PH2652 Modern Physics

An introduction to modern physics. Theory of relativity; blackbody radiation; photoelectric effect; matter waves; atomic spectral lines; Bohr model of the atom; uncertainty relations (position-momentum and time-energy); the Schrödinger equation (time dependent and independent); probability interpretation; infinite, finite and parabolic potential wells; tunneling (single and double barriers); electron spin and exclusion principle; the periodic table; molecular energy levels; quantum statistics (Bose-Einstein, Fermi-Dirac).

Prerequisite

PH1121, PH1322

Lecture Hours

Lab Hours

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

Understand special relativity including:

Length contraction and time dilation
Synchronization and simultaneity
The Doppler effect
The Twin Paradox
Relativistic energy and momentum

Understand the origins of quantum mechanics, to include

Blackbody radiation
Photoelectric effect
The Bohr model of atomic quantization

Analyze simple problems involving the Schrödinger equation including

Particle in a box
Finite square well potential
Step potentials
Barrier penetration

Understand atomic structure