Quantum Mechanics and Special Relativity

Subject 640-214 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 2 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

Semester 1, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

Lectures, tutorials and practical laboratory classes.

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: Three 1-hour lectures per week (total 27 lectures); one 1-hour tutorial per week (total 9 classes); one 3-hour laboratory class per week (total 6 classes). Total 54 hours.
Total Time Commitment: 120 hours total time commitment.
Prerequisites: One of
  • Physics 1: Advanced
  • Physics 1
  • Physics 1: Fundamentals

Plus one of

  • Physics 2: Advanced
  • Physics 2: Physical Science and Technology
  • Physics 2: Life Sciences and Environment

Plus one of

  • Accelerated Mathematics 2 (620-158 Mathematics 2 prior to 2009)
  • Calculus 2

Plus one of

  • Accelerated Mathematics 1 (620-157 Mathematics 1 prior to 2009)
  • Linear Algebra (may be taken concurrently).
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: 640-223, 640-243.
Core Participation Requirements:

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable steps will be made to enhance a student’s participation in the University’s programs. This subject requires all students to actively and safely participate in laboratory activities. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their participation are encouraged to discuss this with the subject coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Coordinator

Prof Rachel Lindsey Webster
Subject Overview:

This subject introduces students to two key concepts in physics: quantum mechanics and Einstein’s theory of special relativity. Quantum mechanics topics include the quantum theory of light, the particle nature of matter, matter waves, quantum mechanics in one dimension and tunneling phenomena. Special relativity topics will include the foundations of special relativity, spacetime invariance, simultaneity, and Minkowski diagrams, relativistic kinematics, the Doppler effect, relativistic dynamics, and nuclear reactions.
Objectives:

To challenge students to expand their knowledge of fundamental physics principles and develop their capacity to:

  • discuss the key observations and events that led to the development of quantum mechanics and special relativity;
  • explain the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and special relativity and use these principles in the analysis of simple problems;
  • acquire and interpret experimental data and perform computer modelling.
Assessment:

Ongoing assessment of practical work during the semester including:

  • log-book record keeping and participation (10%)
  • a written report of up to 2,000 words (10%)

Satisfactory completion of practical work is necessary to pass the subject, including attendance and submission of work for at least 80% of workshop sessions, together with a result for assessed work of at least 50%.

  • One written test with a total duration of up to 30 minutes, held mid semester (5%)
  • Two written assignments requiring a total of up to 8 hours of work outside class time during the semester (10% in total)
  • A 3-hour written examination in the examination period (65%)
Prescribed Texts:

Serway, Moses and Moyer, Modern Physics 3rd edn, Brooks/Cole-Thomson Learning, 2005

E F Taylor and J A Wheeler, Spacetime Physics 2nd edn, Freeman
Breadth Options:

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

A student who completes this subject should be able to:

  • explain their understanding of physics principles and applications lucidly, both in writing and orally;
  • acquire and interpret experimental data and design experimental investigations;
  • participate as an effective member of a group in tutorial discussions, laboratory and study groups;
  • think independently and analytically, and direct his or her own learning;
  • manage time effectively in order to be prepared for regular practical and tutorial classes, tests, the examination and to complete assignments.
Notes: Students enrolled in the BSc (both pre-2008 and new degrees), BASc or a combined BSc course will receive science credit for the completion of this subject.

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