser action


Nuclear and Particle Physics:
-discuss components of the Standard Model of Particle Physics
-understand and interpret Feynman diagrams
-discuss different models of the nucleus
-estimate nuclear masses
-discuss and predict various forms of radioactive decay and nuclear reactions

Condensed Matter:
- use the density of states to explain some of the differences between metals, semiconductors and insulators;
- derive the free-electron density of states;
- perform straight-forward calculations based on the free-electron theory;
- explain how a periodic potential modifies the free-electron dispersion relation;
- solve problems on the transport properties of semiconductors;
- calculate the magnetic properties (consistent with the syllabus) of paramagnets and ferromagnets.

Learning outcomes
Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of common physical laws and principles, and some applications of these principles.
Identify relevant principles and laws when dealing with problems.

Skills outcomes
Understanding of core Quantum Mechanics, Solid State Physics and Particle Physics


Syllabus

Quantum Mechanics
-Schrodinger equation,
-wave function,
-standard solutions,
-Hydrogen atom,
-spin,
-Pauli exclusion principle,
-Fermions and Bosons.
-1st order time independent perturbation theory, periodic table, quantum structure, spectra of simple atoms, laser action.

Condensed Matter:
-Molecular bonding,
-density of states,
-free electron model,
-semiconductors

Nuclear and Particle Physics:
-introduction to particle physics
-Feynman diagrams
-models of the nucleus
-radioactive decay
-nuclear reactions

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Workshop111.0011.00
Office Hour Discussions111.000.00
Lecture551.0055.00
Private study hours184.00
Total Contact hours66.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)250.00

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Online AssessmentOnline Mid-Term Assessment30.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)30.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated


Exams
Exam typeExam duration% of formal assessment
Online Time-Limited assessment48 hr 00 mins70.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)70.00

Students will have to complete an online assessment at the end of the module. This will take place during the examinations period at the end of the semester and will be time bound. The assessment will not take 48 hours to complete, but students will have a 48 hour time period in which to complete it. Students are required to pass all assessments for this module in order to pass the module overall.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 12/10/2020 15:48:24

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