Modern Physics (PY 203)
PROF. T. SCHAEFER
Physics 203 (University Physics III, Modern Physics) provides an
introduction to basic concepts of modern physics intended for
undergraduate students majoring in physics or other mathematical
sciences. Subjects covered include special relativity and
quantum mechanics, as well as simple applications to atomic
physics, nuclear physics, and solid state physics. Prerequesites
PY201/202, MA 241.
- Lecture:
MW 1:30-2:45, RID 325 (Lecture)
F 1:30-2:45, RID 325 (Problem Session)
Instructor: T. Schaefer, Office RID 400F
email: Thomas_Schaefer[at]ncsu.edu
Office hours: MW. 3:00-4:00 and by appointment.
- Homework:
Most fridays a set of homework problems will be assigned.
We will use webassign, and you will have to purchase
a subscription (the ``premium'' subscription includes
an e-copy of the text book). The homework
is due friday the following week at 1:30pm (before
the problem session). No late homework will be
accepted.
- Lab
See the
lab website for information.
- Exams
There will be two midterm exams and a final.
- Grade
Your final grade will be determined by weighting the various
portions of the course as follows:
Midterms: 30%, Final: 30%, Homework: 30%, Lab: 10%
You are responsible for signing up for a Lab. You have to pass
the Lab in order to pass the course. Information on Lab grading
policies is available at http://courses.ncsu.edu/py203l/lec/201/
- Textbook
(required) Physics for Scientists and
by Engineers, Volume 3, P.A. Tipler and G. Mocsa, Publisher:
W. H. Freeman; 6th edition.
- Course Information: [pdf]
Handouts:
[The twin paradox]
[Transformation laws]
Links:
[Relativity
visualized]
[Spherical
Harmonics (Mathworld)]
[Spherical
Harmonics (Some nice plots)]
[LHC Rap]
[LHC Pictures]
Homework assignments will be posted on
webassign.
- Midterm Exam 1: Friday, September 25, 1:30-2:45.
Midterm 1 will cover special relativity (Ch. 39 of Tipler and Mocsy, HW 1
and 2).
Rules: Bring a pocket calculator. Closed book, no notes or other
materials. I will provide a sheet with formulas and numerical constant
(similar to this one).
Solution: [pdf]
- Midterm Exam 2: Friday, November 6, 1:30-2:45.
Midterm 1 will cover quantum mechanics, atomic physics, molecular
physics, and solid state physics (Ch. 34-38 of Tipler and Mocsy,
HW 3-8).
Rules: Bring a pocket calculator. Closed book, no notes or other
materials. I will provide a sheet with formulas and numerical constant
(similar to this one).
Solution: [pdf]
- Final: Wednesday, Decemeber 16, 1:00 - 4:00pm
Tfe final will cover relativity, quantum mechanics, atomic physics,
molecular physics, solid state physics and nuclear/particle physics
(Vol III of Tipler and Mocsy, HW 1-10).
Rules: Bring a pocket calculator. Closed book, no notes or other
materials. I will provide a sheet with formulas and numerical constant
(similar to this one).
Solution: [test,bonus]
Questions? Send email to
thomas_schaefer(at)ncsu_edu
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