The course aims to provide an introduction to the fundamental aspects of twentieth-century physics: special relativity, quantum mechanics, elementary particle physics, general relativity and cosmology.
Syllabus
Special relativity: from the invariance of the speed of light under change of reference frame to the Lorentz transformations; Minkowski spacetime, four-vectors and the transformation rules of the electromagnetic field. Quantum mechanics: the crisis of classical mechanics, wave-particle duality, the Schroedinger equation; probabilistic interpretation and its consequences; simple applications of the Schroedinger equation. Elementary particle physics: the Standard Model of elementary particle physics and its simple applications. General relativity and cosmology: the Hilbert-Einstein equation and its solutions in homogeneous isotropic spacetime; implications of elementary particle physics and general relativity for cosmology.
Expected learning
outcomes
At the end of the course students must demonstrate:
that they know and understand the phenomenological and experimental foundations of the theory of relativity and of quantum mechanics; they must be able to reproduce the main results studied quantitatively;
that they are able to apply this knowledge to the general formulation of a problem in relativistic/quantum physics;
that they are able to communicate ideas and solutions clearly, rigorously and effectively to both specialist and non-specialist audiences;
that they are able to identify the most appropriate methods to analyse and solve a problem related to the course topics and to interpret the results correctly.
Learning outcomes
to be assessed
Assessment will cover the knowledge and skills acquired on the course topics, taking into account both procedural skills (ability to set up and solve problems) and argumentative skills (ability to represent phenomena in terms of the theory).
Cookies are used to ensure the website works properly. By continuing to browse without changing your browser settings, you agree to receive all cookies. AcceptMore information
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
