PHY3055 |
Electromagnetism and Quantum Mechanics |
2025-26 |
|
Dr E. Mariani |
|
|
Delivery Weeks: |
T1:01-11 |
|
Level: |
6 (NQF) |
|
Credits: |
15 NICATS / 7.5 ECTS |
|
Enrolment: |
60 students (approx) |
|
Description
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.
Module Aims
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.
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
A student who has passed this module should be able to:
-
Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
- describe the fundamental aspects of electromagnetism;
- explain and solve problems involving the magnetic and/or dielectric properties of materials;
- explain some aspects of the interaction of electromagnetic
radiation with matter;
- calculate the effect of such interactions using
appropriate vector mathematics;
- solve problems requiring application of Maxwell's equations to a
variety of situations as outlined in the syllabus below;
- formulate, and evaluate, the solutions to a variety of perturbed
and multi-electron quantum mechanical systems;
- calculate energy shifts, transition probabilities
(and rates) and cross-sections;
-
Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
- use vector analysis to solve problems in science and engineering;
- use matrix concepts to solve QM problems;
- use mathematics to solve problems;
- present and defend their solutions to problems to their tutorial group;
-
Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
- develop and present a coherent solution to a problem;
- self-evaluate, check and correct solutions to problems;
- undertake co-operative learning by discussing the contents of the module
amongst themselves;
- make informal presentations of technical material;
- work independently in order to meet deadlines.
Syllabus Plan
-
ELECTROMAGNETISM
- Maxwell's Equations and Electromagnetic Waves
- Maxwell's equations for the electromagnetic field and constitutive equations
- The equation of continuity
- Electromagnetic plane waves in an insulating isotropic medium
- Polarization, momentum and energy, the Poynting vector
- Scalar and vector potentials
- Gauge invariance, the Coulomb and Lorentz gauges
- Electromagnetic materials
- Classical description of atomic polarisability, dispersion
- Metals and the skin effect
- Diamagnetism, paramagnetism and ferromagnetics: general concepts
- Langevin (classical) theory of paramagnetism and electron paramagnetism
-
M–B loops
- Electromagnetic waves at boundaries and guiding waves
- Examples of metallic waveguides: cylindrical, rectangular
- Coaxial cables and distributed impedance: the Telegrapher's equations
- Fresnel's equations and their optical consequences
-
QUANTUM MECHANICS
- Heisenberg's Approach to Quantum Mechanics
- Matrix elements for a quantum harmonic oscillator
- Electron spin and Pauli matrices
- Few-Particle Systems
- Bose and Fermi particles, the Pauli principle
- Two-electron system: spin addition and exchange interaction
- Structure of Many-Electron Atoms
- Electron shells
- Hund's rules,
- The role of spin-orbit interaction
- LS coupling scheme.
- Zeeman effect in many-electron atoms
- Quantum Transitions
- Perturbation theory
- Fermi's golden rule formula
- Rate of spontaneous emission
- The ruby laser
Learning and Teaching
Learning Activities and Teaching Methods
Description |
Study time |
KIS type |
20×1-hour lectures |
20 hours
|
SLT |
2×1-hour problems/revision classes |
2 hours
|
SLT |
3×1-hour tutorials
|
3 hours
|
SLT |
5×6-hour self-study packages |
30 hours
|
GIS |
4×4-hour problem sets |
16 hours
|
GIS |
Reading, private study and revision |
79 hours
|
GIS |
Assessment
Weight |
Form |
Size |
When |
ILOS assessed |
Feedback |
0% |
Guided self-study |
5×6-hour packages |
Fortnightly |
1-10 |
Discussion in tutorials
|
0% |
4 × Problems sets |
4 hours per set |
Fortnightly |
1-10 |
Solutions discussed in problems classes. |
100% |
Final Examination |
2 hours 30 minutes |
January |
1-10 |
Mark via MyExeter, collective feedback via ELE and solutions. |
Resources
The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of information that
students are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Instructor(s).
Core text:
Supplementary texts:
-
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 (8th 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 (2nd 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 (4th edition), Addison-Wesley, ISBN 0-201-52624-7 (UL: 530.141 REI)
ELE:
Further Information
Prior Knowledge Requirements
Pre-requisite Modules |
Electromagnetism I (PHY2021) and Quantum Mechanics I (PHY2022) |
Co-requisite Modules |
none |
Re-assessment
Re-assessment is not available except when required by referral or deferral.
Original form of assessment |
Form of re-assessment |
ILOs re-assessed |
Time scale for re-assessment |
Whole module |
Written examination (100%) |
1-10 |
August/September assessment period |
Notes: See Physics Assessment Conventions.
KIS Data Summary
Learning activities and teaching methods |
SLT - scheduled learning & teaching activities |
25 hrs |
GIS - guided independent study |
125 hrs |
PLS - placement/study abroad |
0 hrs |
Total |
150 hrs |
|
|
Summative assessment |
Coursework |
0% |
Written exams |
100% |
Practical exams |
0% |
Total |
100% |
|
Miscellaneous
IoP Accreditation Checklist |
- EM-04 Maxwell's equations and plane electromagnetic wave solution; Poynting vector
- EM-06 Polarisation of waves and behaviour at plane interfaces
- QM-05 Wave function and its interpretation
- QM-06 Standard solutions and quantum numbers to the level of the hydrogen atom
- QM-09 Quantum structure and spectra of simple atoms
- QM-12 Pauli exclusion principle, fermions and bosons and elementary particles
- SS-07 Magnetic properties of matter
|
Availability |
BSc only |
Distance learning |
NO |
Keywords |
Physics; Maxwell's equations; Electromagnetic fields; Radiation; Properties of matter; Waves;
Dirac notation; Energy; Eigenvalues; Eigenstates; Atomic structure; Observables; Particles;
Perturbation theory; Quantum mechanics; Schrödinger equation; Time. |
Created |
15-Jun-19 |
Revised |
03-Aug-20 |