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Advanced Physics for Students of Environmental and Earth Sciences
Fortgeschrittene Physik für Umwelt- und ErdwissenschaftlerInnen
Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:33:27
Abstract
Basic concepts of quantum and nuclear physics with emphasis on environmental and earth science aspects
Objective
This lecture is an introduction to so-called "modern physics". The basics of quantum and nuclear physics are taught and general approaches to solving quantum mechanical and nuclear physics problems are developed. The ability to independently solve simple problems from the covered subject areas is achieved. Particular emphasis is put on understanding experimental methods for observing physical phenomena.
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
- 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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Vertiefung Klima und Wasser (Für Beratungen in der Vertiefung Klima und Wasser steht Dr. Hanna Joos, Institut für Klima und Atmosphäre, zur Verfügung.)
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Wahlfächer (Den Studierenden steht zusätzlich das gesamte Lehrangebot der ETH Zürich und der Universität Zürich zur Auswahl offen. Für Studierende, die sich für den Fokus "Space Systems" interessieren, werden folgende Wahlfächer dringend empfohlen: - 701-0106-00L Mathematik V: Angewandte Vertiefung von Mathematik I - III)
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