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.
Introduction to the use of numerical methods in solving physics and engineering problems. A high-level language appropriate for engineering, such as MATLAB, will be introduced and used throughout the course. Possible topics to be covered include numerical differentiation and integration, root finding and optimization problems, solution of linear systems of equations, finite-element modelling, fast Fourier transforms and Monte Carlo simulations.
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.
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.
Evidence for relativistic effects. Kinematics and dynamics in special relativity, space-time diagrams, applications. Evidence for quanta, spectra, Bohr atom. Introduction to the Schroedinger equation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 in the subjects covered in lectures.
An examination of the basic phenomena of semiconductor physics and their application in diodes, transistors, optical detectors, and lasers. The laboratory illustrates the use of semiconductor devices in electronic circuits. (0/10/2/28/8)~ COURSE DELETED IN 2008/09 ~
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.
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. (5/30/0/4/0) ~ COURSE DELETED IN 2008/09 ~
Wave description of matter. Schrodinger equation, angular momentum, tunneling. Application to atomic structure, spectra, the electron gas and quantum systems. (4/28/0/4/0)~ COURSE DELETED IN 2008/09 ~
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.
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.
Selected experiments in electron physics, quantum physics, nuclear physics and optics illustrating the development of modern physics concepts. The lectures cover methods of measurement of a wide range of quantities, with emphasis on instrumentation and equipment used in current physics and engineering practice. The laboratory work introduces advanced measurement techniques and important concepts in modern physics.
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.
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.
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.
The mathematical and physical foundations of quantum theory are formulated. The basic principles are illustrated by applications in atomic, molecular, nuclear and solid state physics. (4/20/0/12/0)~ COURSE DELETED 2009/10) ~
A continuation of quantum theory at a more advanced level. Topics include time-dependent perturbation theory, scattering theory and the quantum theory of many-particle systems. (0/36/0/0/0)~ COURSE DELETED IN 2009/10 ~
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.
This course covers perturbation theory, scattering theory and the addition of angular momentum. Special topics may include: many-electron systems, path integral formulation of quantum mechanics, entanglement and quantum computing, quantum optics.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 projects.
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.
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.
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.
A systematic introduction to nuclear and particle physics for advanced physics students. Topics include basic nuclear properties: size, mass, decay and reactions; shell model of nuclear structure; magnetic moments; gamma and beta decay; quark model of elementary particles; and strong, electromagnetic and weak interactions.
The objective of this course is the understanding of the fundamental physics associated with a nuclear reactor. Topics include a brief review of basic nuclear physics, neutron interactions and cross-sections, neutron diffusion, neutron moderation, theory of reactors, changes in reactivity, control of reactors. Offered in alternate years.
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.
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.