University of Zambia: Physics Handbook 2009
University of Zambia: Physics Handbook 2009
University of Zambia: Physics Handbook 2009
There seems to be little knowledge among students in the School of Natural Sciences at the
University of Zambia of physics-based study programs, and the job prospects associated with them.
Students in the School frequently have trouble making the right career choices. Many of them have
already fixed their minds on proceeding to fields like Engineering, Medicine, and Agricultural
Sciences. The result is that at the end of their first year in Natural Sciences, most of the good
students leave. Little are they aware that the School, and the Department of Physics in particular,
offers some exciting study programs and future prospects to students that many faculties in the
university cannot match. It is necessary to counteract this ignorance among students if the situation is
to be rectified.
This handbook provides information on the various undergraduate and graduate programs available
in the Department of Physics, and the job opportunities associated with these specialisations. This
will provide students with the data necessary for them to be able to make informed and wise
decisions about the kind of career for them, even as they seek to satisfy their academic interests.
This handbook highlights the various academic and professional opportunities on offer in the
Department of Physics. Over the years the Department has diversified its offerings, so that in addition
to the traditional areas of Solid State Physics, Nuclear Physics, Theoretical Physics and Electronics,
students can take courses in the new fields of Energy and the Environment, Computational Physics
and Applied Optics. Major changes have been made to the undergraduate curriculum in order to
adapt to the newly-introduced semester system; in the process the courses have been completely
overhauled. As well, new courses have been introduced, and this has resulted in the Physics degree
becoming more flexible and attractive. In consequence, Physics graduates now have a wider variety
of job prospects.
For those students who would like careers in academia and research, there are exciting academic
programs and research activities in Solid State Physics (now being popularly referred to as
Condensed Matter Physics), Nuclear Physics, Computational Physics, Electronics, Energy and
Environment, and others. Graduates in these fields are employed in very diverse professions ranging
from lecturing and teaching to research. Some have gone into instrumentation in industry, while
others are working in the IT/ICT field. The training in the Department is such that graduates are
successful in the job market. No one ends up being unemployed.
Special notice of first years is in order. They are enjoined to consider pursuing one of the
departmental specialisations. They are encouraged to think hard about the exciting academic
challenges and opportunities in the Department of Physics. Their path in the Department of Physics
is assisted if they opt for the physical sciences stream during the streaming exercise in the second
semester.
Second years should take note of the four different B.Sc. degree programs to choose from. These
should be scrutinised carefully for the purpose of identifying the particular one that suits the career
intentions of the student.
It is hoped that the third and final year-students are getting ready to put the skills they have acquired
to successful use in the outside world.
The vision of the Department of Physics has always been to produce physics graduates who will play
key roles in both the public and private sectors of the Zambian economy. It is the hope of the
Department that it has lived up to this lofty aim.
Whether the student chooses Physics or not, the ball is in his or her court. The Department wishes
every student success in his or her university endeavours. Good luck!
Head of Department
2009
Theoretical Physics: This is an option offered to those who have a stronger interest in the academic
side of Physics and offers a high degree of intellectual stimulation. Students taking it may wish to
pursue an academic career after graduation. However, they will still be in demand in the job market.
Such organisations as the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR), the
Environmental Council of Zambia, the Radiation Protection Board (at the University Teaching
Hospital), the Zambia Bureau of Standards, the Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines, Chilanga
Cement, and TAP Building Products are interested in such graduates.
Energy and Environmental Physics: This will bring students in touch with some of the most
challenging developmental problems and issues of our time. In this specialisation, students are taught
the fundamentals and applications of solar energy, as well about the other renewable sources of
energy: wind, biomass, and hydroelectricity. The courses provide an introduction to the very topical
environmental problems of global warming and ozone depletion. The organisations interested in
graduates in this discipline include the Energy Department, the Environmental Council of Zambia, the
Ministry of Environment, the Department of Meteorology, and the National Institute for Scientific and
Industrial Research (NISIR).
Applied Optics: This course is yet another new offering. Applications of optics have grown at a
phenomenal pace in recent decades. Optical fibre technology has ushered in the age of fast
communications. Lasers are now widely used in industry, computers, medicine, scientific research,
and in home entertainment. Holography, one of the branches of optics, is used in producing threedimensional images, in non-destructive testing, and in information storage. The optics course at
fourth-year level teaches the fundamentals of these exciting developments.
The reorganisation of the courses offered by the Department went hand in hand with a review of the
teaching and examination policy. As a result of these improvements, substantially better student
performance in examinations is being recorded.
Recently, collaboration with certain South African universities has opened up opportunities for
Physics graduates. In particular, graduates with good grades have a chance to do an extra year of
study in Astrophysics at the University of Cape Town (South Africa) in order to qualify for an Honours
degree. Thereafter, they can pursue a Masters degree in Astrophysics, and if they wish they can go
on to do a Ph.D. Such a qualification gives the students international marketability, and the chance to
participate in the exciting developments currently going on in the field of Cosmology.
Collaboration with the University of Cape Town in the field of climate change, and with Ben Gurion
University (Israel) in the field of solar energy has enabled some physics graduates to embark on
Masters degree programmes with the possibility of a Ph.D. later.
Research projects are also an essential component of the physics programme. They are sometimes
mandatory in order for a student to fulfil the requirements for the award of the B.Sc. degree. The
Department therefore offers a variety of exciting final year undergraduate research projects. Through
the various research groups, Physics students can undertake research in solar energy materials. In
addition, the Department offers research experiments in solar radiation measurements on photovoltaic (PV) modules and the design and construction of instruments like temperature controllers,
inverters and charge controllers. Also on offer is very challenging computer interface research work
involving applications of electronics and computational physics. The nuclear physics laboratory offers
work in energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) experiments in elemental sample analysis. These
and many more make the Physics Department quite unique in the provision of real academic activity.
Finally, it is worth stressing again that graduates of the Department of Physics have not had problems
with getting into employment because of the applied nature of the degree programmes.
As can be gathered from what has been said above, the Physics Department offers very exciting
opportunities for students. Students opting to join the Department are assured of both intellectual
stimulation and job marketability when they graduate.
Students considering joining the Department should see the Head
any member of academic staff for further information.
of
Department or indeed
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS
Main Office, Room 523
Academic Staff
Head of Department
and Senior Lecturer
Qualifications
Extension
Mweene, H. V.
Professor
Jain, P. C.
Associate Professor
Kaloyerou, P. N.
Senior Lecturer
Hussain, M. M.
Lecturer I
Chishimba, G. M.
Kalebwe, P. C.
Munyeme, G.
Lecturer II
Habanyama, A.
Hansingo, K
Hatwaambo, S.
Mbewe, D. J.
Mwiinga, N
Rajan, R.
Lecturer III
Mudenda, S.
B.Sc.(UNZA), M.Sc.(WesternCape)
SDF
Mulindwa, L.
Banda, Y.
Mwalaba, M
Mwalaba, M
Pumulo, N
Wamunyima, N
B.Sc.(UNZA), Dip.(ICTP)
B.Sc.(UNZA),
B.Sc.(UNZA),
B.Sc.(UNZA),
B.Sc.(UNZA),
B.Sc.(UNZA),
Secretarial Staff
Chindefu, V.
Secretary
Extension: 2514
Technical Staff
Wazili, D.
Changwe, B. C.
Mbewe, B.
Chibwe, W.
Musa, K. C.
Musonda, F. L.
Mushoke, D. S.
Chinyama, M.
Bundala, E.
Mwansa, G.
Chief Technician
Senior Technician
Senior Technician
Senior Technician
Technician I
Technician II
Technician II
Technician II
Technician II
Technician II
Chief Technician
Senior Technician
Technician I
Technician II
Carpenter II
Carpenter II
Overview of Programmes
The Department of Physics is currently offering the following courses to students pursuing a degree
in Physics. Depending on circumstances, a given course may not be available in a given year.
Students are advised to check with the Department before registering for a given course. Some of
the courses have an associated laboratory course. Normally, the grading of a course has a
continuous assessment (C.A.) component and a final-examination component. The laboratory
course marks are incorporated into the continuous assessment. Below is the full list of courses
offered by the department together with the division of marks between continuous assessment and
the final examination. It is important for students to understand that where a course has a laboratory
component associated with it, the student has to pass this independently of the theory, with a
minimum mark of 40%.
Course Code
Course Name
Assessment %
Exam.
C.A.
P191
P192
P198
Introductory Physics-I
Introductory Physics-IIA or
Introductory Physics-IIB
50
50
50
50
50
50
P251
P252
P261
P212
P231
P272
Classical Mechanics I
Classical Mechanics II & Special Relativity
Electricity & Magnetism
Atomic Physics
Properties of Matter & Thermal Physics
Optics
60
60
60
60
60
60
40
40
40
40
40
40
P302
P332
P341
P342
P351
P361
Computational Physics I
Statistical and Thermal Physics
Introduction to Electronics
Digital Electronics I
Quantum Mechanics I
Electromagnetic Theory
50
60
50
50
60
60
50
40
50
50
40
40
P401
P411
P412
P421
P422
P441
P442
P455
P452
P475
P485
Computational Physics II
Nuclear Experimental Techniques
Nuclear Physics
Solid State Physics I
Solid State Physics II
Analogue Electronics
Digital Electronics II
Quantum Mechanics II
Selected Topics in Theoretical Physics
Applied Optics
Physics of Renewable Energy
Resources and Environment
Special Project
Mathematical Methods for Physics
50
60
60
60
60
50
50
70
70
60
60
50
40
40
40
40
50
50
30
30
40
40
50
70
50
30
P495
MP415
or
S.S.Major
Phys/Maths
Chem/Phys(minor)
Phys/Geology
Year 2:
M211/212
P251/252
P261/212
P231/272
M211/212
M221/222
P251/252
P261/212
M211/212
C205/265
C251/252
P261/212
M211/212
P251/252
P261/212
GG201/202
Year 3:
M911/912
P351/302
P361/332
P341/342
M911/912
M261/292
P351/302
P231/272 or
P341/342
P251/252
C341/342
C361/362
C351/352 or
C321/322
P231/272
P341/342
SE481
GG311/312
GG335
Year 4:
MP415
P411 and/or
P421
M335/325
M411/412
P361/302 or
P341/342
C461/462
P361
GG435
GG442
GG551
GG581
+ 4/5 from
+ 2 from
+ 4 from
+ 3 from
P401
P411/412
P421/422
P441/442
P455
P452
P475
P485
P495
P361/332
P401/455
P401/485
or
P361/332
P411/412
P441/442
P401/485
P401/455
C421/422
C441/442
C451/452
C481/482
C491/492
P332
P441
P442
Second Semester:
Option A
or
BIO1012
C102
M112
P192
Systems Biology
Introduction to Chemistry II
Mathematical Methods IIA
Introductory Physics IIA
Option B
C102
M114
P198
Introduction to Chemistry II
Mathematical Methods IIB
Introductory Physics IIB
M211
P251
P261
P231
Semester II
M212
P252
P212
P272
Mathematical Methods IV
Class. Mech. II & Special
Relativity
Atomic Physics
Optics
Semester II
M912
P302
P332
P342
Mathematical Methods VI
Computational Physics I
Statistical and Thermal Physics
Digital Electronics I
Third Year:
Semester I
M911
P351
P361
P341
Mathematical Methods V
Quantum Mechanics I
Electromagnetic Theory
Introduction to Electronics
Fourth Year:
Semester I
M411
or
Any 1 or 2
courses
from:
Theory of Functions.
of Complex Vars. I
Math. Methods for Physics
Nuclear Exptl. Techniques
Semester II
M412
P401
P411
Computational Physics II
Nuclear Exptl. Techniques
(not required
plus 3
from:
plus 4
from:
P412
P422
P442
P421
P485
P441
Analogue Electronics
P475
MP415
P411
and/or
P421
Th. of Functions of
Complex Variables II
if MP415 is offered )
( if M411/M412 are offered )
( if MP415 is offered )
Nuclear Physics
Solid State Physics II
Digital Electronics II
Phy. of Ren. Energy Res. &
Environment
Applied Optics
Quantum Mechanics II
P455
P452
P495
Semester II
M212
M222
P252
P261
P212
Mathematical Methods IV
Linear Algebra II
Class. Mech. II & Sp.
Relativity
Atomic Physics
Semester II
M912
M292
P302
P272
Mathematical Methods VI
Intro to Probability
Computational Physics I
Optics
P342
Digital Electronics I
Third Year:
Either
Or
Semester I
M911
M261
P351
P231
P341
Mathematical Methods V
Intro to Statistics
Quantum Mechanics I
Prop. of Matter &
Thermal Physics
Introduction to Electronics
Fourth Year:
Semester I
M411
Semester II
Theory of Functions of
Complex Vars. I
Topology
M412
Electromagnetic Theory
P332
P401
P401
Computational Physics II
Computational Physics II
P455
P485
Or
P361
Electromagnetic Theory
P332
P412
P401
P401
Nuclear Experimental
Techniques
Computational Physics II
Computational Physics II
P441
Analogue Electronics
P442
M335
+ 2 from:
P361
P411
M325
P455
P485
CHEMISTRY(major) - PHYSICS(minor)
Second Year:
Semester I
C205
P261
M211
C251
Third Year:
Semester II
Analytical & Inorganic
Chemistry
Electricity & Magnetism
Mathematical Methods III
Organic Chemistry I
C265
P212
M212
C252
Atomic Physics
Mathematical Methods IV
Organic Chemistry II
Semester I
C361
Either
Or
C341
P251
C321
C351
Analytical Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry III
Semester II
C362
C342
P252
C322
C352
Fourth Year:
Semester I
C461
Either
Or:
Any 2
chemistry
courses
from:
P341
P361
C421
C481
C491
C441
C451
Semester II
Quant. Mech. & Mol.
Spectro.
Introduction to Electronics
Electromagnetic Theory
Appl. Analytical
Chem.(Inorganic)
Inorganic Industrial Chem.
I
Organic Industrial Chem. I
Adv. Inorganic Chemistry I
Adv. Organic Chemistry I
C462
C482
C492
C442
C452
P342
P302
C422
Semester II
M212
P252
P261
GG201
P212
GG202
Mathematical Methods IV
Class. Mech. II & Sp.
Relativity
Atomic Physics
Physical Geology
Semester II
P272
Optics
P342
GG312
Digital Electronics I
Mineralogy & Petrology
GG335
Structural Geology I
Third Year:
Semester I
P231
P341
SE481
GG311
Fourth Year:
Semester I
P361
GG551
GG581
P441
Electromagnetic Theory
Explor. Mining Geol.&
Management
Applied Geophysics
Analogue Electronics
Semester II
GG442
GG435
P332
P442
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
3rd/4th Year
Ending with 1
Ending with 2
Ending with 4
Ending with 8
Ending with 5
First Semester
Second Semester
Second Semester
Second Semester
Either Semester
COURSE DETAILS
P191: INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS I
Rationale:
Physics is one of the four compulsory courses at the entry point in the School of Natural Sciences.
The student is expected to learn Physics at a level higher than that he/she encountered in the High
School, learning the basic concepts.
Objectives:
At the end of this course the student should have acquired sufficient knowledge of the basic concepts
of Physics to allow her/him to continue studies at higher levels in any branch of science.
Course Content:
Vectors and their use; uniformly accelerated motion; units; Newton's laws; work and energy; linear
momentum; motion in a circle; rotational work, energy and momentum; static equilibrium; mechanical
properties of matter; gases and the kinetic theory; thermal properties of matter; thermodynamics;
vibration and waves.
Time allocation: Lectures: 3 hrs/week. Tutorial: 1 hr/week. Lab: 3 hrs/week
Assessment: Continuous Assessment: 50%, Final Examination: 50%.
Recommended Textbook:
F. J. Bueche, D. A. Jerde, Principles of Physics 6th ed., McGraw-Hill, 1995. ISBN: 13.978-00700
Assessment: Continuous Assessment. 40%, (labs 15%, Tests 20% and Assignments 5%)
Final examination. 60%
Pre-requisites: M111, M112/M114, P191, P192 Co-requisite: M211
Prescribed Texts:
1. C. D. Collinson, Introductory Mechanics, Edward Arnold, London, 1980. ISBN:0 7131 2786 4
Recommended Texts:
1. K. R. Symon, Mechanics, Addison-Wesley, 1971. ISBN:13:9780070350489
2. G. Sposito, An Introduction to Classical Mechanics, J. Wiley and Sons, 1976.
ISBN:13:9780201029185
3. R. Grant and C. L. George, Analytical Mechanics, Brooks/Cole, USA, 1999. ISBN:0-03-022 317-2
Recommended Texts:
1. K. R. Symon, Mechanics, Addison-Wesley, 1971. ISBN: 10:0070350485
2. G. Sposito, An Introduction to Classical Mechanics, J. Wiley and Sons, 1976. 10:0201029189
3. R. Grant and C. L. George, Analytical Mechanics, Brooks/Cole, USA, 1999. ISBN: 0-03-022 317-2
2.0
3.0
X-rays
Nature of X-rays. X-ray wave-lengths; X-ray production; the X-ray tube; X-ray spectrum: emission
spectra and the continuous spectrum. X-ray diffraction. Energy levels. Moseleys law. Properties
of X-rays. Absorption of X-rays: photo-effect; the Compton effect; pair production. the de Broglie
hypothesis; the uncertainty principle;
4.0
Radioactivity
The phenomena of radioactivity. Radiations released in radioactive decay and their properties;
Natural and artificial radio-activity. Radiation detectors. Law of radioactive decay; decay
constant, half-life and mean life. Alpha, beta and gamma decays. Radioactive decay series.
Nuclear reactions: incident particles, target nuclei outgoing particle and recoil-nucleus.
Kinematics of nuclear reactions. Q-value in a nuclear reaction. Fusion and fission.
Time allocation: 3 one hour lectures/week, 1 one hour tutorial/week, 1 three hour lab/week
Assessment: Continuous assessment: 40%, Final Examination 60%
Pre-requisites: M111, M112/M114, P191, P192/P198. Co-requisite: M212
Prescribed Texts:
1. M. R. Wehr, J. A. Richards and T. W. Adair, Physics of the Atom, Addison-Wesley, 1994.
ISBN 10:0201088789
2. A. F. Kip, Fundamentals of Electricity and Magnetism, McGraw-Hill, Kogakusha Ltd.
ASIN: B0007E60GW
Recommended Texts:
1. S. T. Thornton, Modern Physics for Scientists and Engineers, 2nd ed., Thomson Learning, 2002.
ISBN 0-03-006049-4
2. A. J. Dekker, Electrical Engineering Materials, Prentice Hall of India, 2005. ISBN 0:9880333918333
Co-requisite: M211
Prescribed Texts:
1. M. W Zemansky and R. H. Dittman, Heat and Thermodynamics, McGraw Hill, 1981. ISBN: 13:9780071223041
2. F.H. Newman and V. H. L Searle, The General Properties of Matter, Edward Arnold, 1965. ISBN:
13:978-071312119365
P272: OPTICS
Rationale:
Optics is a branch of physics dealing with the properties and nature of light. Its basic applications are
used in all branches of science, technology and engineering. New developments in optics have
increased the importance of optics and its applications.
Objectives:
At the end of attending the course, the student should acquire:
1. an understanding of the basic concepts of geometrical and physical optics,
2. an introduction to basic optical instruments and their working principles.
Course Content:
Geometrical Optics: 1. Lenses and aberrations, 2. Prisms and prism instruments; dispersion,
Physical Optics: 3. Interference, 4. Diffraction, 5. Polarisation, and 6. Electro and magneto optics;
quantum optics and lasers.
Associated Laboratory: P272
Time allocation: 3 one hour lectures/week, 1 one hour tutorial/week, 1 three hour lab/week
Assessment: Continuous assessment: 40%, Final Examination 60%
Pre-requisites: M111, M112/M114, P191, P192
Co-requisite: M212
Prescribed Texts:
1. A. Jenkins and H. Elliot, Fundamentals of Optics, McGraw-Hill, 1981. ISBN: 10:0070323305
2. F. G. Smith and J. H. Thompson, Optics, John Wiley, 1988. ISBN: 13:978-0471915348
Recommended Text:
1. R. S. Longhurst, Geometrical and Physical Optics, Longman, 1986. ISBN: 13:978-0582440999
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week, Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Lab: Associated laboratory of 3 hrs/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 40%, Final Examination: 60%
Pre-requisites: P251, P252, P261, P212, M211, M212
Prescribed Texts
1. B. H. Bransden and C. J. Joachain, Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, ELBS, 1989, ISBN: 0582-44498-5
2. S. Gasiorowicz, Quantum Physics, J. Wiley & Sons, 1971, ISBN: 0 471 29281-8
Recommended Texts:
1. A. I. M. Rae, Quantum Mechanics, Institute of Physics Publisher, 1993, ISBN: 13:9780750302173
Course Content:
Review of Vectors and Vector Calculus: Dot and vector products, time derivative. Vector operators:
gradient, divergence, curl and Laplacian. Line, surface and volume integrals. Green's theorem,
Stoke's theorem. Vector operators in spherical and cylindrical coordinates.
Electrostatic Fields I: Electrostatic Fields in Vacuum - Coulomb's Law, electric field intensity, electric
potential, electric field outside and inside macroscopic bodies, Gauss's Law, Poisson's and Laplace's
equation, conductors, electric dipole, potential energy of a charge distribution, energy density in an
electric field.
Electrostatic Fields II: Dielectric Materials - Electric polarization, electric field at an exterior point,
bound charge densities, polarization current density, electric susceptibility, electric displacement,
relative permittivity and Poisson's equation for dielectrics, the free and the bound charge density,
calculation of electric fields involving dielectrics, potential energy of a charge distribution in the
presence of dielectrics.
Electrostatic Fields III: General Methods for Solving Laplace and Poisson's Equations - Continuity
conditions, the Uniqueness theorem, method of images. Solution of Laplace equation in rectangular
coordinates.
Magnetic Fields I: Steady Currents and Nonmagnetic Materials: The Biot-Savart Law, magnetic
induction due to straight and circular wires, force on a point charge moving in a magnetic field,
divergence of magnetic induction, vector potential, curl of magnetic induction, Ampere's circuital Law
and applications, magnetic dipole.
Magnetic Fields II: Induced Electromotance and Magnetic Energy - Faraday's induction Law and
applications, induced electromotance in a moving system, mutual and self inductance, energy stored
in a magnetic field, self-inductance for a volume distribution of current.
Magnetic Fields III: Magnetic Materials - Magnetization, magnetic induction at an exterior point, the
magnetic field intensity H, Ampere's circuital law, magnetic susceptibiliy and relative permeability,
equivalent current density and the free current density, hysteresis, boundary conditions, magnetic
field calculations.
Maxwell's Equations - charge conservation, the Lorentz condition, nonhomogeneous wave equations
for V and A, curl of B, Maxwell's equations.
Propagation of Electromagnetic Waves - Plane electromagnetic waves in free space, Poynting vector,
the E and H vectors in homogeneous, isotropic, linear and stationary media, propagation of plane
electromagnetic waves in nonconductors and conductors, skin effect.
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week Tutorial: 1 hr /week Lab: Associated practical lab: 3 hrs/week
Assessment:
Continuous Assessment 40%, Final Examination 60%
Prerequisites: P261
Prescribed Books:
1.
2.
P. Lorrain and D. Corson, Electromagnetic Fields and Waves, W H Freeman and Company,
San Francisco, 1970. 13:978-0471571322
R. K. Wangness, Electromagnetic Fields, John Wiley and Sons, New York,1986. ISBN:
978:0-471-81186-2
derived. This lays the groundwork for the study of more complex systems which cannot be treated in
this course, and it leads to the study of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics at postgraduate level.
Objectives
At the end of this course, the student should have learned:
1. The connection between the laws of thermodynamics and the microscopic structure of
matter.
2. How to use statistical mechanics to calculate the properties of simple systems.
3. How to derive many of the results of kinetic theory and thermodynamics by means of the
standard tools of statistical mechanics such as the partition function.
4. The student should be ready to move on to the study of more advanced concepts and more
complex physical systems in subsequent courses.
Course Content
Probability and Statistics: The random walk problem, the binomial distribution, the Gaussian
distribution, the Poisson distribution
Statistical Description of Systems of Particles: Statistical formulation of the mechanical problem
Statistical Thermodynamics: Irreversibility at the attainment of equilibrium, thermal interaction
between macroscopic systems, general interaction between macroscopic systems, general
interaction between macroscopic systems
Macroscopic Parameters and Their Measurement
Simple Applications of Macroscopic Thermodynamics: Properties of ideal gases, general relations for
a homogeneous substance, free expansion and throttling processes, heat engines and refrigerators
Basic Methods of Statistical Mechanics: Ensembles representative of situations of physical interest,
approximation methods
Simple Applications of Statistical Mechanics: Ideal monatomic gas, the equipartition theorem,
paramagnetism
Equilibrium Between Phases or Chemical Species: General equilibrium conditions, equilibrium
between phases, chemical equilibrium of systems with several components
Quantum Statistics of Ideal Gases: Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein, Fermi-Dirac statistics, blackbody radiation.
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week, Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Lab: Associated laboratory of 3 hrs/week.
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 40%, Final Examination: 60%
Pre-requisites: P231, P272, M211, M212
Prescribed Texts
1. F. Reif, Fundamentals of Statistical and Thermal Physics, McGraw-Hill, 1981. ISBN: 0-07085615-X
2. B. N. Roy, Fundamentals of Classical and Statistical Thermodynamics, Wiley, 2002. ISBN:
13:978-0470843161
Recommended Texts
1. M. W. Zemansky, Heat and Thermodynamics, McGraw-Hill, 1957. ISBN: 978-0070170599
2. F. W. Sears, Thermodynamics, McGraw-Hill, 1963. ISBN: 13:020106894
Recommended Texts:
1. J. J. Brophy, Basic Electronics for Scientists, 5th ed., McGraw-Hill, University of Utah, 1990.
ISBN:13:978-00781475
2. R. J. Higgins, Electronics with Digital and Analog Integrated Circuits, Prentice Hall, Englewood
Cliffs, N. J. 1983.
8. Non-linear Dynamics: Chaos and fractals with reference to some simple Physics problems.
Time Allocation: 3 hrs/week. Tutorial: 1 hr/week Laboratory: Associated Practical Computing Class.
Assessment: Labs: 30%, Tests: 20%, Final Examination: 50%
Pre-requisites: P302, P351
Recommended Texts:
1. J. R. Hanly, Essential C++ for Engineers and Scientists, 2nd ed., Addison Wesley Publishing Co,
New York, 2002. ISBN: 10:020188495X
2. W. H. Press, B. P. Flannery, S. A. Teukolsky and W. T. Vetterling, Numerical Recipes, The Art of
Scientific Computing, Cambridge Univ. Press, Cambridge, 1990. ISBN: 978-0521431088
3. P. L. DeVries, A First Course in Computational Physics, John Wiley and Sons, New York, 1994.
ISBN: 13:978-0471548690
4. Harvey Gould & Jan Tobochnik, An Introduction to Computer Simulation Methods, Parts I & II,
Addison Wesley, New York, 1987. ISBN: 0-8053-7758-1
Further references:
1. H. M. Deitel and P. J. Deitel, C++ How to Program, Fourth Edition, Pearson Education, Patparganj,
Delhi, 2004. ISBN: 13:978-0131016217
2. Microsoft C# Language Specifications, Microsoft Press, Microsoft Corporation, Redmond,
Washington, 2001. ISBN: 978-0070081475
4. E. Kreyszig, Advanced Engineering Mathematics, John Wiley & Sons, 1988). ISBN: 0471726451
Course Content:
Solar Radiation Fundamentals: Radiation Laws, The Sun, Sun-earth geometry, solar constant,
extraterrestrial radiation, spectral distribution, attenuation of solar radiation by the atmosphere, solar
radiation on the ground; direct, diffuse and global radiation; solar radiation on horizontal and inclined
surfaces, measurement of solar radiation.
Solar Energy Utilization: Fundamentals of heat transfer; conduction, convection and radiation in
specific-shaped bodies. Optics of collectors, reflection and refraction at dielectric interfaces,
transmittance and reflectance of single and multiple glazings, optical efficiency of a glazing-absorber
system, anti-reflecting coatings for glazings, selective absorber coatings; concentrators; solar heating
panels, performance and time constant under stagnant conditions, operational characteristics of flatplate collector; solar heating system; arrays; heat exchangers and heat pumps; thermodynamic
conversion of solar energy to work, solar powered mechanical engines, solar-driven cooling; direct
conversion of solar energy to electricity, intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors, the p-n junction,
junction photovoltaic spectral response of photocurrent, theoretical efficiency of photovoltaic devices,
photovoltaic arrays and systems.
Other Renewable Sources of Energy: Wind power: Types of wind turbines, design considerations and
applications. Biomass: Photosynthesis principle, physical characteristics of biomass residues,
thermoconversion (pyrolysis), gasification, biological conversion (anaerobic, fermentation).
Hydropower: Principles of hydropower extraction and hydropower turbines. Ocean thermal energy
conversion (OTEC): Principle and efficiency of OTEC, sea thermal power plants. Geothermal power.
Tidal power.
Physics of the Atmosphere: The atmosphere, hydrostatic equation, adiabatic lapse rate, blackbody
radiation, radiative transfer, absorption and emission of radiation, radiative equilibrium in a grey
atmosphere, energy systems of the earth, global radiation budget, equilibrium temperature, the
greenhouse effect and climate change. Absorption of radiation by ozone and the problem of ozone
depletion.
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs per week, Tutorial: 1 hr per week , Laboratory: 1 laboratory per week
Assessment:
Continuous Assessment: 40%, Final examination 60%
Pre-requisites: P231, P361
Recommended Texts
1. S. Wieder, An Introduction to Solar Energy for Scientists and Engineers, John Wiley & Sons,
1982. ISBN: 13-978-0471060482
2. J.T. Houghton, The Physics of the Atmosphere, Cambridge University Press, 1977. ISBN:
13:9780521011221
ISBN: 13:978-
Supplementary Reading
1. H. P. Garg, Treatise on Solar Energy, Vol 1, John Wiley & Sons, 1982. ISBN:
10:096014810300168X
2. J. A. Duffie and W. A. Beckman, Solar Engineering of Thermal Processes, John Wiley &
Sons, 1980. ISBN: 13:978-04715610567
3. A. Henderson-Sellers and P. J. Robinson, Contemporary Climatology, Longman Scientific &
Technical, 1986. ISBN: 13:978-0470206645
4. M. Iqbal, Introduction to Solar Radiation, Academic Press, 1983. OSTI 10:5596615
2. W. R. Leo, Techniques for Nuclear and Particle Physics Experiments, Springer Verlag, BerlinHeidelberg-New York, ISBN: 3-540-17386-2
3. E. Segre, Nuclei and Particles, The Benjamin/Cumming Publishing Co., 1977. ISBN:
10:0805386009
2. Nuclear Decay:
Alpha decay: basic theory, Gamow factor, Geiger-Nuttal law.
Beta decay: beta spectrum and Fermi-theory (without derivation), nature of weak interaction, parity
non conservation and helicity. Electron capture. Gamma decay: selection rules, transition
probabilities, internal conversion, nuclear isomerism, Coulomb excitation and nuclear fluorescence.
3. Nuclear Reactions:
Conservation laws for nuclear reactions.
cross-sections.
Recommended Texts:
1. H. Enge, Introduction to Nuclear Physics, Addison Wesley,1966. ISBN: 0201018705
2. E. Segre , Nuclei and Particles, Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Co., 1977 ISBN: 100805386009
3. W. N. Cottingham and D. A.Greenwood, An Introduction to Nuclear Physics, Cambridge University
Press, ISBN: 0 521 319609
4. H. von Buttlar, Nuclear Physics: An Introduction, Academic Press,1969. ISBN: 10: 0127245502
5. B. L. Cohen, Concepts of Nuclear Physics, McGraw-Hill, 1971. ISBN: 10: 0070115567
Supplementary Texts:
1. E. B. Paul, Nuclear and Particle Physics, North Holland, 1969. ISBN: 13:978-0720401462
2. J. M. Blatt and V. Weisskopf, Theoretical Nuclear Physics, Dover Publications New Edition,
1991. ISBN: 13:978-0486668277
3. M. A. Preston, Physics of the Nucleus. Addison & Wesley. 1967. ISBN: 13-9781124160276
4. R. R. Roy and B. P. Nigam, Nuclear Physics: Theory and Experiment, New Age International,
1996. ISBN: 13:978-0852267882
Course Content:
Crystal structure. Crystal diffraction and the reciprocal lattice. Crystal binding. Lattice
vibrations.
Thermal properties of solids. Free
electron Fermi gas.
Energy bands.
Semiconductors.
Associated Laboratory.
Time Allocation:
3 one-hour lectures/week.
1 hr tutorial/week.
1 three-hour laboratory/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 40%: Assignments
Tests
Labs
Final Examination 60%
5%
20%
15% (To depend on the number of labs)
Course Content:
Fermi surfaces. Plasmons, polaritons and polarons. Optical properties of solids and excitons.
Superconductivity. Dielectrics and ferroelectrics. Magnetic properties of solids. Defects in solids.
Associated Laboratory.
Time Allocation:
3 one-hour lectures/week.
1 hr tutorial/week.
1 three-hour laboratory/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 40%: Assignments 5%, Tests 20%, Labs 15% (To depend on number
of labs), Final Examination 60%
Pre-requisites: P421, P351, P332, P361, MP415
Prescribed Textbooks:
1. C. Kittel, Introduction to Solid State Physics, 6th ed., J. Wiley & Sons, New York. 1986.
ISBN: 10:471490245
2. J. S. Blakemore, Solid State Physics, 2nd ed., Cambridge University Press. 1985. ISBN:
521313910
Recommended Texts:
1. M. Fox, Optical Properties of Solids, Oxford University Press Inc., New York, 2001. ISBN: 13:9780198506113
2. J. Singleton, Band Theory and Electronic Properties of Solids, Oxford University Press Inc., New
York, 2001. ISBN: 13:978-0198506454
3. S. Blundell, Magnetism in Condensed Matter, Oxford University Press Inc., New York, 2001. ISBN:
13:978-0198505914
4. N. W. Ashcroft and D. N. Mermin, Solid State Physics, Harcourt College Publishers, Orlando,
1976. ISBN: 13:978-0030839931
5. S. O. Pillai, Solid State Physics, 5th ed., New Age International Publishers, New Delhi, 2003.
ISBN: 13:978-8122403817
6. H. V. Keer, Principles of the Solid State Physics, New Age International Publishers, New Delhi,
2000. ISBN: 10:812240466
7. A. J. Dekker, Solid State Physics, Macmillan & Co. Ltd, London, 1960. ISBN: 10:9880333918333
the basic principles of common operational amplifier and linear integrated circuit
configurations.
analysis of operational amplifier circuits and their application to physics
more advanced linear integrated circuit applications.
Course Content
1. Introduction to operational amplifiers: Basic operational amplifier circuit; Open loop opamp
configurations-the differential amplifier, the inverting amplifier and the non-inverting amplifier; Opamp
parameters
2. Operational amplifiers with feedback: Block diagram representation of feedback configurations;
Voltage series feedback amplifier; Voltage shunt feedback amplifier; Differential amplifiers-differential
amplifier with one opamp, differential amplifier with two opamps, output resistance and bandwidth of
differential amplifiers with feedback.
3. The practical operational amplifier: offset voltage compensating network design. Thermal drift error voltage. Effect of variation in power supply voltages on offset voltage. Change in input offset
voltage and input offset current with time, other temperature and supply voltage sensitive parameters
and noise.
4. Frequency response of an operational amplifier: compensating networks; frequency response of
internally compensated and non-compensated opamps; high frequency opamp equivalent circuit;
circuit stability; frequency compensation techniques, slew rate equation, effect of slew rate in
applications
5. General linear applications and linear simulation: DC and AC amplifiers, the peaking amplifier,
summing, scaling and averaging amplifiers; integrators and differentiators; mathematical function
circuits used to perform physical dynamic simulations, solution to a damped harmonic oscillator.
6. Active filters and oscillators: First order and second order low pass Butterworth filters; First order
and second order high pass Butterworth filters; Higher order filters, Band pass filters-wide band pass
filter and narrow band pass filter; Oscillators - Phase shift oscillator, Wien Bridge oscillator, Square
wave generator; Comparators- basic comparators, comparator characteristics, zero crossing
detectors. Schmitt trigger.
Associated laboratory.
Time allocation: 3 one-hour lectures/week, 1 one hour tutorial per week, 1 three-hour lab/week
Assessment: Continuous Assessment 50%, (30 % laboratory work, 10 % Test 1, 10 % Test 2), Final
examination 50%.
Pre-requisite: P341
Prescribed Texts
1. S. Franco, Design with Operational Amplifiers and Analog Integrated Circuits, 3rd ed.,
McGraw-Hill Science/Engineering/Math, 2001. ISBN 13: 978-0072320848
2. W. Jung, Op Amp Applications Handbook (Analog Devices Series), Newnes, 2004. ISBN-10:
0750678445, ISBN-13: 978-0750678445,.
The Interaction of Quantum Systems with Radiation: the electromagnetic field and its interaction with
radiation; perturbation theory for harmonic perturbations and transition rates; spontaneous emission;
selection rules for electric dipole transitions; line intensities, widths and shapes; the spin of the photon
and helicity; photoionisation; photodisintegration.
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week: Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 30%: Final Examination: 70%
Pre-requisites: P351
Prescribed Texts:
1. B. H. Bransden and C. J. Joachain, Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, Longman, 1989.
13-978-0582 444 980
ISBN:
or
Gravitation and Cosmology (i.e., The general theory of relativity and its application to cosmology)
or
Quantum Optics
or
Quantum Field Theory for Bosons and Fermions
or
Relativistic Quantum Mechanics: Klein-Gordon equation, The Dirac equation
Associated laboratory course: none
Time allocation:
3 one-hour lectures/week, 1 one-hour tutorial
Assessment:
Continuous Assessment: 30% (Two tests 20%, Assignments 10%), Final Examination 70%
Pre-requisites: P251, P252, P361, P351
Co-requisite: P455
Prescribed Texts:
1. H. Goldstein, Classical Mechanics (Addison-Wesley, 1950). ISBN: 13:978-0201657029
2. J. D. Jackson, Electrodynamics, Wiley 3rd ed., 1998. ISBN: 13-9780471309321
3. Gravitation and Cosmology: Space, Time and Cosmology, Blocks 3 and 4, Open University,
Milton Keynes, 2001, Block 3 ISBN: 0 7492 8160X, Block 4 ISBN: 0 7492 8161 8
4. D. F. Walls and G.J. Milburn, Quantum Optics, Springer Verlag, ISBN 3 540 58831 0
5. M. O. Scully and M. S. Zubairy, Quantum Optics, Cambridge University Press, ISBN: 0 521
43595 1)
6. P. L. Knight and L. Allen, Concepts of Quantum Optics, Pergamon Press, Oxford, 1993. ISBN:
13-978-0080291604
7. J.D. Bjorken and S.D. Drell, Quantum Field Theory, McGraw-Hill, New York.
8. J.D. Bjorken and S. D. Drell, Relativistic Quantum Mechanics, McGraw-Hill, New York, ISBN
07 005 493 2
9. W. Greiner, Relativistic Wave Equations, 3rd ed., Butterworth-Heinmann, 1981.
ISBN: 13-978-0750635394
Objectives:
At the end of this course, the student should
1.
2.
3.
4.
Understand the fundamentals of laser physics and many of the diverse applications of lasers
Understand the principles and applications of Fourier optics
Have grasped the principles of holography as well as the applications
Have understood the basic principles of non-linear and fibre optics
Course Content
1. Laser Physics: Basic properties of lasers: Population inversion, Einstein coefficients, spontaneous
and stimulated emission, momentum transfer, life time, laser pumping and threshold conditions.
Types of lasers: the He-Ne laser. Applications: earth drift and rotation, counting of atoms, isotope
separation, fusion, communication. Lasers in astronomy, biology, chemistry, industry, the military and
medicine.
2. Fourier Optics: Introduction Fraunhofer and Fresnel diffraction, effect of a thin lens on an incident
field, lens as a Fourier-transforming element, point spread function of a thin lens, frequency analysis,
spatial frequency filtering. Applications: Character recognition, cross-correlation, phase-contrast
microscopy.
3. Holography: General equations of holography, sources of illumination for holography, various types
of holograms: plane hologram, volume hologram, point source hologram, Fourier-transform hologram.
Properties of holograms, the hologram as an optical element. Applications in interferometry,
inspection and testing, microscopy and image processing.
4. Non-linear and fiber optics: Harmonic generation, phase matching, conjugate phase mirror, optical
mixing, parametric generation of light, cladding, clad optical fiber, inter-modal dispersion, graded
index, single mode fiber, step index multi-mode fiber, waves at an interface. Fresnel's equations:
derivation, interpretation, total internal reflection by an absorbing medium. Applications: Real time
holography and optical communication.
Time Allocation:
Lectures 3 hrs/week, Tutorial: 1 hr/week, Laboratory: 1 session/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 40%, Final Examination 60%
Pre-requisites: P272, P351, P361, M911, M912
Prescribed Texts:
1. A. K. Ghatak and K. Thyagarajan, Contemporary Optics, Plenum Publishing Corporation, New
York, 1984.
2. B. B. Laud, Lasers and Non-linear Optics, J. Wiley & Sons, New York, 1987.
Recommended Texts:
1. P. Hariharan, Optical Holography, Cambridge Univ. Press, Cambridge, 1987. ISBN: 13-978051439657
2. N. S. Kapany and J. J. Burke, Optical Waveguides, Academic Press, New York, 1972.
Recommended Texts:
1. E. Kreyszig, Advanced Engineering Mathematics, John Wiley & Sons, 1988. ISBN: 10:0471726451
2. G. Arfken, Mathematical Methods for Physicists, Academic, 1993. ISBN: 13:978-0120598
Supplementary Reading:
1. R. V. Churchill and J. W. Brown, Complex Variables and Applications, 4th ed., MacGraw-Hill, 1984.
ISBN: 13:978-0070108554,
2. A. O. Morris, Linear Algebra: An Introduction, Van-Nostrand, 1978. ISBN: 13:978-0442305413
3. J. B. Conway, Functions of One Complex Variable, Springer-Verlag, 1978. ISBN: 13:9780387900029
M. Sc. in Physics
The M.Sc. in Physics consists of two parts: Part 1 contains one compulsory course and three
optional courses while Part 2 consists of a dissertation (theoretical or experimental) in a
specialisation linked to research interests within the department. At present, this is in a suitable area
of Nuclear Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, Computational Physics, Instrumentation, Solar
Energy Application, and Physics of Atmosphere and Climate. The whole programme is designed for
two (2) years of full-time study.
The following courses are offered:
Semester I
Semester II
Compulsory
Courses
MP5011
MP5022
Optional Courses
PHY5911
PHY5111
PHY5211
PHY5311
PHY5431
PHY5811
PHY5922
PHY5122
PHY5222
PHY5322
PHY5422
PHY5831
PHY5822
PHY5832
It is anticipated that the candidate would supplement his/her knowledge in the given subject if
he/she did not take the pre-requisites in his/her undergraduate studies. These would not count
towards his/her M.Sc. A candidate is required to pass Part I before proceeding to Part II.
The optional courses can be combined in the following manner:
Semester I
Semester II
PHY5911
PHY5111
PHY5311
PHY5922
PHY5122
PHY5322
PHY5911
PHY5222
PHY5311
PHY5922
PHY5211
PHY5322
PHY5911
PHY5311
PHY5431
PHY5922
PHY5322
PHY5422
PHY5911
PHY5311
PHY5811
PHY5922
PHY5322
PHY5822
PHY5911
PHY5311
PHY5831
PHY5922
PHY5322
PHY5832
PHY5911
PHY5431
PHY5811
PHY5922
PHY5422
PHY5911
PHY5431
PHY5831
PHY5922
PHY5422
PHY5832
PHY5911
PHY5811
PHY5922
PHY5831
PHY5822
PHY5832
Nuclear Physics
Theoretical Physics
Instrumentation
PHY5111
PHY5311
PHY5431
PHY5122
PHY5322
PHY5422
Nuclear Physics
Theoretical Physics
Solar Energy and Applications
Solar Energy Materials
PHY5111
PHY5311
PHY5811
PHY5122
PHY5322
Nuclear Physics
Theoretical Physics
Physics of the Atmosphere and Climate
PHY5111
PHY5311
PHY5831
PHY5122
PHY5322
PHY5832
PHY5211
PHY5311
PHY5431
PHY5222
PHY5322
PHY5422
PHY5211
PHY5311
PHY5811
PHY5222
PHY5322
PHY5211
PHY5311
PHY5831
PHY5222
PHY5322
PHY5832
Theoretical Physics
Solar Energy and Applications
Solar Energy Materials
Physics of the Atmosphere and Climate
PHY5311
PHY5811
PHY5322
Instrumentation
Solar Energy and Applications
Solar Energy Materials
Physics of the Atmosphere and Climate
PHY5431
PHY5811
PHY5822
PHY5822
PHY5822
PHY5831
PHY5831
PHY5822
PHY5832
PHY5422
PHY5822
PHY5832
It should be noted that the combinations offered are subject to the availability of staff and the
background of the student.
4. M. Spiegel, Vectors With Tensor Analysis, Schaum Series, McGraw-Hill, 1974. ISBN:
0071108076
Objectives
At the end of this course, the student
1. Should be well-equipped to solve differential equations by numerical methods.
2. Should know how to model a physical system mathematically, with a view to solving it.
3. Should know how to use various numerical methods to solve problems which are not
amenable to analytic solution.
4. Have deepened his/her understanding of numerical methods initially introduced in P302
and P401 and PHY5911
5. Should be ready for more advanced study in numerical analysis and modelling.
Course Content
Numerical Solution of Ordinary Differential Equations: Existence and uniqueness of solutions, the
Taylor-series method, Runge-Kutta methods, multi-step methods, local and global errors;
stability, systems of higher-order differential equations, boundary-value problems, linear
differential equations, stiff equations.
Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations: Parabolic equations, problems without time
dependence, first-order partial differential equations, quasi-linear second-order equations, other
methods for hyperbolic equations, multi-grid methods, fast methods for Poissons equation
Linear Programming and Related Topics: Convexity and linear inequalities, linear programming,
the simplex algorithm
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week, Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Lab: Associated laboratory of 3 hrs/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 40%, Final examination: 60%
Pre-requisites: PHY5911
Prescribed Texts
1. E. Kreyszig, Advanced Engineering Mathematics, J. Wiley and Sons, 2006. ISBN: 9971-51283-1
2. D. Kincaid and W. Cheney, Numerical Analysis, Brooks/Cole, 1991). ISBN: 0-534-13014-3
3. R. L. Burden and J. D. Faires, Numerical Analysis, PWS-Kent, 1989. ISBN: 0-53491-585-X
Objectives
At the end of this course, the student
1. Should know how to use the numerous models for nuclear reactions in their regimes of
applicability.
2. Should be ready for more advanced study in nuclear physics.
Course Content
Introduction to Nuclear Reactions: Types of reactions, energy and mass balance, cross-sections,
nuclear sizes from neutron scattering, Coulomb scattering and Rutherfords formula, electrons
scattering, Coulomb excitation, polarization, angular correlations, partial waves, identical particles
Elementary Scattering Theory: Form of the wave function, differential cross sections, the
Schrdinger equation, partial waves, total cross section and the optical theorem, collisions with
spin, R-matrix and boundary-matching theories, classical and semi-classical descriptions
Models of Nuclear Reactions: Partial waves and strong absorption, effects of the Coulomb field,
diffraction models and strong-absorption scattering, strong-absorption models for inelastic
scattering, the optical model for elastic scattering, direct reactions, compound nucleus
resonances, continuum statistical theory of the compound nucleus, reactions between heavy ions
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week, Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 30%, Final examination: 70%
Pre-requisites: P411, P412, P455, MP415
Prescribed Texts
1. G. R. Satchler, Introduction to Nuclear Reactions, Macmillan Press, 1980. ISBN: 0-33325907-6
2. E. Segre, Nuclei and Particles, Benjamin/Cummings Publishing. ISBN: 10:0805386009
2. Should be ready for more advanced study in such areas as string theory and particle
cosmology.
Recommended Course Content
Interactions of particles with matter, and detectors
SU(2), SU(3), models of mesons and baryons
QED, weak interactions, parity violation, lepton-nucleon scattering, and structure functions
QCD, gluon field and color
W and Z fields, electro-weak unification, the CKM matrix
Nucleon-nucleon interactions, properties of nuclei, single and collective particle models
Electron and hadron interactions with nuclei
Relativistic heavy ion collisions, and transition to quark-gluon plasma
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week, Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 30%, Final examination: 70%
Pre-requisites: PHY5111, PHY5311
Co-requisite: PHY5322
Prescribed Texts
1. F. Halzen and D. Martin, Quarks and Leptons, Wiley Text Books, New York, 1984. ISBN:
0471887412.
2. S. M. Wong, Introductory Nuclear Physics, 2nd ed., Wiley-Interscience, New York, 1998.
ISBN: 0471239739.
Recommended Texts
1. D. Griffith, Introduction to Elementary Particles, Wiley Text Books, 1987. ISBN: 0471603864.
2. B. Povh, Particles and Nuclei: An Introduction to the Physical Concepts, 3rd ed., SpringerVerlag, Berlin; New York, 2002. ISBN: 3540438238.
3. J. J. Sakurai, Modern Quantum Mechanics, 2nd ed., Addison-Wesley, Reading, Mass., 1994.
ISBN: 0201539292.
Rationale:
This course is intended for graduate students and covers advanced topics in condensed matter
physics. Here a combined use of the statistical mechanics and the quantum theory lie at the heart
of this course. The student is grilled to look at those topics based on classical methods and those
demanding a quantum treatment. One can also look at this course as P421 but treated at an
advanced level. We discuss the theoretical treatment of the physics of solids,
The intention of this course is to make students understand at an advanced level the microscopic
and macroscopic properties of solids and be conversant with the mathematical formulations of
these properties towards certain physical applications.
Objectives:
After completing this course, a student should have:
1. a thorough understanding of the scientific characteristics that make solids stand out as
one of the key states of matter;
2. a deep grasp of the fundamental theories, both classical and quantum mechanical,
underlying the structural, thermal, electronic, optical, electrical and magnetic properties of
solids (metals, semimetals, semiconductors, insulators, dielectrics, etc.);
3. the knowledge to identify special key features of solids that are amenable to theoretical
and experimental manipulation for technological use;
Course Content:
Elementary excitations, crystal structure - symmetry- translational, rotational, energy bands APW, OPW, pseudopotential and LCAO schemes, theory of electron dynamics, scattering
processes.
Time Allocation:
3 one-hour lectures/week, 1 hr tutorial/week.
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 30%: Assignments 10%, Tests 20%, Final examination 70%
Pre-requisites:
P421, P422, P455, MP415.
Co-requisites:
Prescribed Textbooks:
1. N. W. Ashcroft and D. N. Mermin, Solid State Physics, Harcourt College Publishers, Orlando,
1976. ISBN: 13:978-0030839931
2. M. T. Dove, Structure and Dynamics An Atomic View of Materials, Oxford University Press
Inc., New York, 2003. ISBN: 10:0198506775
3. J. Singleton, Band Theory and Electronic Properties of Solids, Oxford University Press Inc.,
New York, 2001. 10:0198506457
Recommended Texts:
1. S.O. Pillai, Solid State Physics 5ed, New Age International Publishers, New Delhi, 2003.
ISBN: 10:8122403816
2. H. V. Keer, Principles of the Solid State, New Age International Publishers, New Delhi, 2000.
ISBN: 10:812240466
3. J. Dekker, Solid State Physics, Macmillan & Co. Ltd, London, 1960. ISBN: 10:9880333918333
4. S.L. Kakani and S. Kakani, Modern Physics, Viva Books Private Ltd., New Delhi, 2006. 4100
Rationale:
This course is a continuation of Condensed Matter Physics II and covers advanced topics in
condensed matter. However, here we treat specialised topics that are directed towards
background studies in areas of research that are to be the subject of the dissertation.
Objectives:
After completing this course, a student should be able to:
1. show a good understanding of the material properties of metals, insulators,
semiconductors and superconductors that are responsible for the importance of these
solids used in technological applications;
2. quantitatively describe the thermodynamic, optical, electrical and transport properties of
these novel materials;
3. show a good grasp of the fundamental characteristics of those magnetic materials
important in applied science;
4. understand the interaction of matter with electromagnetic radiation;
5. identify special features of solids that are amenable to theoretical and experimental
manipulation for technological use;
Course Content:
Matter-electron interactions, Stability of structures, Metals, Insulators and semiconductors,
Phonon measurements, Impurities and disorder, Collective phenomena, Superconductivity, etc.
Method of Teaching:
Time Allocation :
3 one-hour lectures/week.
1 hr tutorial/week.
Assessment:
Continuous assessment: 30%: Assignments
Tests
Final Examination 70%
10%
20%
1. N. W. Ashcroft and D. N. Mermin, Solid State Physics, Harcourt College Publishers, Orlando,
1976. ISBN: 13:978-0030839931
2. M. T. Dove, Structure and Dynamics An Atomic View of Materials, Oxford University Press
Inc., ew York, 2003. ISBN: 10:0198506775
3. J. Singleton, Band Theory and Electronic Properties of Solids, Oxford University Press Inc.,
New York, 2001. ISBN: 10:0198506457
Recommended Texts:
1. S.O. Pillai, Solid State Physics 5ed, New Age International Publishers, New Delhi, 2003.
ISBN: 10:8122403816
2. H. V. Keer, Principles of the Solid State, New Age International Publishers, New Delhi, 2000.
ISBN: 10:812240466
3. J. Dekker, Solid State Physics, Macmillan & Co. Ltd, London, 1960. ISBN: 10:9880333918333
4. S.L. Kakani and S. Kakani, Modern Physics, Viva Books Private Ltd., New Delhi, 2006. 4100
Prescribed Texts:
1. J. D. Bjorken and S. D. Drell, Relativistic Quantum Mechanics, McGraw-Hill, New York. ISBN:
07 005 493 2
2. W. Greiner, Relativistic Quantum Mechanics: Wave Equations, Springer Verlag, Berlin, 2000.
ISBN: 3540674578
3. A. Lahiri and P. B. Pal, A First Course of Quantum Field Theory, Narosa Publishing House,
New Delhi, 2005. ISBN 81-7319-654-0
1. J. D. Bjorken and S. D. Drell, Relativistic Quantum Mechanics (McGraw-Hill, New York), ISBN:
07 005 493 2
2. W. Greiner, Relativistic Wave Equations, 3rd ed., Butterworth Heinemann, 1981. ISBN:
13978-0750635394
3. Gravitation and Cosmology: Space, Time and Cosmology, Blocks 3 and 4, Open University,
Milton Keynes, 2001. Block 3 ISBN 0 7492 8160X, Block 4 ISBN: 0 7492 8161 8
detector (RTD); Thermocouples: Seebeck effect, base metal and rare metal thermocouples, their
metal combinations, operating ranges and uses; Law of Intermediate Metals and Law of
Intermediate Temperatures; Practical application of these laws in the use of thermocouples;
Installation techniques; Thermowells; Thermometer calibration procedures. Temperature
measurement by radiation method - optical pyrometer; solid state transducer.
5. Flow Measurements, methods and applications: Volume and mass flow rate; Turbulent flow,
streamlined flow and Reynolds number; The Continuity Equation, Bernoullis Equation and
application to differential pressure devices; Differential pressure primary elements: orifice plate,
Venturi tube, Dall tube, flow nozzle and pitot-static tube; Installation procedures; Classification of
flow meters:- mechanical flow meters, vortex flow meter, magnetic, ultrasound and coroilis flow
meters; Variable area flow meters.
6. Analytical, Optical and Biomedical Instrumentation: Mass spectrometry. UV, visible and IR
spectrometry. X-ray and nuclear radiation measurements. Optical sources and detectors, LED,
laser, Photo-diode, photo-resistor and their characteristics. Interferometers, applications in
metrology. Basics of fiber optics. Biomedical instruments, EEG, ECG and EMG. Clinical
measurements. Ultrasonic transducers and Ultrasonography.
Practical: Minimum Eight experiments based on above syllabus.
Time Allocation: 3 hours per week, 1 tutorial per week, Three-hour practical session per week.
Assessment:
50% exam, 30% laboratory work, 10% Tests, 10% Assignments
Pre-requisite: P231, P441
Recommended Textbooks
1. A. S. Morris, Measurement and Instrumentation Principles, Butterworth-Heinemann, 2001.
ISBN: 0750650818
2. L. Michalski, Temperature Measurement, John Wiley & Sons, 2001. ISBN: 0471867799
3. D. W. Spitzer, Industrial Flow Measurement, 3rd ed., ISA, 2000. ISBN: 1556178719
4. T. A. Hughes, Measurement and Control Basics, 3rd ed., ISA, 2002. ISBN: 155617764X
Additional Reading/Textbooks
1. B. G. Liptak, Instrument Engineers Handbook Process Measurement and Analysis, Vol 1, 4th
ed., ISA, 2003. ISBN: 0849310830
3. W. Buchanan, Industrial Instrumentation and Control, Butterworth- Heinemann, 1999. ISBN:
0340719222
be able to select suitable memories and input/output devices for his task and interface them
to the microprocessor;
(ii) gain knowledge in measurement, display and control of some electrical and physical
quantities;
(iii) be able to transfer skills to other applications.
Course Content
1.
2.
Real-Time Systems
Event driven activities , I/O Devices, Serial devices and parallel devices, Peripheral,
serial buses, Multitasking in Real-Time Systems using JAVA, Scheduling,
Synchronization, Watchdog timers, multi-threaded real-time data acquisition,
3 hrs/week
1 tutorial /week
3 hr practical session/week
Recommended Textbooks
1. Microprocessors and Microcomputer based System Design - Mohammed Rafiquzzaman
2. Slater, Microprocessor Based Design: A Comprehensive guide to Effective hardware Design,
PHI.
3. ARM9 Intel Manual.
(mainly
physical
and
chemical
deposition
methods),
characterization
and
experimental data of the optical properties, theoretical models for pertinent materials, and
optimization studies with regard to practical applications. The goal is to bridge the gap between
fundamental materials sciences and technological applications and to point out viable options for
future research and development. The focus is on basic concepts and ideas rather than physical
and mathematical details.
Objectives:
At the end of this course, a student should have:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
Course Content:
Selective Surfaces: Thin Film Optics: Multilayers and the characteristic matrix, transparent and
absorbing films. Optical characterization of thin films: Measurements of optical constants and film
thickness determination; spectrophotometry and ellipsometry. Thin film technology: vacuum
technology and thin film fabrication; vacuum deposition of thin films, electrochemical deposition,
electroless deposition and spray pyrolysis. Applications: spectral selectivity, photothermal solar
energy conversion; solar absorptance and thermal emittance; heat mirrors; transparent insulation;
chromogenics; smart windows and supersmart window materials.
Photovoltaics: Physics of photovoltaics, interaction of light with semiconductors and the basic
equations of device physics. Efficiency and its limiting factors: dark and illuminated
characteristics, solar cell output parameters, effect of temperature and efficiency measurements.
Solar cell materials and processing: monocrystalline, semicrystalline and amorphous silicon,
heterojunction and thin film cells, CdS and GaAs solar cells.
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Lab: Associated practical lab: 3 hrs/week
Assessment:
Continuous Assessment 40%, Final examination 60%
Prerequisites: P421, P422, P485
Prescribed Texts:
1. R. J. Van Overstraeten and R. P. Mertens, Physics, Technology and Use of Photovoltaics,
Adam Hilger, Bristol, 1986. ISBN: 10:0852744870
2. O. P. Agnihotri and B. K. Gupta, Solar Selective Surfaces, John Wiley & Sons, New York,
1981. ISBN: 13:978-0471060352
3. H. P. Garg, A Treatise on Solar Energy, Vol. 1: Fundamentals of Solar Energy, John Wiley &
Sons, Chichester, 1982. ISBN: 10:096014810300168X
Recommended Texts:
1. M. A. Green, Solar Cell Operating Principles, Technology and System Applications, Prentice
Prescribed Texts:
1. J. P. Peixoto and A. H. Oort, The Physics of Climate, American Institute of Physics, New York,
1992. ISBN: 10:0883187124
2. J. T. Houghton, Physics of the Atmosphere, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1977.
ISBN: 10:0521011221
Recommended Texts:
1. J. T. Houghton, G. J. Jenkins and J. J. Ephraums, The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) Scientific Assessment, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1990 and 1992.
ISBN: 10:0521407206
2. P.C. Jain, T.B. Chibuye and P.O. Kruss (Editors), Renewable Energy (Special Issue).
Proceedings of the Regional Workshop on Solar Radiation, Environment and Climate Change
held at the University of Zambia, 22-27 July, 1991. Pergamon Press (Oxford, 1993).
PHY 5832: PHYSICS OF THE ATMOSPHERE AND THE CLIMATE II
Rationale:
It is well known that increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are
leading to one of the most potentially catastrophic environmental problem climate change.
Study of this subject has grown greatly in recent years. There is need to build high levels of the
human resource in this new field. Physics plays a pivotal role in the understanding, modelling and
prediction of climate. This course, which builds upon the P5831: Physics of the Atmosphere and
Climate I, teaches the physics of the atmosphere and the climate, and is designed to develop
manpower in this field.
Objectives:
At the end of this course, a student should be able to:
1. formulate exchange processes and cycles in the climate.
2. use tools for climate simulation and modelling.
3. analyze physical factors influencing the earths climate and vulnerability of human beings to
climate change.
Recommended Course Content:
Exchange Processes and Cycles - Exchange processes between the earth's surface and the
atmosphere: energy budget at the surface, momentum exchange, transfer of mechanical energy
to oceans, exchange of sensible heat and water vapour. Angular momentum balance and
observed cycle. The water cycle. Energetics: energy balance equations, observed energy
balance. Ocean-atmosphere heat engine: availability of energy in the atmosphere and ocean,
balance equations for kinetic and potential energy, observed energy cycle in the atmosphere and
oceans. Entropy in the climate system: balance equation of entropy, observed entropy budget of
the atmosphere.
Climate Variability and Modelling - Interannual and interdecadal variability in the climate system.
Quasibiennial oscillation, ENSO phenomenon, interdecadal fluctuations and trends. Climate
simulation: mathematical and physical structure of climate models, general circulation models,
statistical dynamic models, use and application of models.
Climate Change and Impacts - Climate change: past climatic changes, natural and
anthropogenic factors influencing climate, impact of climate change.
Time Allocation:
Lectures: 3 hrs/week Tutorial: 1 hr/week
Associated practical lab: 3 hrs/week
Assessment:
Continuous Assessment 40%, Final Examination 60%
Prerequisites: P485, P583
Prescribed Texts:
1. J. P. Peixoto and A. H. Oort, The Physics of Climate, American Institute of Physics, New York,
1992. ISBN: 10:0883187124
2. J. T. Houghton, Physics of the Atmosphere, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1977.
ISBN: 10:0521011221
3. W. M. Washington and C. L. Parkinson, An Introduction to Three-dimensional Climate
Modelling, University Science Books, 2005. ISBN: 1-891389-35-1
Recommended Texts:
1. J. T. Houghton, G. J. Jenkins and J. J. Ephraums, The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) Scientific Assessment, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1990 and 1992.
ISBN: 13:978-051407205
2. P. C. Jain, T. Chibuye and P. D. Kruss (Editors), Renewable Energy (Special issue).
Proceedings of the Regional Workshop on Solar Radiation, Environment and Climate Change
held at the University of Zambia, 22-27 July, 1991, Pergamon Press, Oxford, 1993.