PHY316 Modern Physics (8)

Modern Physics focuses on a body of knowledge necessary to examine the fundamental physical principles of the universe. By exploring historic experiments and utilising theories developed in classical physics, students will make amendments to classical theories and derive theories that comprise modern physics. This will be achieved through a study of electromagnetism, relativity and quantum mechanics. Practical experience is developed through experimentation with quantum processes, developing skills in data analysis, and demonstration of concepts.

Availability

Session 2 (60)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: PHY316. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Dentistry and Health Sciences

Enrolment Restrictions

This subject cannot be taken by a student who has already completed PHY216 Modern Physics.

Prerequisites

PHY102

Subject Relationships

PHY102 PHY102 Electricity and Waves is a prerequisite for the subject.
PHY216 This subject is to replace PHY216 Modern Physics.

Incompatible Subjects

PHY216

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • examine theories and experimentation in both classical and modern physics.
  • utilise, identify and apply theories and equations in modern physics to conceptually/analytically solve problems, obtain values/model results and communicate information to an audience.
  • apply electromagnetism, relativity and quantum mechanics to analyse and evaluate results of atomic, molecular and nuclear physics.
  • conduct experiments of both classical and modern processes with developed skills in the generation and analysis of data to demonstrate and communicate concepts.
  • establish theories/derive equations within modern physics.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Electromagnetic waves
  • Relativity
  • Quantum physics & quantum mechanics
  • Atomic physics & molecular physics

Residential School

This subject contains a 3 day Compulsory Residential School.

The residential school will provide an opportunity to complete a practical component of the subject which is an essential part of physics studies as it develops skills in simple experimental design, use of experimental equipment,  equipment setup (for example; calibrating equipment, equipment installation, etc.), data acquisition, critical thinking, data analysis and communication of results. This exposure to the experimental side of modern physics will further extend understandings in both the experimental and theoretical nature of modern physics studies.

Special Resources

Travel and accommodation may be required for students to attend the compulsory residential school at Charles Sturt's Wagga Wagga campus. All students are required to have a lab coat, safety glasses and covered footwear for lab based practicals.

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2021. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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