Text Book: Modern Physics 3rd Ed by Paul Tipler& Ralph A. Llewellyn 1999.
Professor: Dr. Mesgun Sebhatu, Sims 203. Office hrs: 10-10:50 MWF. Available at other times by appointment
Tel: 2113 x 6435(Office), 324-1254 (Home) E-mail: sebhatum@winthrop.edu
Modern physics refers to physics developed in the 20th century. It includes, the special and general theory of relativity, quantum theory, as well as nuclear and particle physics. These topics are challenging both conceptually and mathematically. They are, however, the basis for all the technological wonders and scientific developments we see and hear about. A course in modern physics is indispensable for any one contemplating a career or profession in the sciences and engineering. The major objective of the course is to provide a student majoring in the physical sciences a mastery of the basic concepts in relativity and quantum physics and explore some of its applications in various fields.
Tentative Course Outline and Test Schedule
I. Introduction (Ch. 0)
Relativity (Ch 1` and Ch. 2)
Test #1: Friday Sept. 17 (Chapters 0, 1 and 2))
II. Quantization of Charge, Light. And Energy(Ch. 3)
The Nuclear Atom Ch. 4)
The Wave Like Properties of Particles (Ch. 5)
Test #2 : Thursday Oct. 15 Chs 3, 4 & 5)
III The Schrodinger Equation (Ch. 6)
Atomic Physics (Ch. 7)
Statistical Physics Ch. 8)
Test #3: Thursday Nov. 5 (Chapters 6, 7 and 8)
IV. Nuclear Physics(Ch. 11)
Nuclear Reactions & Applications(Ch. 12)
Particle Physics (Ch 13)
Astrophysics and Cosmology (Ch 14)
Test #4: Thursday Dec. 3 (Chapters 11,12,13, &14)
A comprehensive final on parts I to IV. See Fall 99 final Exam Schedule for date and time
Computation of Final Grades : The best three test grades will contribute 16.67% each (total from tests = 50%). Homework grades will contribute 20%. The comprehensive final will contribute 30%.
50%(3 Tests) + 20%(Homework) + 30%(final) = 100 %
Even though class grade distribution affects the assignment of the letter grades, usually above 90% is an "A", 80% - 89% is a "B", 70% - 79% is a "C", 60% - 69% is a "D", and below 60% is an "F".
Make Up Tests: If a student misses one test, he obtains a "0" for it and loses the opportunity to have his worst test score dropped. It will be dangerous to miss more than one test. There are no provisions for make up tests under normal circumstances.
Class Attendance Policy: The attendance policy followed in this course is the same as that which appears on the current Winthrop University Catalog. Briefly, "If a student's absences in a course total 25% or more of the class meetings for the course, the student will receive a grade of N, F, or U, which ever is appropriate." Please read your catalog for details. In a small class such as PHYS 301, the professor will be able to see who is absent. There will be no need for formal roll call. Students who leave early or come excessively late for reasons not clear to the professor will be marked absent.