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Advanced Physics for Students of Environmental and Earth Sciences
Fortgeschrittene Physik für Umwelt- und ErdwissenschaftlerInnen
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:07:16
Abstract
Basic concepts of quantum and nuclear physics with emphasis on environmental and earth science aspects
Objective
This lecture is an introduction to the so-called "modern physics". It discusses phenomena that can no longer be described with the classical ideas of mechanics and classical electrodynamics. The fundamentals of quantum and nuclear physics will be taught and their significance in environmental and earth sciences will be demonstrated. In selected examples and numerous demonstration experiments phenomena will be discussed which can only be explained by quantum mechanical or nuclear physical models.
Content
Quantum physics: Basics of quantum mechanics: Planck's radiation related to the Earth's radiation budget and climate, photoelectric effect, matter waves, uncertainty relation, Schrödinger equation, box potential, tunnel effect, harmonic oscillator. Atomic and molecular physics: Hydrogen atom, energy states, absorption and emission of electromagnetic radiation, molecular oscillation states, laser. Nuclear physics: Structure of the atomic nucleus (nuclear models, nuclear forces), radioactivity (types of decay), interaction of radiation with matter, detection of radioactive radiation, radiation effect and radiation dose, nuclear fission and fusion, natural and artificial radioactivity in the environment, radioisotopes as natural tracers.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Script is distributed in the lecture. Further documents on special topics will be handed out.
Literature
- H. Haken, H. C. Wolf: Atom- und Quantenphysik, 8. Aufl. (Springer, 2004) - K. Bethge, G. Walter, B. Wiedemann: Kernphysik, 2. Aufl. (Springer, 2001)
Learning Materials (Links)
- Main link
- Information
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC , GS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Fortgeschrittene Physik für Umwelt- und ErdwissenschaftlerInnen |
|
4 h weekly |
| exercise |
Fortgeschrittene Physik für Umwelt- und ErdwissenschaftlerInnen
Beginn in der 2. Semesterwoche
|
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Electives (The electives listed are recommended. Additional courses can be chosen from the complete offerings of the ETH Zurich and University of Zurich.)
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