PHY3145 Topics in Theoretical Physics

2007-2008

Code: PHY3145
Title: 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)

Aims

This 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 Outcomes

After completing this module, the student should be able to:

Module Specific Skills

• describe the fundamental principles involved and explain how these can be developed to provide an interpretation of phenomena;
• solve problems requiring the application of theoretical techniques within the scope of the syllabus;

Discipline Specific Skills

• define appropriate theoretical parameters and identify their relevance to physical processes;
• apply logical reasoning;

Personal and Key Skills

• work independently and in small groups.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Lectures (20×1hr), handouts, directed reading of relevant research papers and review articles, problems classes (2×1hr).

Assignments

Problems sheets

Assessment

One 90-minute examination (100%).

Syllabus Plan and Content

1. Relativistic quantum mechanics and its applications (5 lectures)
   Klein-Gordon equation; Dirac equation; concept of positrons; charge conjugation operator; Feynman's interpretation; applications.
2. Topics related to astrophysics (5 lectures)
   Astrophysical radiation processes: relativistic beaming, bremsstrahlung, cyclotron and synchrotron radiation.
3. Gauge theory and its applications (5 lectures)
   Gauge transformations of 1st- and 2nd-kinds; gauge invariance; Aharonov-Bohm effect; Berry phase; superconducting quantum interference devices.
4. Many-body theory and its applications (5 lectures)
   Classical many-body theory; many-body hamiltonian; the adiabatic approximation; Hartree equation; Hartree-Fock equation; Kohn-Sham equation; density-functional theory; self-energy operator.

Core Text

Not applicable

Supplementary Text(s)

Feynman R.P., Leighton R.B. and Sands M. (1963), Lectures on Physics, Vol. II, Addison-Wesley, ISBN 0-201-02117-X (UL: 530 FEY/X)
Goldstein H., Poole C. and Safko J. (2002), Classical Mechanics (3^rd edition), Addison Wesley, ISBN 0-201-65702-3 (UL: 531 GOL)
Griffiths D.J. (1999), Introduction to Electrodynamics (3^rd edition), Prentice Hall, ISBN 0-13-805326-X (UL: 537 GRI)
Inkson J.C. (1984), Many Body Theory of Solids, Plenum, ISBN 0-306-41326-4 (UL: 530.144 INK)
Longair M. (1992), High Energy Astrophysics: Particles, Photons and Their Detection, Vol. I (2^nd edition), Cambridge University Press, ISBN 0-521-38773-6 (UL: 523.01 LON)
Longair M. (1994), High Energy Astrophysics: Stars, the Galaxy and the Interstellar Medium, Vol. II (2^nd edition), Cambridge University Press, ISBN 0-521-43584-6 (UL: 523.01 LON)
Rybicki G. and Lightman A.P. (1985), Radiative Processes in Astrophysics, Wiley Interscience, ISBN 0-471-82759-2 (UL: 523.01 RYB)
Schiff L.I. (1968), Quantum mechanics (3^rd edition), McGraw-Hill, ISBN 0-070-55287-8 (UL: 530.12 SCH)
Spitzer L. (1998), Physical processes in the Interstellar Medium, Wiley Classics, ISBN 0-471-29335-0 (UL: To be ordered)
Srivastava G.P. (1999), Theoretical Modelling of Semiconductor Surfaces, World Scientific, ISBN 9-810-23306-X (UL: Ordered 30.8.05)

Formative Mechanisms

Students are able to monitor their own progress by attempting problems sheets provided in the lectures. Students with specific problems should approach the lecturer.

Evaluation Mechanisms

The 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.