Graduate Course AtlasFall Semester 2008
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PHYSICS 503A: Classical Mechanics I
Content: An advanced-level graduate course on classical mechanics. Topics to be covered include: Lagrangian mechanics; conservation laws; integration of equations of motion; central forces and planetary motion; collisions between particles; small oscillations; motions of rigid bodies; motion in non-inertial frames; Hamilton's equations. Particulars: Prerequisite-Consent of instructor.
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PHYSICS 506A: Quantum Physics I
Content: General formulation of quantum mechanics and applications to various types of problems including: matrix formulation, quantization of physical observables, time evolution of a system state, perturbation theory, theory of angular momentum, two level systems, magnetic dipole-dipole interactions, spin-orbit interactions, anomalous Zeeman effect, exchange degeneracy and systems of identical particles, atomic structures, and scattering theory. Particulars: Grades are based on homework assignments and class presentations. Problems are assigned on a regular basis. Subjects of presentations will be assigned by the instructor with the consent of the presenting students. Prerequisite-Physics 503A or consent of the instructor. |
PHYSICS 506B: Quantum Mechanics II
Content: Fundamental postulates, concepts, and methods of quantum mechanics and their applications to various types of problems. Emphases will be placed on both the technical aspects of the theory and issues of interpretation posted by quantum theory. Particulars: Prerequisite-Consent of the instructor.
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PHYSICS 544: Advanced Laboratory
Content: Modern experimental techniques and hands-on laboratory projects, including semiconductor device physics, chaos in electronics, X-ray crystallography, and astronomical photometry. Particulars: Prerequisite-Physics 253 AND consent of the instructor. Each student will complete written reports for at least three experimental projects. All students must register for both T 2:30-5:30 and W 2:30-5:30.
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PHYSICS 552: Biomacromolecules
Content: This course is meant to provide physics graduate students, in their first year of study, and advanced undergraduates with the fundamental knowledge necessary to practice research in biophysics. Toward this goal, the first part of the course will introduce the concept of atomic (electronic) structure, including molecular orbitals and basic ligand field theory, pertinent to the discussion of the nature of the chemical bonds involved in the structure and function of biomacromolecules. The course will then discuss the interaction of biomacromolecules with different types of environments. The concepts of acids, bases, pH and buffer effects will be introduced along with those of membranes and Brownian motion. Subsequently, polymer chain statistics will be thoroughly discussed, followed by an analysis of binding interactions including a discussion of ensemble versus single-molecule analysis especially in relation to conformational changes, molecular motors. The course will conclude with a section dedicated to reaction dynamics: kinetics, especially enzyme kinetics, also at the single-molecule level. Audience: Graduates and advanced undergraduates Particulars: There are no a prior prerequisites given the nature of the course which is aimed at providing the basic tools for the understanding of the biochemical and biophysical behavior of macromolecules as a function of their environment. |
PHYSICS 597R: Directed Study (M.A.)
Prerequisite: (Written Permission of Instructor Required Prior to Pre-Registration) |
PHYSICS 599R: Thesis Research
Prerequisite: (Written Permission of Instructor Required Prior to Pre-Registration) |
PHYSICS 731R: Special Topics in Theoretical Physics
Prerequisite: (Written Permission of Instructor Required Prior to Pre-Registration) |
PHYSICS 741R: Special Topics in Nuclear Physics
Prerequisite: (Written Permission of Instructor Required Prior to Pre-Registration) |
PHYSICS 751R: Polymer Physics
Content: Polymer structures and conformations, polymer synthesis, molecular weight distribution and characterization; properties of polymer solutions, solubility and miscibility, polymer blends; properties of bulk polymers, glass and melt transitions, crystallization, rubber elasticity, viscous flow and viscoelasticity, time-temperature superposition; polymer dynamics, Rouse and reptation models. This course is intended to give students an overview of important concepts in polymer science, and highlight some of the current areas of research and how it relates to technological applications. Audience: Advanced undergraduates in physics and chemistry, and graduate students. Particulars: Permission of Instructor |
PHYSICS 797R: Directed Study (Ph.D.)
Particulars: (Written Permission of Instructor Required Prior to Pre-Registration) |
PHYSICS 799R: Advanced Research
Prerequisite: (Written Permission of Instructor Required Prior to Pre-Registration) |
