| PHY3068 |
Principles of Theoretical Physics |
2013-14 |
|
Dr A.V. Shytov |
|
| |
| Delivery Weeks: |
T2:01-11 |
|
| Level: |
6 (NQF) |
|
| Credits: |
15 NICATS / 7.5 ECTS |
|
| Enrolment: |
11 students (approx) |
|
Description
This module reviews the most important concepts of theoretical physics, in particular: the
action, symmetries, and conservation laws. It shows how they help physicists to think about
seemingly disconnected topics, ranging from mechanics to quantum field theory. The module is
recommended as an option for students who wish to specialise in theoretical physics, and who are
intending to take level 7 theory option(s), such as PHYM013
Quantum Many-Body Theory. The topics covered will be also of interest to the
students who want to understand the language of theoretical physics without making it their field
of research.
Module Aims
Theoretical physics aims to organise our knowledge about the physical world using a compact set of
principles that are expressed mathematically.
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
A student who has passed this module should be able to:
-
Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
- use symmetry principles to determine the form of the action of a physical system;
- derive equations of motion and conservation laws using the action;
- apply the concept of energy-stress tensor to a range of problems;
- describe the relation between least-action principle in classical theory and path integral approach in quantum theory;
- solve quantum-mechanical problems involving magnetic field;
- use the semiclassical approximation in quantum mechanics to solve problems;
-
Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
- apply the ideas and approaches of theoretical physics to a wide range of problems;
-
Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
- devise a well-structured solution with clearly explained reasoning;
- use a range of resources in order to learn through independent study.
Syllabus Plan
-
Analytical dynamics
least action principle, Euler-Lagrange equations, symmetries, Noether's theorem, conservation laws.
-
Relativistic mechanics
geometry of space time, Lorentz symmetry, action, equations of motion, particle in external fields, scalar and vector potentials.
-
Classical field theory
scalar field, its action and conservation laws, sound waves in gases and solids as an example.
-
Electromagnetic Fields
Electromagnetic field tensor, action for electromagnetic field, Maxwell's equations, gauge invariance and charge conservation.
Electromechanical analogy and the effective action.
-
Quantum theory
Schrödinger equation and its Green function, Heisenberg representation, path integral formulation
of quantum mechanics, path integral treatment of quantum harmonic oscillator
-
Semiclassical Methods
Semiclassical approximation in quantum mechanics, the saddle point method.
-
Electromagnetic fields in quantum theory
Gauge invariance, Aharonov-Bohm effect, Landau levels
-
Introduction to Quantum Field Theory
Interactions mediated by virtual particles
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 |
| 5×6-hour self-study packages |
30 hours
|
GIS |
| 4×4-hour problem sets |
16 hours
|
GIS |
| Reading, private study and revision |
82 hours
|
GIS |
Assessment
| Weight |
Form |
Size |
When |
ILOS assessed |
Feedback |
| 0% |
Guided self-study |
5×6-hour packages |
Fortnightly |
1-9 |
Discussion in class |
| 0% |
4 × Problems sets |
4 hours per set |
Fortnightly |
1-9 |
Solutions discussed in problems classes. |
| 100% |
Final Examination |
2 hours 30 minutes |
May/June |
1-8 |
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:
-
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)
-
Feynman R.P. and Hibbs A.R. (1965), Quantum Mechanics and Path Integrals, McGraw Hill, ISBN 0-07-020650-3 (UL: 530.12 FEY)
-
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)
-
Jackson J.D. (1998), Classical Electrodynamics (3rd edition), Wiley, ISBN 0-471-30932-X (UL: 537.6 JAC)
-
Landau L.D. and Lifshitz E.M. (1975), Classical Theory of Fields (Vol. 2) (4th edition), Butterworth-Heinemann, ISBN 978-0-750-62768-9 (UL: 530.141 LAN)
-
Landau L.D. and Lifshitz E.M. (1976), Mechanics (Vol. 1) (3rd edition), Butterworth-Heinemann, ISBN 978-0-750-62896-9 (UL: 531 LAN)
-
Schiff L.I. (1968), Quantum mechanics (3rd edition), McGraw-Hill, ISBN 0-070-55287-8 (UL: 530.12 SCH)
-
Schwinger J., Deraad L.L., Milton K.A., Tsai W. and Norton J. (1998), Classical Electrodynamics, Perseus Books, ISBN 9-780-738200-56-9 (UL: On order)
-
Ziman J.M. (1969), Elements of Advanced Quantum Theory, Cambridge University Press, ISBN 521-07458-4 (UL: 530.12 ZIM)
ELE:
Further Information
Prior Knowledge Requirements
| Pre-requisite Modules |
Quantum Mechanics I (PHY2022) and Electromagnetism II (PHY3051) |
| 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%) |
1-8 |
August/September assessment period |
Notes: See Physics Assessment Conventions.
KIS Data Summary
| Learning activities and teaching methods |
|---|
| SLT - scheduled learning & teaching activities |
22 hrs |
| GIS - guided independent study |
128 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 |
- N/A this is an optional module
|
| Availability |
unrestricted |
| Distance learning |
NO |
| Keywords |
Physics; Fields; Quantum; Action; Equations; Electromagnetic; Theory;
Conservation; Principles; Mechanics; Scalar. |
| Created |
01-Oct-10 |
| Revised |
N/A |
