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Physics III
Physik III
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:29:46
Abstract
Introductory course on quantum and atomic physics including optics and statistical physics.
Objective
A basic introduction to quantum and atomic physics, including basics of optics and equilibrium statistical physics. The course will focus on the relation of these topics to experimental methods and observations.
Content
Geometrical and wave optics: lenses, imaging systems, refraction and Fermat's principle, reflection, interference, Fabry-Perot etalons, interferometers, spectrometers. Statistical physics: probability distributions, ideal gases, equipartition theorem, equations of state, Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution, Blackbody radiation Introduction to quantum physics: photons, photoelectric effect, Thomson and Rutherford scattering, Compton scattering, Bohr's model of the atom, deBroglie matter waves. Quantum mechanics: wave-particle duality, wavefunctions, operators, Schrödinger equation, Potential wells, harmonic oscillator. Quantum mechanics of atoms: Coulomb portential, hydrogen atom, atomic orbitals, spin, Zeeman effect, spin-orbit coupling, multielectron atoms, selection rules, absorption and emission of radiation.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Electronic copes of all lecture materials will be available, including a script. Several books are recommended as supplementary reading.
Literature
Optional recommended books (in German) M. Alonso, E. J. Finn. Quantenphysik und Statistische Physik. (R. Oldenbourg Verlag, München, 5. Auflage) ISBN 978-3-486-71340-4 R. Feynmann, R. Leighton and M. Sands. The Feynmann Lectures on Physics, vol 1. (chapters 26 and 27) http://www.feynmanlectures.caltech.edu/ H. Hecht, Optics, ISBN 0-321-18878-0 F. Mandl, Statistical Physics, ISBN 0-471-91532-7 C. Kittel, Thermal Physics, ISBN 0-716-71088-9 H. Hakan and H. C. Wolf, The Physics of Atoms and Quanta, ISBN 978-3-642-05871-4
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- written 180 minutes
- Aids
- Students are allowed to bring five A4-sheets of paper with notes, and can be written on both sides. Calculators are permitted but must not be used to store information or communicate. Formularies are allowed.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Physik III (Physics III) |
|
4 h weekly |
| exercise |
Physik III (Physics III)
Possible options to be discussed when lecture starts:
Language English, German and even Italian or French is possible
|
|
2 h weekly |