PHY3145 Topics in Theoretical Physics
2010-2011
Code: PHY3145
Level: 3
Title: Topics in Theoretical Physics
Instructors:
Prof. G.P. Srivastava
CATS Credit Value: 10
ECTS Credit Value: 5
Pre-requisites: N/A
Co-requisites: N/A
Duration:
M1-M11
Availability: unrestricted
Background Assumed: -
Directed Study Time: 22 lectures
Private Study Time: 78 hours
Assessment Tasks Time: -
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 / 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
- Relativistic quantum mechanics and its applications (5 lectures)
Klein-Gordon equation; Dirac equation; concept of positrons;
charge conjugation operator; Feynman's interpretation; applications.
- Elements of field theories (5 lectures)
Concept of classical and quantum fields. Lagrangian density,
Hamiltonian density, and energy density. Quantisation of elastic or
lattice waves, electromagnetic field, and electron waves in
solids. Examples will include at least two of the following: coupled
oscillators on a linear chain; radiation field; Schrodinger equation;
Klein-Gordon equation; phonon-impurity scattering; electron-phonon
interaction.
- 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.
- 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 (
3rd edition),
Addison Wesley,
ISBN 0-201-65702-3 (UL:
531 GOL)
Griffiths D.J. (
1999),
Introduction to Electrodynamics (
3rd 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)
Schiff L.I. (
1968),
Quantum mechanics (
3rd edition),
McGraw-Hill,
ISBN 0-070-55287-8 (UL:
530.12 SCH)
Srivastava G.P. (
1999),
Theoretical Modelling of Semiconductor Surfaces,
World Scientific,
ISBN 9-810-23306-X (UL:
537.622 SRI)
Ziman J.M. (
1969),
Elements of Advanced Quantum Theory,
Cambridge University Press,
ISBN 521-07458-4 (UL:
530.12 ZIM)
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.