PHY3055

This module is taken by BSc students in stage 3. It develops students' knowledge of electromagnetism, quantum mechanics and illustrates the aspects in common and relationships between the two areas. It builds on the Stage 2 core modules PHY2021 (Electromagnetism I) and PHY2022 (Quantum Mechanics I). The starting point is the Maxwell equations introduced in PHY2021, which are manipulated to obtain the electromagnetic wave equation and the form of the solutions.

The dielectric and magnetic properties of atoms and materials are considered from both a classical and quantum perspective, with emphasis on the frequency dependence of their real and imaginary components, and the consequences for wave propagation. Wave propagation at interfaces between dissimilar materials is considered, leading to derivation of Fresnel reflection and transmission coefficients. Methods of guiding electromagnetic waves of different frequency by transmission lines, waveguides and optical fibers are discussed and this knowledge, along with the theory of quantum transitions is used to understand maser and laser operation.

This is a core module for BSc Physics programmes and is supported by BSc Stage 3 tutorials.

The module aims to develop students' understanding of quantum mechanics and Maxwell's equations and their applications including some advanced topics, fomalism and applications to the point where they will be able to engage with contemporary research literature. Students will gain an in-depth understanding number of interesting physical phenomena that are important in a wide variety of areas and in many key technologies.

1. describe the fundamental aspects of electromagnetism;
2. explain and solve problems involving the magnetic and/or dielectric properties of materials;
3. explain some aspects of the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter;
4. calculate the effect of such interactions using appropriate vector mathematics;
5. solve problems requiring application of Maxwell's equations to a variety of situations as outlined in the syllabus below;
6. formulate, and evaluate, the solutions to a variety of perturbed and multi-electron quantum mechanical systems;
7. calculate energy shifts, transition probabilities (and rates) and cross-sections;

8. use vector analysis to solve problems in science and engineering;
9. use matrix concepts to solve QM problems;
10. use mathematics to solve problems;
11. present and defend their solutions to problems to their tutorial group;

12. develop and present a coherent solution to a problem;
13. self-evaluate, check and correct solutions to problems;
14. undertake co-operative learning by discussing the contents of the module amongst themselves;
15. make informal presentations of technical material;
16. work independently in order to meet deadlines.

• Griffiths D.J. (2014), Introduction to Electrodynamics (4^th edition), Pearson Education, ISBN 978-0-321-85656-2 (UL: 537.6 GRI)
• Rae A.I.M. (2007), Quantum Mechanics (5^th edition), Chapman and Hal, ISBN 1-584-88970-5 (UL: 530.12 RAE)

• Eisberg R.M. and Resnick R. (1974), Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles, Wiley, ISBN 0-471-23464-8 (UL: 530.12 EIS)
• Kittel C. (2005), Introduction to Solid State Physics (8^th edition), Wiley, ISBN 978-0-471-41526-8 (UL: 530.41 KIT)
• McMurry S.M. (1994), Quantum Mechanics, Addison Wesley, ISBN 0-201-54439-3 (UL: 530.12 MCM)
• Open University Science Foundation Course Team (1988), Quantum Mechanics: An introduction, Open University (UL: 500 OPE/X)
• Open University SM355 Course Team (1986), Quantum Mechanics: Units 12-14, Open University (UL: 530.12 OPE/X)
• Open University SM355 Course Team (1986), Quantum Mechanics: Units 15-16, Open University (UL: 530.12 OPE/X)
• Park D. (1974), Introduction to the Quantum Theory (2^nd edition), McGraw-Hill (UL: 530.12 PAR)
• Pauling L. and Wilson E.B. (1935), Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, McGraw-Hill (UL: 530.12 PAU)
• Reitz J.R., Milford F.J. and Christy R.W. (1993), Foundations of Electromagnetic Theory (4^th edition), Addison-Wesley, ISBN 0-201-52624-7 (UL: 530.141 REI)

• http://newton.ex.ac.uk/redirects/ELE/phy3051