Modern Physics
Keywords |
Classification |
Keyword |
OFICIAL |
Physics |
Instance: 2019/2020 - 2S 
Cycles of Study/Courses
Teaching language
Portuguese
Objectives
To understand the inadequacy of classical concepts in the interpretation of some experimental results and the need for a new formulation of physics. To introduce wave mechanics, making applications to one-dimensional systems. To understand the atomic structure and atomic processes. To Study applications of quantum physics in astrophysics, condensed matter and/or optics.
Learning outcomes and competences
Solving problems in pre-quantic physics
Exact resolution of the Schrödinger equation for various potentials in one dimension
Working method
Presencial
Pre-requirements (prior knowledge) and co-requirements (common knowledge)
RECOMMENDED PREREQUISITES: Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Wave Physics, Thermal Physis
Program
- Historical Introduction: Physics in the late nineteenth century
- Semi-quantum formulation. The quantum theory of radiation. Blackbody radiation (review). Photoelectric effect. Compton effect. Production and annihilation of pairs. X-ray
- Atomic models. Introduction to the atom. Rutherford model (cross section of diffusion of particles by nuclei). Bohr model (postulated; atomic spectra). Frank-Hertz experiment.
- Wave properties of matter. De Broglie hypothesis. Young slits experiments. Diffraction of electrons. Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. Waves and wave trains. The Principle of Correspondence. Limit of validity of Newtonian physics.
- Introduction to quantum mechanics. Schrodinger equation. Born interpretation. Stationary states. Quantum numbers. Resolution of the Schrodinger equation for potential ladder (1D). Tunnel effect. Applications. Reference to one-dimensional harmonic oscillator. Reference to the Hydrogen atom. Stern-Gerlach experiment and the spin of the electron. Zeeman effect and fine structure.
Mandatory literature
Krane; Modern Physics
Tipler P A and Llewllyn R A; Modern Physics
Serway, Moses, Moyer; Modern Physics
Complementary Bibliography
Eisberg and Resnick; Quantum Physics
Gasiorowicz; The Strucutre of Matter
Teaching methods and learning activities
Lectures (T). Solving the problem sheets (by the teacher and/or by students) in TP classes.
Evaluation Type
Evaluation with final exam
Assessment Components
designation |
Weight (%) |
Exame |
100,00 |
Total: |
100,00 |
Amount of time allocated to each course unit
designation |
Time (hours) |
Estudo autónomo |
106,00 |
Frequência das aulas |
56,00 |
Total: |
162,00 |
Eligibility for exams
Attending the lectures is not mandatory.
Calculation formula of final grade
Max[Exam, T1 + T2]
Observations
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the evaluation method changed to: final exam requiring presence.
The jury of the curricular unit includes:
-
Eduardo V. Castro -
M. Fátima Mota