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Unit of study_
PHYS3936: Condensed Matter and Particle Phys (Adv)
2024 unit information
Condensed matter physics is the science behind semiconductors and all modern electronics, while particle physics describes the very fabric of our Universe. Surprisingly these two seemingly separate aspects of physics use in part very similar formalisms. This selective unit in the physics major will provide an introduction to both these fields, complemented with experimental labs. You will study the basic constituents of matter, such as quarks and leptons, examining their fundamental properties and interactions. You will gain understanding of extensions to the currently accepted Standard Model of particle physics, and on the relationships between high energy particle physics, cosmology and the early Universe. You will study condensed matter systems, specifically the physics that underlies the electromagnetic, thermal, and optical properties of solids. You will discuss recent discoveries and new developments in semiconductors, nanostructures, magnetism, and superconductivity. The advanced stream has more open-ended experimental physics projects: You will learn and apply new experimental and data analysis techniques by designing and carrying out in-depth experimental investigations on selected topics in physics, with expert tutoring. In completing this unit you will gain understanding of the foundations of modern physics and develop skills in experimental physics, measurement, and data analysis.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Science
| Study level | Undergraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Physics Academic Operations |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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Average of 70 or above in [(PHYS2011 OR PHYS2911 OR PHYS2921) AND (PHYS2012 OR PHYS2912 OR PHYS2922)] |
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Corequisites:
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PHYS3034 OR PHYS3934 OR [(PHYS3042 OR PHYS3942 OR PHYS3043 OR PHYS3943 OR PHYS3044 OR PHYS3944) AND (PHYS3090 OR PHYS3990 OR PHYS3991)] |
| Prohibitions:
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PHYS3099 or PHYS3999 or PHYS3036 or PHYS3068 or PHYS3968 or PHYS3069 or PHYS3969 or PHYS3074 or PHYS3974 or PHYS3080 or PHYS3980 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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Students will need to have some knowledge of special relativity, for example from prior study of PHYS2013 or PHYS2913, or from studying Chapter 12 of Introduction to Electrodynamics by D.J. Griffith. (MATH2021 OR MATH2921 OR MATH2061 OR MATH2961 OR MATH2067) |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. demonstrate an understanding of key concepts in two areas of physics – particle physics and condensed matter physics
- LO2. apply these concepts to develop models, and to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in scientific contexts, using appropriate mathematical and computing techniques as necessary
- LO3. carry out and analyse experiments to measure specific effects
- LO4. compare and critique experimental approaches
- LO5. communicate scientific information appropriately, through written work
- LO6. demonstrate a sense of responsibility, ethical behaviour, and independence as a learner and as a scientist.
Unit availability
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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