Module PHYS2511: FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSICS 2

Department: Physics

PHYS2511: FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSICS 2

Prerequisites

• Foundations of Physics 1 (PHYS1122) AND Single Mathematics A (MATH1561) and Single Mathematics B (MATH1571) OR Core Mathematics A (MATH1012).

Corequisites

• Mathematical Methods in Physics (PHYS2521) OR Analysis in Many Variables II (MATH2031) which covers similar material.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• This module is designed primarily for students studying Department of Physics or Natural Sciences degree programmes.
• It builds on the Level 1 module Foundations of Physics 1 (PHYS1122) by providing courses on Electromagnetism and Quantum Mechanics.

Content

• The syllabus contains:
• Electromagnetism: Formulation of Maxwell's equations. Plane electromagnetic (EM) waves in free space. Dielectric, magnetic and conducting media. Plane wave solution of Maxwell's equations in linear, isotropic and homogeneous (LIH) media. Energy flow and Poynting's vector. Refraction and reflection at the planar interface between two LIH media. EM wave propagation in plasmas. Radiation of electromagnetic waves in free space.
• Elements of Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics: wavefunction, Schroedinger equation, operators, eigenfunctions and eigenvalues. Hydrogen atom: states and quantum numbers. Orbital and spin angular momentum. Atomic magnetic moments and magnetic field effects. Two electron problem: symmetry, exclusion principle, exchange energy. Helium atom. Multielectron atoms: electronic configurations, periodic table, LS coupling, atomic spectra.

Learning Outcomes

• Having studied the module students will be familiar with and able to manipulate and solve Maxwell's equations in a variety of standard situations.
• They will have an understanding of how the electrical and magnetic properties of simple media can be represented, and an appreciation of the key concepts relating to the propagation and radiation of electromagnetic waves in free space and simple media.
• They will be familiar with the formal theory of quantum mechanics and have an ability to use the theory to solve standard problems for model systems.
• They will have a quantum mechanical understanding of the basic properties of the hydrogen atom and be able to use quantum theory to calculate various aspects of physical behaviour.
• They will appreciate the models used to explain multielectron atoms and be able to apply the models in simple cases.

• In addition to the acquisition of subject knowledge, students will be able to apply the principles of physics to the solution of predictable and unpredictable problems.
• They will know how to produce a well-structured solution, with clearly-explained reasoning and appropriate presentation.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Teaching will be by lectures and example classes.
• The lectures provide the means to give concise, focused presentation of the subject matter of the module. The lecture material will be explicitly linked to the contents of recommended textbooks for the module, thus making clear where students can begin private study. When appropriate, the lectures will also be supported by the distribution of written material, or by information and relevant links on DUO.
• Regular problem exercises and example classes will give students the chance to develop their theoretical understanding and problem solving skills.
• Students will be able to obtain further help in their studies by approaching their lecturers, either after lectures or at other mutually convenient times.
• Student performance will be summatively assessed through an examination and problem exercises. The examination and problem exercises will provide the means for students to demonstrate the acquisition of subject knowledge and the development of their problem-solving skills. The problem exercises and example classes provide opportunities for feedback, for students to gauge their progress and for staff to monitor progress throughout the duration of the module.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Example classes and problems solved therein.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University