Natural Science 0206 - Modern Physics

Modern physics encompasses the major discoveries made in the early 20th century, which can be broadly divided isnto relativity and quantum mechanics. This course is a survey introduction to the special theory of relativity, the development of quantum theories of matter, light, and their interactions, and the application of these theories to atomic, nuclear, and solid state physics. The topics covered will include special-relativistic mechanics, the atomic structure of matter, black body radiation, photo-electric effect, particle-wave duality, Schrodinger equation in one and three dimensions, and electron spin. The course is essential for students intending to pursue advanced physics courses on these topics and would be of interest to science students who want to gain a basic understanding of the foundations of modern physics. Keywords: physics, modern physics, relativity, quantum

This course has prequisites: Physics I, Physics II. Students can generally expect to spend 6-8 hours on work a week outside of class time.