P2750 Modern Physics
2750 Modern Physics explores the fundamental ideas that are still driving technological developments. Einstein’s theory of special relativity, and the microscopic world described by quantum physics are introduced through crucial historical observations. The course covers the dual nature of light and particles, quantum well and quantum tunneling phenomena, which play a key role in modern electronics. Atomic and nuclei structure, and elementary particles are also described.
CO: Mathematics 1001 and Phys 1051 (or Phys 1021 with a minimum average of 70%)
CR: Phys 2056
PR: Mathematics 1001 and Phys 1051 (or Phys 1021 with a minimum average of 70%)
Physics 2750 explores two extraordinary concepts that revolutionized the world: special relativity and quantum physics. Both of these discoveries occurred in the early part of the 20th century and have made a profound impact on the way we live today. These fundamental ideas are still driving many technological developments. By taking this course, you will learn about Einstein’s theory of time dilation and length contraction for fast-moving objects. Modern GPS systems would not be nearly as accurate without correcting for these effects. This theory of special relativity is also key to understanding how the universe was formed and how elementary particles such as neutrinos behave. Quantum physics is based on the fact that matter can behave as both as particles and as waves, at the same time. These new concepts are introduced through crucial historical observations. Light is described in terms of photons, which are emitted from atoms due to their quantum structure. Electrons can pass through materials by quantum tunneling, a phenomena which forms the basis of the technology in computer hard drives. Quantum physics is also required to understand nuclei, fission and fusion, and elementary particles such as neutrinos and the Higgs boson.