Module Number PHY000019M

Advanced Quantum Mechanics

Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Prof R W Godby
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Problem Classes:
3 x 1 hour
Private Study (incl. Physics practice 77.5 hours
questions:
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
100%
Closed Examination
100%
All core Quantum Mechnics modules Years 1-3, Mathematics 1-3,
Newtonian Mechanics (Y1), Physics of fields and Waves (especially
waves) (Y1), Electromagnetism and optics (especially EM waves)
(Y2)

Aims
To study the consequences of the time-dependence of the wavefunction in quantum
mechanics, the emergence of the basic laws of classical mechanics from quantum
mechanics, the quantum mechanics of many-particle systems, and second quantisation.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:
Calculate the time-dependence of a wavefunction, and its consequences for
observables.
Derive and apply the results of time-dependent perturbation theory up to first order.
Derive and apply Fermi's golden rule, and explain the relevance to selection rules for
atomic transitions.
Explain the origin of the laws of classical mechanics using simple calculations of the
types given in lectures.
Explain and apply the laws of quantum mechanics for many-particle systems and the
main techniques used to study their implications.
Derive the main results of second quantisation.
Describe, and apply to unseen problems, all the topics in the syllabus.
Comprehensive lecture notes should be taken down from the blackboard during
lectures, and will be supplemented by a one-page hand-out distributed on paper. This

2015/16

Module Number PHY000019M

Advanced Quantum Mechanics

Stage 4
Term 1
hand-out, together with audio recordings of lectures and a record of problems set,
lecture rescheduling and similar information, will be made available through the VLE.
Syllabus
Time-dependence: Brief review of time-dependent Schrdinger equation; stationary
states; time-evolution of general wavefunctions; time evolution operator; time-energy
uncertainty relation. Time-dependent perturbation theory. Fermi's golden rule;
selection rules for atomic transitions re-examined. Ehrenfests theorem. [5 lectures]
The classical limit: Classical mechanics of particles as a limit of quantum mechanics,
mostly studied through wavepacket motion. [2]
Many-particle systems: Identical particles and exchange symmetry, fermions and
bosons, the Pauli Principle; use of Slater determinants. Variational principle for manyelectron systems; the Hartree and Hartree-Fock approximations. Density-functional
theory and the local-density approximation. [5]
Second quantisation: Creation, annihilation and number operators; their use for manyparticle systems; anti-commutation relations; field operators; Heisenberg picture.
Introduction to many-body perturbation theory. Introduction to quantisation of the
electromagnetic field. [6]
Reading List
Rae A I M: Quantum mechanics (Taylor & Francis)***
Merzbacher E: Quantum mechanics (Wiley, 1998) **
Schiff L I: Quantum mechanics (McGraw-Hill) **
Ziman J M: Elements of advanced quantum theory (CUP)*

2015/16

Module Number PHY00014M

Astrophysical Plasmas
Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr N C Woolsey
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
Closed exam:
Problem Classes:
Private Study (incl. weekly
problems):
TOTAL:
Closed Examination
Closed Examination
Core Physics or equivalent

18 hours
1.5 hours
3 hours
77.5 hours
100 hours
100%
100%

Aims
Plasma is made up of electrons and ions, and these particles respond to magnetic and electric
fields that fill much of space between the interior of the Sun to the upper layers of the Earth's
atmosphere and beyond. The module will start with a description of astrophysical plasmas and an
introduction to basic plasma physics and gas dynamics. This introduction is followed by a
discussion of the dynamics of the interstellar medium, the processes that heat and cool
interstellar medium, and the effects of stellar winds, shocks, and jets. These processes are
presented in terms of a magneto-hydrodynamic plasma. This leads to the discussion of magnetic
fields, the acceleration of cosmic rays and an energy budget of the interstellar medium. Finally,
we discuss the use of laboratory plasma in the study of fundamental plasma processes that occur
in occur in astrophysical plasmas. The approach is to identify and use dimensionless scaling of
plasma models to illustrate how the enormous astrophysical scales are reduce to those typical of
an experiment. This then leads to a discussion of current research.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:

Module Number PHY00014M

Astrophysical Plasmas
Stage 4
Term 1

Define a plasma.

State typical characteristics of various astronomical plasmas

Outline the sources and losses of radiation in astronomical systems and effects this has on the
systems.

Understand the effect of stellar radiation on the surrounding interstellar medium.

Explain the role of collisions in gases and plasmas and the Coulomb logarithm.

Calculate particle motion in homogeneous and inhomogeneous magnetic fields.

State the limitations of guiding centre theory.

Apply guiding centre theory to description of energetic particles, and apply relativistic
corrections when necessary.

Determine when a fluid approximation can be applied to plasma

Outline the approximations used to derive hydrodynamic and magnetohydrodynamic models

and the need for an equation of state and Ohms law..

Write down a polytropic equation of state and explain the role of the polytropic index.

Describe viscosity and magnetic field diffusion and use the Rynolds number and magnetic
Reynold number to identify situations when viscosity and diffusion are not important.

Explain the concept of flux freezing.

State the origin of stellar winds, and explain why the Solar Wind is supersonic, describe
heliosphere and the interaction with a magnetosphere.

Derive Rankine-Hugoniot relations and be able to apply them to astrophysical phenomena in

the shock and stellar frame.

Explain the effects the equation of state, radiation and magnetic fields have on shocks.

Describe the evolution of supernova remnants and the impact these systems have on the
interstellar medium.

Explain evidence that suggests supernova remnants are the source of Galactic cosmic rays
and the importance of cosmic rays in the interstellar medium.

Describe 1st and 2nd order Fermi acceleration of charged particles.

Show how laboratory experiments can simulate aspects of astronomical plasmas.

Syllabus
I. Introduction to plasmas, gas dynamics and astrophysical plasmas
How information is obtained about astrophysical plasmas
The diversity of space and astrophysical plasmas

Module Number PHY00014M

Astrophysical Plasmas
Stage 4
Term 1
Introduction to plasma physics and gas dynamics
II. Astrophysical plasmas
Formation of plasmas in astrophysical environments
The phases of the interstellar medium
Stellar winds, Supernova explosions, remnants, and blast waves
Nebulae and Strmgren spheres
Cosmic rays
III. Experimental plasma astrophysics and high-energy-density plasma physics
Laboratory facilities
Supernovae hydrodynamic instabilities
Supernova remnants collisionless shocks
Protostellar jets radiative processes
Lecture notes
To obtain a good set of lecture notes and understanding of this module you should attend all
lectures. Lecture pace moderate with a chalk-and-talk delivery, supplemented via PowerPoint
and/or pdf presentation.
Lecture outlines are provided
Students will need to make their own core set of notes
Supplementary material, which includes handouts containing diagrams and
tabulated data, are provided during lectures, with copies stored on the module
website.
There is a module website providing links to external resources which elaborate on the
topics discussed
Reading List
To cover varying student backgrounds:
Choudhuri A R: Physics of Fluids and Plasmas (CUP 1998)
Drake R P: High-Energy-Density Physics: Fundamentals, Inertial Fusion, and Experimental
Astrophysics (Springer 2006)
Dyson J E, Williams D A: The Physics of the Interstellar Medium (PUP 1997) ***
Frank J, King A, Raine D: Accretion Power in Astrophysics (CUP 2002)
Kulsrud R M, Spergel D: Plasma Physics for Astrophysics (PUP 2005)
Longair M S: High Energy Astrophysics (CUP 2011) ***
Parks G: An Introduction Physics of Space Plasmas (Perseus 2003)
Shu F H: The Physics of Astrophysics: Gas Dynamics (University Science Books 1992)

Module Number PHY

Biophysics: Tools and Techniques

Stage 4
Term 2
Module Co-Ordinator
Other Lecturers
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Prof MC Leake
10
7(M)
Lectures:
18 x 1 hour
Physics Problem Classes:
3 x 1 hour
Private Study:
77.5 hours
Assessment:
1.5 hours
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
100%
Closed Examination
100%
Core Physics especially Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics;
Molecular Biophysics in AuT

Aims
Interdisciplinary physical/life sciences research is emerging as a prime area in academia and
industry. Key to recent advances has been development of pioneering experimental physical science
techniques and methods of theoretical analysis/modelling applied to addressing challenging
questions from the biosciences. This modern armoury of the physicist constitutes a toolbox which
can be used to tackle a multitude of bioscience questions. In this module we will review in detail
several important modern physical science tools and techniques that can be applied to addressing
real biological questions, with a thorough discussion of the underlying physics. Physical science
methods historically have been key to providing enormous breakthroughs in our understanding of
fundamental biology - stemming from the early development of optical microscopy in understanding
of the cellular nature of life, through to complex structural biology techniques to elucidate the shape
of vital biomolecules including essential proteins and DNA, the coding molecule of genes. More
recently, physical science developments have involved methods to study single cells in their native
context at the single- molecule level with key improvements in temporal and spatial resolution
permitting dynamic and mechanistic biological information to be investigated with unprecedented
precision, as well as providing ground-breaking developments in areas of artificial tissue
bioengineering and synthetic biology, and biosensing and disease diagnosis.
In this module we will in particular discuss tools and techniques that, broadly, permit the detection
and characterization of biological material using (i) visible light, (ii) non-visible electromagnetic
radiation, and (iii) methods used to manipulate and quantify biological forces, with particular
emphasis throughout placed on real applications of the physical science tools and techniques.
Examples of such tools which will be discussed include super-resolution optical microscopy,
advanced fluorescence imaging methods, optical and magnetic tweezers for single biological
molecule manipulation, ion channel measurements in living cells, Raman spectroscopy of biological
matter, surface probe microscopy techniques, nanophotonics for biosensing, digital holography of
swimming cells, modern electron microscopy tools, as well as non-linear spectroscopy approaches.
We will also discuss the core physics concepts of several fundamental biological processes which are
studied using these modern biophysics tools and techniques.

Module Number PHY

Biophysics: Tools and Techniques

Stage 4
Term 2
Learning outcomes:
This module will focus on a number of physical science tools and techniques that underpin
biophysical methods which can address a broad range of challenging biological questions. The aims
of this module are to assist students in gaining a critical understanding of:

the breadth of modern physical science tools and techniques used to investigate biology.

the core physics concepts behind these methods.

the key physical principles behind several important biological processes of living matter.

real industrial and biomedical applications of modern biophysical tools and techniques.

Reading List
Leake MC: Single-Molecule Cellular Biophysics. (CUP, 2013)
Nelson P: Biological Physics: Energy, Information, Life (W H Freeman, 2004)
Sneppen K and Zocchi G: Physics in Molecular Biology (CUP, 2005)
Physical Biology of the Cell by R. Phillips, J. Kondev and J. Theriot (Garland Science, 2009)

Module Number PHY00020M

Electron Microscopy
Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr V Lazarov
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
Closed exam:
Tutorial Classes:
Private Study (incl. Physics practice
questions):
TOTAL:
Closed Examination
Closed Examination
Core Physics or equivalent

18 hours
1.5 hours
4 x 1 hour
72.5 hours
100 hours
100%
100%

Aims
The properties of nanomaterials and microfabrications depend critically on the
structure- property relationships. Electron microscopy techniques, including diffraction,
atomic resolution imaging, and spectroscopy offer the most powerful tool for
investigating matter down to the scale of a single atom. The module introduces the
general concepts and physics background of electron microscopy, develops system
components and surveys selected applications in the physical sciences. It is intended
as a stand-alone course and as an introduction to the use of state of the art tools for
characterising the nanoworld. A number of applications from real world (including
graphene based devices) will be demonstrated in the York-Nanocentre that host
premium suite of electron microscope. Finally through tutorials the taught material will
be reinforced.
Syllabus
I Introduction
Parallel and serial imaging, basic introduction to Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM),
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy
(STEM)
Geometrical optics
Vacuum environment
Beam specimen interaction basics for signals, preservation and nanofabrication
Specimen charging
General specimen types
Electron optics
Introduction of basic attributes of electron beams from low (eV-KeV), through medium
(100s of KeV) to high voltages (MeV), where necessary with relativistic corrections.
Main types of electron sources
2015/16

Module Number PHY00020M

Electron Microscopy
Stage 4
Term 1
Electron gun principles thermionic and field emission, brightness
Cylindrical magnetic lens forms, properties, attributes, apertures and major aberrations
(spherical, chromatic, astigmatism)
Introduction to lower symmetry focusing systems and some of their attributes
Introduction to correction of aberrations
Electron detectors and analysers
Electron detectors
Electron energy analysers and filters
Microscopy Modes
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)
Electron scattering
Diffraction and basic image formation in transmission
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
High resolution TEM imaging (HRTEM/HREM) basics
Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM)
Major signals in TEM, STEM and SEM
Z-contrast STEM, atom column by atom column analysis
Signal types, characteristics, information content and application examples
Performance (resolution, intensity, sensitivity)
Performance measure definitions resolution, probe intensity, analysis sensitivity
Phase contrast and the Contrast Transfer Function (CTF)
Practical requirements
Selected Application Topics
Atomic resolution imaging TEM
Dislocation and other defect analysis
Atomic resolution imaging and analysis STEM
Electron Diffraction as major analytical tool and in support of imaging
Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX/EDS) elemental microanalysis
Basic corrections for data quantification
Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) and Energy Filtered TEM (EFTEM)
Lecture notes
The expectation is students will take lecture notes in the traditional form, supplemented
by handouts and electronic version of the slides with with some technical details,
especially diagrams and charts.
Reading List
Williams and Carter, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Springer, 2009
Edgerton, Electron energy Loss Spectroscopy in the Electron Microscope, Plenum, 1996
2015/16

Module Number PHY00020M

Electron Microscopy
Stage 4
Term 1
Goodhew, P.J. and Humphreys, F.J., Electron Microscopy and Analysis, 2nd Edition,
Taylor & Francis, 1988
Goldstein et al, Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-ray Microanalysis, Springer, 2003
The following web-links can be used as complementary/interactive resources:
http://www.matter.org.uk/tem/
http://www.matter.org.uk/diffraction/Default.htm

2015/16

Module Number PHY000011M

Fluid Dynamics
Stage 4
Term 2
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr B Dudson
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice 80.5 hours
Questions :
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
100%
Closed Examination
100%
Year 1 and 2 core Physics or equivalent

Aims
The module introduces the general concepts of fluid mechanics and applies them to
problems of applied physics interest, principally in aerodynamics. The fundamental
equations are formally derived from general conservation laws.
From these
simplifications such as incompressible flow are derived: the approach is theoretical
rather than engineering. The underlying concepts are emphasised, but mathematical
treatments are used as required. The module is designed to give an introduction to the
full range of hydrodynamics including viscous and turbulent flows, incompressible and
compressible fluids. Examples are chosen to illustrate both the application and
treatment of the methods. Not all the topics in the syllabus may be treated in any one
year.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:

Formulate the equations of fluid dynamics in viscid and inviscid flow, and in
compressible and incompressible forms.

Develop the theory of inviscid, incompressible flow around bodies in two

dimensions.

Describe the structure of a laminar boundary layer over a flat plate.

Use the method of characteristics to describe rarefaction.

Calculate the behaviour of shocks in normal and oblique flow.

Describe the flow around aerofoils.

Outline the concepts of turbulent flow.

Syllabus
Introduction: hydrodynamic approximation.
Conservation: equations of conservation, mass, momentum and energy. Equation of
continuity.

Module Number PHY000011M

Fluid Dynamics
Stage 4
Term 2
Inviscid flow: Eulers equation. Bernoullis equation. Pitot tube, venturi effect,
gravitational head.
Kelvins equation: irrotational flow: velocity potential: strong form of Bernoullis
equation. Incompressible flow: stream function. Laplaces equation: complex
potential. Flow around a cylinder: source/vortex flow: flow around an aerofoil: KuttaJoukowski lift formula:
Joukowskis condition: aerofoil lift. DAlemberts paradox: dissipation.
Viscous flow: viscosity: stress and strain rate tensors: linear isotropic form: first and
second viscosity coefficients. Navier-Stokes equation. Stokes hypothesis. Reynolds
number. Stokes flow: drag.
Boundary layers: Prandtls approach Von Karman integral method: flat plate: drag
coefficient.
Separation: flow near line of separation: pressure drag: drag coefficient: drag crisis:
turbulence.
Conservation of energy: viscous work: thermal conduction. Entropy generation.
Compressible flow: sound waves: characteristics. One dimensional time dependent
flow: Riemann invariants: centred rarefaction. Compression shock waves.
Rankine-Hugoniot relations: shock adiabat, strong and weak shocks. Entropy increase
in shock.
Oblique shocks. Flow around a wedge: attached and detached shocks.
Stagnation pressure. Sub-sonic and super-sonic aerofoils: swept-wings.
Velocity potential: perturbation flow. Compressible flow around wings. Sub-sonic
correction to incompressible super-sonic: wave drag.
Turbulence: Reynolds experiments: fully developed turbulence: Kolmogorovs
distribution. Turbulent (Reynolds) stress. Prandtls mixing length hypothesis.
Universal velocity distribution law: viscous sub-layer: pipe flow.
Lecture notes
Students are expected to be responsible for obtaining a reasonable set of notes from the
lectures. A set of notes will be available online for guidance.
Reading List
Landau L D and Lifshitz E M: Fluid mechanics (Pergamon)*
Pert, GJ: Introductory Fluid Mechanics for Physicists and Mathematicians (John Wiley and Sons)

Module Number PHY000026M

Further Quantum Mechanics

Stage 4
Term 2
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr I Wilson-Rae
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
Closed exam:
Problem Classes:
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice
questions:
TOTAL:
Closed Examination
Closed Examination
Core Physics or equivalent

18 hours
1.5 hours
3 x 1 hour
77.5 hours
100 hours
100%
100%

Aims
To study angular momentum and scattering theory in quantum mechanics, and provide a
basic introduction to quantum optics and the analysis of dissipation and noise in open
quantum systems.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:
Derive and apply the general theory of angular momentum.
Derive and apply the Born approximation and the method of partial waves in
potential scattering theory.
Derive the time-dependent formulation of general scattering theory and use it to
explain resonant scattering.
Understand the canonical quantization of the electromagnetic field and the origin of
spontaneous emission.
Describe minimum-uncertainty states of the electromagnetic field.
Understand the use of density matrices.
Derive and apply the quantum-optical master equation.
Describe, and apply to unseen problems, all the topics in the syllabus.
Comprehensive lecture notes should be taken down from the blackboard during
lectures. For specific topics supplementary notes will be provided and made available
through the VLE .
Syllabus
Angular momentum: Angular momentum as the generator of rotations Multiplets
and ladder operators Addition of angular momenta and Clebsch-Gordan coefficients.
[4 lectures]

2015/16

Module Number PHY000026M

Further Quantum Mechanics

Stage 4
Term 2
Scattering theory: Lippmann-Schwinger equation and scattering amplitudes The Born
approximation Partial waves and phase shifts General scattering theory and timedependent formulation: the S-matrix Transition rates and Fermi's golden rule
Resonances. [6]
Quantum theory of radiation: Canonical quantization of the electromagnetic field
Creation and annihilation operators Atom-field interaction in the Coulomb gauge and
spontaneous emission Coherent states and squeezed states. [4]
Quantum noise: Density matrices Quantum optical master equation Resonance
fluorescence. [4]
Reading List
Sakurai J J: Modern quantum mechanics (Addison Wesley, 1994)
Weinberg S: Lectures on quantum mechanics (Cambridge, 2013)
Loudon R: The quantum theory of light (Oxford, 2003)
Cohen-Tannoudji C, Dupont-Roc J and Grynberg G: Atom-photon interactions (Wiley, 1998)

2015/16

Module Number PHY000012M

High Performance Computing

Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr M I J Probert
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Practicals:
6 hours
Assignment:
20 hours
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice 56 hours
Questions:
TOTAL:
100 hours
Assignment
80%
Practical Challenges
20%
Assignment
80%
Knowledge of basic computer programming in either Fortran or C

Aims
The aim of this module is to show how the historical developments in high performance
computing have come about, how these impact on current technologies, how best to
utilise these technologies for numerically intensive calculations, and what future
developments are likely. The lectures will be supplemented by practical workshops
where some of the key principles will be put into practice.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:
describe the different types of HPC hardware and make informed decisions as to what
will be best in any particular situation
use simple profiling tools to identify hotspots in a code and develop strategies for
overcoming the hotspots
design efficient coding solutions to a variety of numerical problems
create a parallel program for an MP machine use message-passing techniques
Syllabus
Hardware
Introduction to hardware for a typical computer
Introduction to networks
Software
Benchmarking
Computer languages
Floating point numbers
Introduction to programming
Use of tools in programming
Use of software profiling

Module Number PHY000012M

High Performance Computing

Stage 4
Term 1
Coding
Optimising a serial program
Introduction to parallel programming - how to think parallel
Writing a parallel program using OpenMP
Introduction to GPU programming
Writing a parallel program using MPI
Example applications
Summary
Current state-of-the-art supercomputers
Future possibilities
Lecture notes
For each lecture, students will be provided with a complete set of handouts, comprising
copies of the PowerPoint slides in 6-up format. Students will be expected to annotate
these with additional comments arising from the lecture. Full colour copies of the notes
will also be available on-line after each lecture.
Reading List
High Performance Computing by K. Dowd & C. Severence (OReilly, 1998)**
Writing Scientific Software: A Guide to Good Style by S. Oliveira & D.E. Stewart
(Cambridge University Press, 2006)
Suggested preparation
It is recommended that all students prepare for this course by making sure they have a
basic working knowledge of numerical programming in either Fortran or C. As a simple
exercise, you should make sure that you can write a program that can calculate an
a
N:

Module Number PHY000021M

Magnetism and Magnetic Materials

Stage 4
Term 2
Module CoOrdinators:
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Prof K OGrady
Dr G Vallejo Fernandez
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice 80.5 hours
Questions):
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
85%
Course assignment
15%
Closed Examination
85%
Course assignment
15%
Analysing the Nanoscale and Magnetism

Aims
To develop an understanding of the basic properties of magnetic materials and to extend that
knowledge to the behaviour of magnetic materials on reduced length scale, i.e. nanomagnetism. To
understand domain processes and reversal processes for bulk materials, e.g. permanent magnets
and soft materials, 2-dimensional materials, e.g. thin films, and small entities, i.e. nanoparticles. To
understand the requirements for applications of such materials in information storage, permanent
magnets etc.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module students will be able to:

Describe in detail the forms of ordered magnetism and the various types of exchange
interaction.

Understand direct and indirect exchange interactions, superexchange, relation to ordering

temperatures, exchange bias.

Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of ferromagnetism and the role of factors such as the
demagnetising factor, anisotropy, domains, single domains, thermal activation etc.

Explain the underlying physics of magnetics technology and information storage in particular.

Be aware of the structure if disks and heads, fabrication, GMR and TMR.

Understand reversal process in relation to structure and applications of permanent magnets.

Syllabus
1. Direct exchange.
2. RKKY interaction, Slather Pauling curve, Curie point.
3. Antiferromagnetism, superexchange, ferrimagnetism.
4. Anisotropy: crystalline, shape, other.
5. Exchange bias.
2015/16

Module Number PHY000021M

Magnetism and Magnetic Materials

Stage 4
Term 2
6. Review of magnetisation reversal.
7. Domain wall structure, width pinning.
8. Single domains, Stoner-Wohlfarth theory.
9. Theory of GMR+TMR.
10. Energy barrier distribution and switching field distribution: factors controlling it.
11. Energy barrier and switching field distributions: origins.
12. Hysteresis, reversible, irreversible, time dependence.
13. Thin film preparation and properties.
14. Magnetic recording.
15. GMR + TMR.
16. Head structures.
17. Disk structures.
18. Permanent magnets.
Reading list
Jiles D: Introduction to Magnetism and Magnetic Materials 2nd Ed (Chapman & Hall)
Cullity B D and C Graham. An Introduction to Magnetic Materials. IEEE Press.

2015/16

Module Number PHY00022M

Molecular Biophysics
Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Prof R J Greenall
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Problem Classes:
3 x 1 hour
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice 77.5 hours
questions)
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
100%
Closed Examination
100%
Core Physics especially Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics

Aims
Physics has become very important in biological research over the last few decades. As many
biologists and biochemists have focussed on biological systems at the molecular level, they
have increasingly needed to use the concepts, models, analytical tools and experimental
techniques of the physical sciences. This applies also to the emerging topics of bionanotechnology and soft materials. For example, many processes in biological cells are
studied via thermodynamics and statistical mechanics and the operation of muscle has been
studied using optical tweezers. In this module we will review some of these ideas from
physics before applying them to specific biological systems. We will meet a mix of
experimental and theoretical approaches. The syllabus given below should be regarded as
indicative of the material to be covered: specific topics addressed will change from year to
year.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:

Use physical laws to produce models of biological systems.

Perform quantitative analyses of these models.

Critically analyse the validity of the assumptions made in these models and assess their
impact on the validity of the results.

Explain the physical basis of experimental techniques used to study the systems
introduced and discuss the key results.

Discuss the key features and biological significance of the systems introduced.
Syllabus
Introduction to the roles and structures of significant biological macromolecules and
assemblies. The gross internal and external anatomy of cells. Proteins, nucleic acids and
membranes. Molecular devices: the plasma membrane; enzymes and regulatory proteins;

2015/16

Module Number PHY00022M

Molecular Biophysics
Stage 4
Term 1
cellular information flow.
structure and dynamics.

Experimental and theoretical approaches to macromolecular

Physical models underpinning biological phenomena. Brownian motion, random walks,

friction and diffusion. Reynolds number and impact on motility. Revision of temperature,
entropy and free energy. Open systems, entropic forces as derivatives of the free energy,
free energy transduction. Osmotic pressure and forces. Chemical potential.
Self assembly of amphiphiles and bilayers. Formation of emulsions. Critical concentration.
Experimental and theoretical approaches to cooperative transitions in macromolecules.
Polymer elasticity. Single molecule studies using optical tweezers and other techniques.
Helix-coil transition via polarised light scattering. Allostery in proteins. Theoretical models
for these phenomena.
Enzymes and molecular machines. Survey of molecular machines in cells; one-shot and cyclic
machines. Mechanical machines: energy landscape. Smoluchowski equation and rates of
microscopic machines. Random walks on the energy landscape. Kinetics: Michaelis-Menten
rule; tightly coupled perfect ratchet model. Kinesin and muscle as examples.
Machines in membranes. Electro-osmosis, Nernst potential and Donnan equilibrium. Ion
pumps. Chemiosmotic mechanism in mitochondria. Bacterial flagellae and motility. The F1ATPase complex.
Nerve impulses. The action potential. Cell membrane as an electrical network. Travelling
wave solutions in Ohmic conductance membranes. Mechanism of the action potential;
voltage gating and travelling waves. Hodkin-Huxley model. Patch clamp techniques for
studying single ion channels.
Lecture notes
Students should attend all lectures and problem classes so that notes can be made from the
core material presented. Worked examples and handouts (particularly of complex diagrams)
will be distributed in lectures where appropriate. Supplementary reading from specific
sections of the course text books will be suggested in lectures. Students should attempt
weekly problems and study the published model answers. A complete set of notes may be
formed from a synthesis of all this material.
Reading List
Nelson P: Biological Physics: Energy, Information, Life (W H Freeman, 2004)***
Sneppen K and Zocchi G: Physics in Molecular Biology (CUP, 2005) **
Physical Biology of the Cell by R. Phillips, J. Kondev and J. Theriot (Garland Science, 2009). ***

2015/16

Module Number PHY00025M

MPhys Project and Research Skills

Stage 4
Term 1-3
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment

Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr G Vallejo Fernandez
60
7 (M)
Practicals:
Private Study:
Project review:
Project seminar:
Project conference:
Dissertation:
Viva Voce prep:
TOTAL:
Project review
Project seminar
Project conference Talk
- Poster
Dissertation
Project conduct and lab book
Viva voce examination
Resubmission of dissertation
Viva resit
Core of Physics or equivalent

400 hours
54 hours
20 hours
2 hours
14 hours
100hours
10 hours
100 hours
5%
5%
5%
5%
35%
25%
20%
40%
20%

Aims
This module aims to develop those communication skills relevant to a research environment
and a research career: undertaking a literature survey, writing a review essay, developing a
project plan, giving oral and poster presentations in an end-of-year conference.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:

undertake a literature survey

write a review essay
develop a project plan
deliver a conference-style oral presentation using PowerPoint
construct and defend a poster presentation

Syllabus
Project Review Term 1
Project Seminar Term 2
Project Conference Term 3

2015/16

Module Number PHY00025M

MPhys Project and Research Skills

Stage 4
Term 1-3
Further details may be found in the MPhys Project and Research Skills Guide.
Reading List
Reading recommendations will be advised by the project supervisor as appropriate

2015/16

Module Number PHY00023M

Nanophysics
Stage 4
Term 2
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Prof J Yuan
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Problem Classes:
4 x 1 hour
Private Study (incl Physics Practice 76.5 hours
Questions:
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
85%
Continuous assignment
15%
Closed Examination
85%
Resit assignment
15%
Core of Physics especially QMII, Electrons in Solids or equivalent

Aims
To introduce the fundamental physics important at nanoscale such as tunnelling, surface
proximity effect, quantum size effect, and Coulomb blockade; as well as important
nanomaterials and nanosystems of current interests such as atomic clusters, quantum dots,
nanowires, quantum wells as well as single electron devices.
To give an overview of the nanotechnology of fabrication and characterisation.
To give a flavour of the state-of-art developments as well as the challenges in fundamental
science and applications of nanophysics, a rapidly developing area of science in the new
century.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:
Discuss the importance of length and energy scales governing the transitions from
bulk to nanoscale physics
Calculate the De Broglie wavelength important for size quantization effect and the
corresponding device operation temperature.
Calculate the tunnelling rate as a function of barrier thickness
Explain the concept of coherence length in quantum conductance and interference
Discuss the concept of surface-to-volume ratio
Describe the statistical fluctuation in finite particle systems and their physical
consequence.
Describe the general approaches in nanofabrication and specific examples of
construction for quantum corral, quantum dots and nanowires

2015/16

Module Number PHY00023M

Nanophysics
Stage 4
Term 2
Explain the basic physics behind the characterization techniques of electron
microscopy, scanning probe microscopy
Discuss the features of carbon nanostructures and their physical origin and Eulers
geometric description
Discuss the knowledge of the common non-crystallographic structures in atomic
clusters and the magic atomic number effect and its geometrical origin
Describe what is meant by low dimensional systems; give examples of quantum
wires, dots and wells.
Derive expressions for the energy levels and density-of-states of quantum dots and
quantum wires and quantum wells.
Use the density-of-states result for quantum dots to understand the electronic
magic number effect in metallic atomic clusters.
Outline what is meant by exciton and be able to calculate the condition for the
localization of excitons in quantum-size confined structure
Qualitatively describe the difference in electron conduction in bulk materials and
mesoscopic structure.
Calculate the tunnelling rate across a potential barrier and explain the physics
principle of scanning tunnelling microscope
Outline what is meant by quantum conductance
Outline what is meant by Coulomb blockade and be able to estimate the
temperature and size range within which this is important.
Describe the operations of single electron devices
Give the condition for plasmon excitation and derive its resonance energy in a free
electron metal and hence explain why simple metals are transparent in ultraviolet
region.
Derive the dipole plasmon energy of a metallic sphere
Describe the Mie theory and understand its physical significance in terms of multiple
plasmon excitation
Describe the coupling of the dipole plasmon in nanospheres arrays and to
distinguish transverse and longitudinal modes
Describe the concept of surface plasmon polarions and condition for coupling
plasmon excitation with light
Describe the concept of nanoplasmonics and its application in optical processing in
subwavelength structures.
Syllabus
I. Overview and review (2)
Scale and scaling laws in nanoscale
- Characteristic lengths: de Broglie wavelength, Coherence
- Characteristic energy: thermal, electrostatic, quantum
- Finite particle systems, surface-to-volume ratio
- Scaling in Physics
2015/16

Module Number PHY00023M

Nanophysics
Stage 4
Term 2
Fabrication and Structural Characterization
- Top-down: lithography, Microelectronics
- Bottom-up: Directed and Self-organized structures
- Diffraction and Microscopy
II. Structure and Stability of Nanosystems (3)
Review of bonding and stability of bulk materials
- Metallic, inert gas, covalent, ionic
Structure of fullerene and carbon nanotubes
Structure of atomic clusters
- Non-crystalline structure, magic number effect
III. Electrons in quantum confinement (4)
Review of electrons in solids
- Free Fermi gas,
- Nearly-free electrons and excitons in periodic potential
Electronic shell model for metallic clusters
- Electronic magic number effect
Quantum dots and quantum wells
- Density of states of low dimensional systems
- Excitons in confinement
IV. Nanoelectronics (4)
Review of semiclassical conduction
Mesoscopic (quantum) effects
- Tunnelling,
- Quantum conductance
- Coulomb blockade and single electron devices
V. Nanoplasmonics (4)
Review of plasmons in solids
Surface plasmons of isolated nanoparticles, Mie theory
Coupled nanoparticle systems
Surface plasmon polarions and nanoplasmonics
VI. Review and Prospective (1)
Reading List
C. Kittel: Introduction to Solid State Physics (8th edition, Wiley and Sons)
N.W. Ashcroft and N.D. Mermin: Solid State Physics (Saunders College Publishing)

2015/16

Module Number PHY000010M

Nuclear Astrophysics
Stage 4
Term 2
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr A M Laird
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Problem Classes:
3 x 1 hour
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice 77.5 hours
Questions:
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
80%
Course assignment
20%
Closed Examination
80%
Resit assignment
20%
Core of Physics and nuclear Physics I or equivalent

Aims
In this module we will consider the synthesis of nuclei in astrophysical environments with
the aim of developing an understanding of how the elements which we and our
surroundings are made of were created. We will discuss nucleosynthesis in various
astrophysical environments, ranging from steady state solar interiors to the more
energetic conditions found in novae, supernovae and X-ray bursts.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:

Describe how the abundance pattern of the elements we see around us

reflects nucleosynthesis in different astrophysical environments
Describe these astrophysical sites and the specific reaction processes which
occur in each site
Demonstrate an understanding of the underlying nuclear physics, via
calculation or discussion, as appropriate
Describe and compare the experimental techniques used to measure reactions
rates
Discuss the limits of our understanding and areas of current research activity

Lecture notes
Students will be expected to make their own notes from material presented during
lectures and from relevant chapters of the recommended textbooks. Additional
handout material will be given where appropriate.
2015/16

Module Number PHY000010M

Nuclear Astrophysics
Stage 4
Term 2

Syllabus
Introduction element abundances and classes of nucleosynthesis
Nuclear properties and nuclear reactions
Experimental techniques for measuring the relevant reaction rates
Stellar nucleosynthesis stellar structures and evolution; hydrogen burning; helium
burning; heavy element burning
Explosive nucleosynthesis novae and X-ray bursts; supernovae; , and -processes
Origin of the light elements (Li, Be, B) through cosmic spallation
Nucleochronology
Pulling it all together - understanding element abundances
A few open questions (including current research at York)
Reading List
C. Iliadis: Nuclear Physics of Stars (Wiley VCH) ***
C.E. Rolfs and W.S. Rodney: Cauldrons in the Cosmos (University of Chicago) **
B.E.J. Pagel: Nucleosynthesis and Chemical Evolution (Cambridge University Press) **
D. Arnett: Supernovae and Nucleosynthesis (Princeton University) *
D.D. Clayton: Principles of Stellar Evolution and Nucleosynthesis (University of Chicago)*

2015/16

Module Number PHY00024M

Nuclear Physics II
Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr David Jenkins
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
Closed exam:
Problem Classes:
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice
Questions:
TOTAL:
Closed Examination
Closed Examination
Core of Physics or Equivalent

18 hours
1.5 hours
3 x 1 hour
77.5 hours
100 hours
100%
100%

Aims
In this module we will consider some of the key advanced topics in nuclear physics, and
begin to examine how these topics are addressed in contemporary nuclear physics
research. We will examine the key models that underpin nuclear structure associated with
both single-particle and collective modes of excitation. The module then aims to
develop understanding of the quantum mechanical mechanisms underlying nuclear decays
and, hence, to examine what nuclear structure information can be extracted from such
measurements. In all of the above, published data will be used regularly to illustrate and
test the ideas presented.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:

Describe the significance of nuclear charge and current distributions in regard to

nuclear structure and decays
Discuss the variety of mechanisms that result in the generation of excited states in
nuclei.
Predict angular momentum and parity quantum numbers of excited states in nuclei,
based on nucleonic single-particle configurations.
Interpret aspects of published level schemes in terms of both single-particle and
collective models, demonstrating how information on the different types of excitation
are extracted from the data.
Discuss the quantum-mechanical basis for the three modes of nuclear decay.
Describe the key models and methods used to predict nuclear decay rates.
Perform sample calculations of alpha, beta and gamma-decay rates, based on the
models presented

2015/16

Module Number PHY00024M

Nuclear Physics II
Stage 4
Term 1

Interpret nuclear decay data, through an understanding of these models, in terms of

nuclear structure phenomena.

Lecture notes
For this module, a handbook (set of lecture notes) will be provided at the start of the
module, and covers the whole module. Some of the material (derivations, equations and
key diagrams) are omitted from the notes, so the students can complete them in the
lectures. Completion of this activity will yield a complete set of lecture notes, but students
should supplement this with their own notes based on the discussions in the lectures (which
will be wide-ranging) and the relevant sections of the recommended text.
Syllabus
Nuclear moments:
multipole expansion of the nuclear charge and current density
nuclear magnetic dipole moment and nuclear electric quadrupole moment
prediction of nuclear moments from shell model
Nuclear models:
review of the extreme single particle model,
extension to allow particle hole configurations,
many-particle configurations
shell-model multiplets and band termination
properties of even-odd nuclei, properties of even-even nuclei,
collective properties of nuclei,
rotational and vibration excitations in nuclei,
rotational model even-even and odd-even nuclei
vibrational model one-, two- and three-phonon excitations
single particle states in a deformed potential.
High spin effects in nuclei rotational alignments, backbending, and band-termination
Alpha decay:
review of alpha particle decay and systematics,
theory of barrier penetration,
role of angular momentum and deformation
alpha-decay selection rules and fine structure.
Gamma-ray decay:
excited states in nuclei,
classical electromagnetic radiation and relevance to nuclei
gamma-ray decay,
decay rates and the Weisskopf estimates,
2015/16

Module Number PHY00024M

Nuclear Physics II
Stage 4
Term 1
selection rules,
spectroscopic information from gamma-ray decays,
internal conversion isomers.
Beta decay:
review of beta particle decay,
Fermi theory and spectral shape
decay rates for allowed transitions,
selection rules
classification of beta decay, allowed and forbidden transitions,
electron capture,
mass of the neutrino, (double beta decay, parity non-conservation).
Reading List
Krane K S: Introductory nuclear physics (Wiley) ****

2015/16

Module Number PHY00018M

Physics and Applications of Semiconductor Devices

Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr R Kroger
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Problem Classes:
3 x 1 hour
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice 77.5 hours
questions:)
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
100%
Closed Examination
100%
Core Physics and Electrons in Solids or equivalent

Aims
Based on the models developed in Quantum Mechanics, Statistical Mechanics as well as
in Solid State Physics (Introduction to Solid State Physics and Electrons in Solids), this
course discusses the links between our fundamental understanding of electronic states
in materials and the application of this understanding in micro- and optoelectronics as
well as detector-physics. It will cover and revisit vital concepts such as crystal
symmetries and defects, band structures, phonon dispersion, the interaction of charge
carriers with external fields and the effect on the electronic and optical properties.
Experimental techniques to synthesize semiconductors and to study their physical
properties will be discussed for some of the most prominent semiconductor materials
such as Si, GaAs, GaN and Ge.
A large part of this course will focus on the application of these concepts and techniques
for well-established and novel devices such as transistors, metal oxide semiconductor
field effect transistors (MOSFETs), light emitting diodes/laser diodes and particle
detectors.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:
This module covers the fundamental concepts relevant for the understanding of the
physical properties of semiconducting materials, their fabrication, their characterisation,
and their assembly into technological devices. The skills obtained throughout this course
are of great importance in society and economy, which are both increasingly driven by
the application of electronics in all walks of life.
At the end of this course the students will be able to
describe the relevance of the crystal structure and atomic bonds for the fundamental
electronic properties
2015/16

Module Number PHY00018M

Physics and Applications of Semiconductor Devices

Stage 4
Term 1
explain the main techniques for the structural characterisation of semiconductors
(electron microscopy, spectroscopic techniques, X-ray diffraction)
apply the band structure model and effective mass concept to determine band gap
width and mobility of charge carriers
identify the important transport and scattering processes at work in semiconductors
(drift, diffusion, generation, recombination, thermionic emission, tunnelling and
ionisation)
calculate the temperature dependence of the ionisation of dopant states and charge
carrier concentrations
distinguish the relevant electron-hole recombination processes and the role of
majority and minority charge carrier for these processes
quantitatively describe the experimental determination of the charge carrier
concentrations and transport properties of semiconductors (e.g. Hall resistance and
Haynes-Shockley experiment)
describe the impact of defects on these properties
explain the main techniques for the fabrication of semiconducting materials and their
limitations
understand the physics of p-n junctions (charge densities, potential distribution, charge
carrier transport processes) and their relevance for their application in electronic
devices
correlate the theoretical description of p-n junctions with experimental techniques to
determine their physical properties
distinguish the main building blocks for the semiconductor based devices discussed in
this course
describe the underlying principles of microelectronic, optoelectronic and detector
devices.
These skills are greatly important for students who plan to work either theoretically or
experimentally on microelectronics based techniques in the future.
Syllabus
Physics of Semiconductors (5 lectures)
o Lattice properties (elastic properties, phonon dispersion)
o Electronic band structure and densities of states in semiconductors
o Fundamental transport properties of semiconductors (electrical, magnetic and
thermal conductivity)
o Interaction of semiconductors with radiation
o Structural defects (point, line, planar and volume defects) and their impact on the
transport properties
Synthesis techniques (2 lectures)
o Liquid-phase based methods (e.g. Czochralski process, Zone melting method)
o Gas-Phase based methods (e.g. chemical and physical vapour deposition,
molecular beam epitaxy)
2015/16

Module Number PHY00018M

Physics and Applications of Semiconductor Devices

Stage 4
Term 1

Characterization of semiconductors (5 lectures)

o Electronic properties: Four probe measurements, I-V characterisation
o Structural and chemical characterisation: X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy,
electron microscopy
o Surface Analysis: atomic force and scanning tunnelling microscopy
o Strain analysis: Raman-spectroscopy
Applications (6 lectures)
o Microelectronic devices (transistors)
o Optical devices (diodes, lasers)
o Detectors (CCDs, X-ray detectors)

Reading List
Simon. M. Sze: "Semiconductor Devices: Physics and Technology", Wiley

2015/16

Module Number PHY00001M

Plasma Physics for Fusion

Stage 4
Term 1
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Prof Howard Wilson

10
7 (M)
Lectures:
18 hours
Closed exam:
1.5 hours
Problem Classes:
3 x 1 hour
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice 77.5 hours
questions:
TOTAL:
100 hours
Closed Examination
85%
Continuous assignment
15%
Closed Examination
85%
Resit assignment
15%
Electromagnetism and Optics; Maths I-III; Core of Physics or
equivalent

Aims
Fusion, whether by inertial confinement or magnetic confinement, requires deuterium
and tritium to be heated to such high temperatures that the electrons are stripped from
the ions. The resulting conducting gas is called a plasma. Plasmas are common place
around the universe so the topic of plasma physics is important in many branches of
science including astrophysics and solar physics, as well as having industrial applications.
This course aims to introduce the basic plasma physics principles through a combination
of physical pictures and mathematical analyses, often using examples from fusion to
provide specific applications.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:
Describe, both through physical pictures and mathematics, the orbits of individual
particles in magnetic and electric fields: the cyclotron frequency, the guiding centre,
the ExB drift, the gradB and curvature drifts and the polarisation drift
Write down expressions for the quantities that are conserved when a charged particle
moves in a magnetic field: energy and magnetic moment. Use this principle to show
how charged particles can be trapped in a magnetic mirror. Understand the
limitations of a magnetic mirror for confining plasma for fusion
Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of magnetic confinement in a
toroidal magnetic field configuration, including the roles of both the poloidal and
toroidal magnetic fields. Describe the basic principles of tokamak operation.
Describe the process of inertial confinement fusion.
Describe the physics of Debye shielding and be able to derive the Debye length
mathematically. Write down the definitions of a plasma.
2015/16

Module Number PHY00001M

Plasma Physics for Fusion

Stage 4
Term 1
Demonstrate an understanding of the distribution function and how to derive plasma
density and flow by integrating over velocity space.
Without rigorous mathematical derivation, describe how plasma fluid equations can
be obtained from the kinetic equations for plasma evolution. Given the fluid
equations, describe the physics of the individual terms. Derive the ideal MHD
equations from the 2-fluid equations. Describe, without proof, the concept of frozen
in magnetic field.
Given the fluid equations, derive the diamagnetic drift. Provide a physical explanation
for the origin of the diamagnetic drift, including why it is not experienced by a single
particle.
Demonstrate an understanding of equilibria for cylindrical and toroidal plasma
systems. Derive the equilibrium relations for cylindrical systems. Describe
qualitatively the features of toroidal equilibria including the origin of the GradShafranov equation (without rigorous proof); the concept of toroidal flux surfaces,
and definitions of equilibrium quantities such as aspect ratio, safety factor, major and
minor radius, etc.
Perturb and linearise the equilibrium equations. As examples, be able to derive
expressions for the frequency of basic plasma waves: Langmuir wave, ion sound
wave. Describe the physics responsible for the wave.
Lecture notes
Students are expected to take their own notes during lectures. A set of skeleton
notes will be made available online at the end of the course.
Syllabus
Charged particle orbits and drifts
Magnetic mirror and toroidal magnetic confinement
Inertial confinement
Debye shielding and formal definition of a plasma
Distribution functions and velocity space integration
Kinetic equation and fluid equations, diamagnetic drift
Ideal magneto-hydrodynamics (MHD), plasma equilibrium
Plasma waves: Langmuir wave, sound wave
Reading List
Chen F F: Introduction to plasma physics and controlled fusion (Plenum) ***
Wesson: Tokamaks, Oxford Science Publications ***
Atzeni and Meyer-ter-Vehn: The physics of inertial fusion (Oxford Science) **
Boyd T J M & Sanderson J J: The physics of plasma (CUP) **
Cairns R A: Plasma physics (Blackie) **
Dendy R O: Plasma dynamics (OUP) **
Goldston & Rutherford: Introduction to plasma physics (IoP) **

2015/16

Module Number PHY000013M

Radiation and Matter

Stage 4
Term 2
Module Co-Ordinator
Credit Value
Credit Level
Workload

Assessment
Reassessment task
Pre-Requisites

Dr E Wagenaars
10
7 (M)
Lectures:
Closed exam:
Private Study (incl. Physics Practice
questions:)
TOTAL:
Closed Examination
Closed Examination
Core of Physics or Equivalent

18 hours
1.5 hours
80.5 hours
100 hours
100%
100%

Aims
An introduction of the basic features of lasers is first given leading to a more general
discussion on the interaction of light with atoms. The properties of laser cavities are
investigated, leading to a description of the stable operating range for cavities and the
associated mode structures. The quantum mechanics of the atom-radiation interaction
are considered in the semi-classical limit (treating the radiation field classically) to
determine transition probabilities. Some of the spectroscopic background for the
description of plasma emission processes important in astrophysical and laboratory
plasmas is presented.
Learning outcomes: at the end of this module successful students will be able to:

Describe and apply matrix methods to establish stability requirements for laser
cavities.
Describe beam propagation in a laser cavity in terms of solutions of Maxwells
equations. .
Derive Plancks radiation law from a consideration of radiation modes in a cavity.
Determine the relationship between Einsteins A and B coefficients.
Determine a general formula for laser gain in a generalised four-level laser.
By applying perturbation theory to the problem of light interacting with an atom in
the semi-classical limit, determine in a general way the selection rules for radiative
transitions.
Determine line shape formula for radiative and Doppler line broadening.
Describe how collisional-radiative processes control light emission from plasmas.

2015/16

Module Number PHY000013M

Radiation and Matter

Stage 4
Term 2
Lecture notes
Full notes should be taken based on material presented in the lectures.

Syllabus
Simple laser cavity parameters gain, threshold gain, longitudinal modes (2).
Matrix methods for paraxial optics. Stability criterion for laser cavities (2).
Directionality and spreading of an electromagnetic beam. Beam propagation. The
cylindrically symmetric solution. Transverse modes (2).
Gaussian beams in a cavity. The ABCD rule. Cavity mode frequencies (2).
Density of modes in a three-dimensional cavity. Quantisation of the field energy.
Plancks law (2).
The Einstein A and B coefficients. Lines shapes and laser gain. Rate equations for a four
level laser (2)
The effect of electromagnetic radiation on an atom or molecule. The interaction
Hamiltonian in the semi-classical limit (2).
Transition probabilities and selection rules (1).
The macroscopic theory of absorption. Radiative broadening. Doppler broadening (1).
Collisional radiative processes in plasmas. The Saha equation. Coronal equilibrium (2).
Reading List
Loudon R: The quantum theory of light (Oxford Science) **
Verdeyen J T: Laser electronics (Prentice Hall)**

2015/16