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PHY3145 Topics in Theoretical Physics2007-2008Code: PHY3145Title: Topics in Theoretical Physics Instructors: Prof. G.P. Srivastava and Dr J. Hatchell CATS credits: 10 ECTS credits: 5 Availability: unrestricted Level: 3 Pre-requisites: N/A Co-requisites: N/A Background Assumed: - Duration: Semester I Directed Study Time: 22 lectures Private Study Time: 78 hours Assessment Tasks Time: - Observation report: 2001/02 PGP (MRB) & 2003/4 ASP (GPS) AimsThis module discusses some advanced topics in theoretical physics. The student will gain insight into the background of topics in relativistic quantum mechanics, astrophysics, gauge theory, and condensed matter physics. The module will introduce important new concepts relevant to these areas and show how these can be developed to provide understanding of physical phenomena and processes. The approaches adopted will illustrate some of the skills required when pursuing theoretical research. Intended Learning OutcomesAfter completing this module, the student should be able to: Module Specific Skills
Discipline Specific Skills
Personal and Key Skills
Learning and Teaching MethodsLectures (20×1hr), handouts, directed reading of relevant research papers and review articles, problems classes (2×1hr). AssignmentsProblems sheets AssessmentOne 90-minute examination (100%). Syllabus Plan and Content
Core TextNot applicableSupplementary Text(s)(1963), Lectures on Physics, Vol. II, Addison-Wesley, ISBN 0-201-02117-X (UL: 530 FEY/X)(2002), Classical Mechanics (3rd edition), Addison Wesley, ISBN 0-201-65702-3 (UL: 531 GOL) (1999), Introduction to Electrodynamics (3rd edition), Prentice Hall, ISBN 0-13-805326-X (UL: 537 GRI) (1984), Many Body Theory of Solids, Plenum, ISBN 0-306-41326-4 (UL: 530.144 INK) (1992), High Energy Astrophysics: Particles, Photons and Their Detection, Vol. I (2nd edition), Cambridge University Press, ISBN 0-521-38773-6 (UL: 523.01 LON) (1994), High Energy Astrophysics: Stars, the Galaxy and the Interstellar Medium, Vol. II (2nd edition), Cambridge University Press, ISBN 0-521-43584-6 (UL: 523.01 LON) (1985), Radiative Processes in Astrophysics, Wiley Interscience, ISBN 0-471-82759-2 (UL: 523.01 RYB) (1968), Quantum mechanics (3rd edition), McGraw-Hill, ISBN 0-070-55287-8 (UL: 530.12 SCH) (1998), Physical processes in the Interstellar Medium, Wiley Classics, ISBN 0-471-29335-0 (UL: To be ordered) (1999), Theoretical Modelling of Semiconductor Surfaces, World Scientific, ISBN 9-810-23306-X (UL: Ordered 30.8.05) Formative MechanismsStudents are able to monitor their own progress by attempting problems sheets provided in the lectures. Students with specific problems should approach the lecturer. Evaluation MechanismsThe module will be evaluated using information gathered via the student representation mechanisms, the staff peer appraisal scheme, and measures of student attainment based on summative assessment. |