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PH3806-Atomic & Molecular Physics 2

Module Provider: Physics
Number of credits: 10 [5ECTS credits]
Level: H (Honours)
Terms in which taught: Spring and Summer
Module Convenor: Professor AC Wright
Pre-requisites: PH3703
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2008/9

Email: a.c.wright@reading.ac.uk

Aims:
To provide students with an understanding of molecules observed from the microwave to the x-ray region in terms of solutions to the various energy eigenvalue equations involved and the appropriate selection rules.

Assessable learning outcomes:
After the unit, the student should be able to:

  • Sketch the vibrational and rotational spectra of a diatomic molecule and explain it in terms of the appropriate energy level diagram and selection rules.
  • Derive a value of the internuclear separation.
  • Derive a value for an isotopic shift in the rotational and vibrational spectrum.
  • Explain the absorption spectrum of a diatomic molecule such as I2 in the visible region in terms of the Franck-Condon principle.
  • Explain, in general terms, the basis of selection rules in atomic and molecular spectra.
  • Discuss the Central Field Approximation and its relevance to atomic spectroscopy.
  • Explain the difference between the normal and anomalous Zeeman effect and calculate the splitting observed in specific situations.
  • Explain the difference between L-S and j-j coupling and the underlying physics behind the Landé interval rule and Hund's rule.
  • Draw an appropriately labelled energy level diagram for helium and explain its appearance in terms of the Central Field Approximation and the indistinguishability of electrons.
  • Explain the Lamb shift experiment in hydrogen.
  • Explain the existence of hyperfine structure in hydrogen and sodium.
  • Explain the Rabi atomic beam experiment and determine the gI-value for a nucleus such as fluorine.

    Additional outcomes:

    Outline content:
    The module covers the physical properties of simple molecules and introduces topics relating to electron-electron and electron-nucleus interactions in atoms.

    Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
    Typically two 50 minute lectures will be given each week, followed by a workshop session in which selected problems are discussed as well as providing an open forum for discussion of relevant topics.
    Private study weeks will be organised, permitting students to review and consolidate their knowledge, to study new topics and to address continuous assessment work. A web page is provided containing a timetable for the module, lecture notes, workshop notes, assessment questions and feedback, and links to external pages providing additional information.

    Contact hours:

      Autumn Spring Summer
    Lectures 16 8
    Tutorials/seminars   8  4 
    Practicals      
    Other contact (eg study visits)      
    Total hours   24  12 
    Number of essays or assignments   2   
    Other (eg major seminar paper)      

    Assessment:
    Coursework:
    Assessed problems completed in private study, set at regular intervals
    Relative percentage of coursework : 20%
    Examinations:
    One 1˝ hour examination in May/June, 80%
    Requirements for a pass:
    40%
    Reassessment arrangements:
    One 1˝ hour examination in August/September, 100%

    Last updated: 28 July 2008

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