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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
| PHYS2360 | Quantum 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 type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Workshop | 11 | 1.00 | 11.00 |
| Office Hour Discussions | 11 | 1.00 | 0.00 |
| Lecture | 55 | 1.00 | 55.00 |
| Private study hours | 184.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 66.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 250.00 | ||
Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Online Assessment | Online Mid-Term Assessment | 30.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 30.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Online Time-Limited assessment | 48 hr 00 mins | 70.00 |
| 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 websiteLast updated: 12/10/2020 15:48:24
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