Physics III is the third semester of a three-course introductory sequence (P221, P222, and P301) to the central topics in classical and modern physics.

Physics III covers the fundamental physical laws and phenomena that have only recently (within the last century) been uncovered - hence the name "Modern Physics". The two cornerstones of modern physics are the theory of relativity and quantum mechanics. We will cover in some detail the special theory of relativity which relates time and space measurements between moving (inertial) frames of reference. An introduction to quantum mechanics, drawing experimental examples from the periodic table, atoms, and molecules, will make up the largest part of the course. In final part of the course we will learn about some aspects of condensed matter, nuclear, and particle physics.

Many of these topics will challenge your intuition and tax your mathematical ability. However, these topics form the core concepts in physics today and it is important to master them in order to understand the universe in which we live.

• P222 or
• P202 (with consent of instructor)

This second edition textbook will be a good guide for our study of Modern Physics. In the first 2 parts, it contains a wealth of information on the two main topics that we will study: special relativity and quantum mechanics. We will sample sections from parts 3 and 4 in the later part of the semester. The are many "optional" sections that we will draw from occasionally. You are encouraged to read them all even if we do not cover completely in class.

Reading assignments will be listed in the syllabus. You should read the material before the lecture that covers that material. Then read it again after, and once more while doing the homework problems. The material is weighty and, sometime, counter-intuitive. It takes repetition to "get it".

Unlike some modern physics textbooks, this book does not have a review chapter at the beginning. We will do some review in the first lecture, but you will have to refer to your old books on your own as well.

There is a checklist of concepts at the end of each chapter. This is handy reference to consult for the main topics and formulas covered in each chapter.

The problems at the end of each chapter are numerous and good. Our homework assignments will be drawn from these. You should work many on your own as you read the chapter. Solutions to the odd-numbered problems are in the back of the book. The problems are coded with bullets to indicate level of difficulty. Use these to gauge your mastery of the material. There are also a few "computer problems" for each chapter. Give some of these a try. In fact, they could be the basis for the "supplemental project" that is required for this class (see below).

Here is list of other useful books that will be kept on reserve:

• H.C. Ohanian, Special Relativity: a Modern Introduction, 1st ed., 2001.
• P.A. Tipler and R.A. Llewellyn, Modern Physics, 3rd ed., Freeman, 1999.
• A. Beiser, Concepts of Modern Physics, 5th ed., McGraw-Hill, 1995.
• K.S. Krane, Modern Physics, 2nd ed., Wiley, 1996.
• R. Eisberg and R. Resnick, Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles, 2nd ed., Wiley, 1985.

• Three in-class exams - 36%
• Final exam - 20%
• Homework - 34%
• Course project - 10%

Homework will be due by 5pm on the day that is it due (see the syllabus for due dates). Hand the assignment in during class on that day, or put in my Swain West mailbox (in SW117A).

• a detailed explanation and further work on a homework problem,
• a solution of the "computer problems" from the book,
• a report on a "modern physics" topic of your interest,
• an investigation into scientific news item from the popular press.