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Physics in the Smartphone
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:35:09
Abstract
Physics in today's high-tech smartphone. Examples: network topology and scratch proof glass, spin-orbit coupling - brighter displays, GPS and general theory of relativity, electromagnetic response of matter (transparent metals for displays, GPS signal propagation), light-field cameras, CCD and CMOS light sensors, physics stops Moore's law, meta-materials for antennas, MEMS sensor physics, etc.
Objective
Students recognize and appreciate the enormous impact "physics" has on today's high tech world. Abstract concepts, old and recent, encountered in the lectures are implemented and present all around us. Students are actively involved in the preparation and presentation of the topics, and thus acquire valuable professional skills.
Content
We explore how traditional and new physics concepts and achievements make their way into today's ubiquitous high-tech gadget : the smartphone. Examples of topics include: network topology and scratch proof Gorilla glass, spin-orbit coupling makes for four times brighter displays, no GPS without general theory of relativity, electromagnetic response of matter (transparent metals for displays, GPS signal propagation in the atmosphere), lightfield cameras replacing CCD and CMOS light sensors, physical limitations to IC scaling: the end of "Moore's law", meta-materials for antennas, physics of the various MEMS sensors, etc., etc.,
Resources
Lecture Notes
The presentation material and original literature will be distributed weekly.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- DZ , SHE , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 20 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise |
Physics in the Smartphone
Does not take place this semester.
|
No time listed | 3 h weekly |
Offered In
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Physics Teaching Diploma (Detailed information on the programme at: )
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Spec. Courses in Resp. Subj. w/ Educ. Focus & Further Subj. Didactics (Core courses that counted towards the Bachelor or Master programme in physics or comprised additional admission requirements in subject didactics are not eligible for the teaching diploma.)
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Physics TC (Detailed information on the programme at: )
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