Department Head R. Knobel
Chair of Undergraduate Studies J. Stotz
Undergraduate Assistant Melissa Balson
Department Office Stirling Hall, Room 205
Email 4mjb5@queensu.ca
Telephone (613) 533-2707
Departmental Web Site http://www.queensu.ca/physics
Core courses in the Engineering Physics plan provide the student with fundamental physical principles and theoretical tools for professional practice as well as a firm foundation in modern experimental techniques. To relate these abilities to the attitudes and knowledge of other engineering disciplines, the plan has four sub-plans: electrical, materials, mechanical, and computing. These sub-plans provide a sequence of courses in other engineering departments and thus provide career or graduate studies opportunities in both engineering and applied physics.
Note: Students will not be registered in any core second year engineering physics courses until they have passed all the required first year mathematics and physics courses. It is strongly recommended that students have a grade of C- or better in the first year mathematics and physics courses.
Fourth year elective courses must be chosen such that at the end of the academic plan each student meets or exceeds the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB) program requirements. A spreadsheet will be provided by the Undergraduate Chair to aid fourth year students with their course selection.
Options available:
- Electrical Option
- Materials Option
- Mechanical Option
- Computing Option
Courses
This course stresses the creation of physical models for real systems. Applications of vibrational motion are developed and a basic description of the properties of elastic media given. The methods required to predict the performance of physical or engineering systems are demonstrated using examples drawn from various fields of science and engineering with emphasis on mechanics and vibrations, waves and optics.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
Introduction to the use of numerical methods in solving physics and engineering problems. A high-level language appropriate for engineering, such as Python, will be introduced and used throughout the course. Possible topics to be covered include numerical differentiation and integration (with applications in error propagation), root finding and optimization problems (including curve fitting), solution of linear systems of equations, finite-element modelling, fast Fourier transforms and Monte Carlo simulations.
(Lec: 2, Lab: 1.5, Tut: 0.5)
Extension of classical mechanics and engineering applications. Plane dynamics, relative motion and forces in moving and accelerated reference frames. Introduction to general three-dimensional motion of a rigid body, inertia tensor and steady-state precession. The laws of conservation of mass, momentum and energy.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
The experimental basis and mathematical description of electrostatics, magnetostatics and electromagnetic induction, together with a discussion of the properties of dielectrics and ferromagnetics, are presented. Both the integral and vector forms of Maxwell's equations are deduced.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
Evidence for relativistic effects. Kinematics and dynamics in special relativity, Minkowski diagram, applications. Evidence for quanta, spectra, Bohr atom, quantum statistics. Descriptive nuclear physics, radioactivity, elementary particles.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
The demonstration of the basic techniques of the engineering physicist in the measurement of electric, magnetic, thermal and mechanical properties. The emphasis is on correct measurement techniques, treatment of results and the presentation of data. Error and uncertainties in experimental measurement, the propagation of errors. Probability and the Binomial, Poisson and Gaussian distribution functions, fitting of Poisson and Gaussian distributions to a sample population. Linear least squares fit, chi-squared.
COURSE DELETED 2012-2013
(Lec: 1, Lab: 3, Tut: 0.25)
Error and uncertainties in experimental measurement, the propagation of errors. Probability and the Binomial, Poisson and Gaussian distribution functions, fitting of Poisson and Gaussian distributions to a sample population. Linear least-squares fitting, chi-squared. The graphical treatment and presentation of data; regression and power law analyses.
COURSE DELETED 2021-2022
(Lec: 1, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.25)
The demonstration of the basic techniques of the engineering physicist in the measurement of electric, magnetic and mechanical properties. The emphasis is on correct measurement techniques, error analysis, treatment of results and the presentation of data.
K3.5(Lec: Yes, Lab: Yes, Tut: Yes)
Methods of mathematics important for physicists. Complex arithmetic, series expansions and approximations of functions, Fourier series and transforms, vector spaces and eigenvalue problems, and differential equations.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
A continuation of PHYS 316. Partial differential equations, functions of a complex variable and contour integration, and special topics such as probability and statistics, group theory and non-linear dynamics
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
An introduction to the equations of mechanics using the Lagrange formalism and to the calculus of variations leading to Hamilton's principle. The concepts developed in this course are applied to problems ranging from purely theoretical constructs to practical applications. Links to quantum mechanics and extensions to continuous systems are developed.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
An introduction to electromagnetic theory and some of its applications. Topics are: Maxwell's equations, properties of waves in free space, dielectrics, conductors and ionized media, reflection and refraction at the surfaces of various media, radiation of electromagnetic waves, antennae, wave-guides, and optical fibers.
COURSE DELETED 2012-2013
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
The design of electronic circuits and systems, using commonly available devices and integrated circuits. The properties of linear circuits are discussed with particular reference to the applications of feedback; operational amplifiers are introduced as fundamental building blocks. Digital circuits are examined and the properties of the commonly available I.C. types are studied; their use in measurement, control and signal analysis is outlined. Laboratory work is closely linked with lectures and provides practical experience of the subjects covered in lectures.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 1.5, Tut: 0.5)
This course deals with the fundamental concepts of solid state materials and the principles of operation of modern electronic and optoelectronic devices. Topics in materials include crystal structure, energy bands, carrier processes and junctions. Topics in device operation include p-n junction diodes, bipolar junction transistors, field-effect junction transistors, metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors, and optoelectronic devices.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.25)
Matter waves. Postulates of wave mechanics. Stationary states and one-dimensional potentials. Particle tunnelling and scattering states. Introduction to matrix mechanics and Dirac notation. Quantized angular momentum, and the H atom.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
Spin. Addition of angular momentum. Many electron atoms and the periodic table. Introduction to perturbation theory and Fermi's golden rule. Time dependent perturbations, including stimulated emission. Introduction to nuclear and particle physics.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
A course on the design of advanced physics experiments. Students learn advanced measurement techniques in the context of modern physics experiments, including nanoscience, quantum physics, optics and particle physics. The lectures cover probability and the statistical interpretation of data, methods of measurement, and how to design an experiment. Students spend the majority of the term on an experimental project of their choosing, researching, assembling, carrying out the experiment, analyzing and presenting the results.
(Lec: 1, Lab: 1.5, Tut: 0)
Students will apply technical knowledge, models, and computer-aided design tools to solve an open-ended design problem. The students will work in teams to design, built, and test a prototype device. The lectures provide background on the physics and engineering of the device and introduce the design tools and techniques that will be required to complete the project.
(Lec: 1, Lab: 2.5, Tut: 0)
Temperature, equations of state, internal energy, first and second laws, entropy and response functions. Application to heat engines and refrigerators. Free energies, Legendre transformations, changes of phase. Introduction to the Boltzmann factor and statistical mechanics. First offering in winter 2013.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
Einstein's theory of gravity is developed from fundamental principles to a level which enables the student to read some of the current literature. Includes an introduction to computer algebra, an essential element of a modern introduction to Einstein's theory.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0)
An introduction to electromagnetic theory and some of its applications. Topics are: Maxwell's equations, properties of waves in free space, dielectrics, conductors and ionized media, reflection and refraction at the surfaces of various media, radiation of electromagnetic waves, antennae, wave-guides, and optical fibers.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
Perturbation theory. Scattering theory. Addition of angular momentum. Special topics: Many electron systems. Path integral formulation of quantum mechanics. Entanglement and quantum computing.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0)
This course provides students in Engineering Physics with experience in a range of advanced experimental techniques and analysis. A balanced selection of experiments are performed from fields including nuclear physics, applied physics, solid state physics, low temperature physics, and optics.
(Lec: 0, Lab: 3.5, Tut: 0)
This course provides engineering physics students with a complete experience in advanced design and implementation. Working in groups, students undertake a large design project of their choice that reflects and further develops their knowledge of physics and engineering design. The students then build a prototype of their design to demonstrate the feasibility of project within the design constraints.
(Lec: 0, Lab: 4.5, Tut: 0)
Students will be assigned individual design topics of the type a practicing engineering physicist might expect to encounter. They must develop a solution under the supervision of a faculty member, and give oral and written presentations to an examining committee. Grades will be based on the quality of the analysis of the problem, the proposed solution, and the written and oral presentations. The demonstration of effective written and oral communications skills is required.
(Lec: 0, Lab: 0, Tut: 4)
Students will be assigned individual research topics. Students must work under the supervision of a faculty member. Grade will be based on the progress in arriving at a solution to the assigned problem.
(Lec: 0, Lab: 0, Tut: 2)
Continuation of ENPH 456. Upon completion of their thesis, students must give oral and written presentations to an examining committee. Grades will be based on the quality of the analysis of the problem, the proposed solution, and written and oral presentations. Demonstration of effective written and oral communications skills is required.
(Lec: 0, Lab: 0, Tut: 9)
Topics and applications in modern physical optics, culminating with the development of the laser and its current applications. Topics include: Gaussian beam propagation, optical resonators, Fourier optics, fiber optics, holography, light-matter interaction using classical and semi-classical models, and the basic theory and types of lasers.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
Phase space, the ergodic hypothesis and ensemble theory. Canonical and grand canonical ensembles. Partition functions. Ideal quantum gases. Classical gases and the liquid vapour transition. Introduction to techniques for interacting systems, including Monte Carlo simulations.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
A course to teach students how to use the tools of high performance computing facilities, and to have them employ these tools and various common numerical algorithms in the solution of numerical physics and engineering physics projects.
(Lec: 2, Lab: 0, Tut: 2)
An introduction to the properties of insulators, semiconductors and metals. Topics include: crystal structure, X-ray and neutron scattering, the reciprocal lattice, phonons, electronic energy bands, and the thermal, magnetic, optical and transport properties of solids.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
A course in the physics underlying solid state electronic and optical devices. The course presents an introduction to the electrical and optical properties of insulators, semiconductors and metals, including crystal structure, band theory, and electron transport. This is applied to obtain a physical understanding of the physics governing the behaviour of diodes, field effect and bipolar transistors, and other discrete optical and electronic devices.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
An examination of the key ideas, techniques and technologies in the fields of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Emphasis will be placed on the physics involved, measurement techniques, and technological applications. Topics covered are selected from the following: electrical and optical properties of quantum dots, quantum wires and nanotubes; quantum information technology; mesoscopic electronics; nanostructures on surfaces; and scanning-probe and optical microscopy.
NOT OFFERED 2022-2023
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
A systematic introduction to low energy nuclear physics for advanced physics students. Lecture topics are: nucleon-nucleon forces, structure of nuclei, nuclear models, radioactivity, detection of nuclear radiation, electromagnetic, weak and strong interactions and an introduction to particle physics.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
The fundamental physics associated with a nuclear reactor. Emphasis will be on the interaction of neutrons, reactor kinetics and calculations required in reactor design. Topics discussed include: brief review of basic nuclear physics, neutron interactions and cross-sections, neutron diffusion, neutron moderation, theory of reactors, changes in reactivity, control of reactors.
NOT OFFERED 2022-2023
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
An introduction to plasma physics. The motions of single particles under the influence of various fields is considered first, followed by a fluid description of plasma. Topics also include plasma properties, waves in plasma, equilibrium and stability.
NOT OFFERED 2022-2023
(Lec: 3.0, Lab: 0, Tut: 0.5)
Production and measurement of x-rays and charged particles for radiation therapy and nuclear medicine, interactions of radiation with matter and biological materials, interaction coefficients and radiation dosimetry, radiation safety, physics of medical imaging with examples from nuclear medicine ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging.
(Lec: 3, Lab: 0, Tut: 0)
Undergraduate thesis for students enrolled in the Accelerated Masters Program in Engineering Physics. They must develop an engineering solution to an assigned program under the supervision of a faculty member and give oral and written presentations to an examining committee. Grades will be based on the quality of the analysis of the problem, the proposed solution, and the written and oral presentations. The demonstration of effective written and oral communications skills is required. Students in the Accelerated Masters program are expected to work the summer before with the supervisor.
K4(Lec: 0, Lab: 0, Tut: 0)