PHYS 342- Modern Physics

IUPUI Spring Semester 2014

Class/Section Number/Location/Time/Instructor:

Introduction

Course Description:

"Modern Physics" mainly refers to physics developed in the 20th century based on the two major breakthroughs: theory of relativity and quantum theory. Instead, physics based on Newton’s laws, Maxwell’s equations and thermodynamics, which were developed before the 20th century, is usually called "Classical Physics".

This is an introduction (3 credits) course to modern physics for students majoring in engineering, mathematics, and physical sciences. We will trace in some detail just how the new physics developed, specially the experimental and theoretical paradoxes that forced physicists to think out of the path of the classical physics for getting a better understanding of nature. The following topics will be covered: special theory of relativity; the particlelike properties of EM radiation; the wavelike properties of particles; the basis of quantum mechanics: the Schrödinger equation; the Bohr atom model; the hydrogen atom; the many-electron atom; the basis of nuclear structure, radioactivity, and nuclear reactions; an introduction of elementary particles.

Note that this is not just a course on concepts: the lectures and homework are sufficient to give the student basic techniques to do simple quantitative calculation based on special relativity and quantum mechanics.

Prerequisite or Corequisite:

PHY 152, PHY251, and Math 166 (Calculus II) or equivalent. Students should have a solid background of algebra, trigonometry, differential and integral calculus as well as a basic understanding of differential equations.

Required Textbook: available at the IUPUI Bookstore at the Campus Center

Modern Physics, 3rd Edition, Kenneth S. Krane ISBN : 978-1-118-32464-6, Wiley, January 2012.

Organization

The total credits of this course is about 700 points, which are accumulated from the THREE parts.

1) Exams:

Test 1 and Test 2 have 100 points each, and the final exam has 150 points.

There is no late credit for Exams. If you must miss an Exam, contact Dr. Luo as soon as possible. If you have a valid, documented reason for missing the Exam, we will arrange makeup work or test. If you miss a second Exam, you will receive a zero except under extraordinary circumstances.

2) In-Class Problems and Homework:

You need to solve about 90 problems in this course. Each problem is worth 3 points, giving the total points are about 270. Around 60 problems are traditional Homework assignment. The other 30 problems will be solved based on in-class discussion. These In-Class Problems can be taken home to finish, and need to be submitted with homework.

Every Wednesday class by 2:50 PM is the deadline associated with In-Class Problems and Homework assignment of the previous week. There is no late credit (makeup) for In-Class Problems and Homework. Each missed In-Class Problems and Homework assignment receives a zero, and will be added into your final semester grade.

3) Projects:

Students work in groups (maximum 3 people) to perform a research project, which is chosen from a list of topics provided by the instructor. The total credits for the project is 80 points, among which 40 points are given based on a written report and the other 40 points are given according to the presentation. The deadline for the report is the time when students present their research. There is no late credit for Projects.

Grades

The following letter grade cutoffs are guaranteed. These cutoffs may be lowered at the discretion of the instructors but they will not be raised:

Keep In Mind

Administrative Withdrawal:

A basic requirement of this course is that you will participate in class and conscientiously all assignments. Keep in touch with Dr. Luo if you are unable to attend class or complete an assignment on time. If you miss more than half our class meetings within the first four weeks of the semester without contacting me, you will be administratively withdrawn from the course. Our class meets two times per week; thus if you miss more than four classes in the first four weeks, you may be withdrawn. Administrative withdrawal may have academic, financial, and financial aid implications, please visit http://registrar.iupui.edu/withdrawal-policy.html.