400

Presentations by students discussing topics in physics. Counted once for the physics credit hour requirements.

Tensor calculus approach to relativistic kinematics, dynamics, optics, electrodynamics, and selected applied topics.

Applied methods including cartesian and non-cartesian vector and tensor analysis, complex numbers and functions, linear algebra, vectors and coordinate transforms, eigenvectors and eigenvalues, infinite series, multiple integrals, Jacobians, Green's Theorem, Divergence Theorem, Stoke's Theorem and Fourier Series.

Applied methods including Fourier and Laplace transforms, partial differential equations, boundary value problems, special functions, Green's functions, and functions of a complex variable.

Concept of wave-particle duality, Schroedinger's wave equation with applications to potential problems, to the hydrogen atom, and to atomic spectra; perturbation theory, and spin-orbit interaction.

Crystal structure, conduction theory, binding and energy levels and other properties of conductors, semiconductors, dielectrics, and magnetics.

The course will be devoted to the study of waves and its applications in different fields of physics. The principal objective is to develop an understanding of basic wave concepts and of their relations with one another. Readings and discussions on topics such as free and forced oscillations, superposition principle, traveling and standing waves, modulations, pulses, wave packets, bandwidth, coherence time and polarization, will serve to reach the proposed goal. Applications of different physical systems as water waves, sound waves, light waves, transmission lines, quantum waves, etc. will be illustrated through interesting examples.

Numerical and computational techniques for solving a wide variety of problems in physics and engineering. Various methods for solving ordinary and partial differential equations describing mechanical oscillators (both periodic and chaotic), electrical and magnetic fields, and quantum mechanical wave functions will be explored. Students will be introduced to MATLAB, and some projects will be run in EXCEL. Familiarity with the physical systems involved is not a prerequisite. If time permits, Monte-Carlo methods will also be explored.

Readings and discussion on the measurement process in quantum mechanics. Entangled states, Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox, Bell's inequality, quantum encryption and quantum computation. Experimental techniques. Philosophical issues raised by quantum theory.

Students explore advanced experimental techniques progressing through introductory stages to applications, devoting two to four weeks to each chosen topic. Student interest accommodated in topics (and respective applications) such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (Magnetic Resonance Imaging-MRI), X-Ray Techniques (crystallography/elemental analysis/medical imaging), Hall effect and related techniques (semiconductor characterization/Giant Magneto Resistive computer disc readers, etc.), and Magnetization measurements (data storage/electrical and mechanical power conversion/geological surveying/bird and insect navigation, etc.).

Independent work on a theoretical or experimental topic under the supervision of a faculty member.

Theoretical or experimental research under the supervision of a faculty member.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Area not covered in regular courses. Broad range of topics consistent with teaching and research interests of department.

Students enrolled serve as laboratory assistants under faculty supervision. Approval to register must be obtained from department. Three hours of work per week are expected for each hour of credit elected. Course may be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours applicable toward fulfillment of physics or mathematics-physics major's supporting course requirements. (A major in physics or mathematics-physics is not a prerequisite.)

Research project culminating in a thesis. In most cases a full year of work will be required to complete both project and thesis.