Atomic and Molecular Physics (PHAS0023)

Key information

Faculty: Faculty of Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Teaching department: Physics and Astronomy
Credit value: 15

Restrictions: Students must have completed PHAS0021 Electricity and Magnetism, PHAS0022 Quantum Physics (or equivalent modules that include the quantum mechanical treatment of the hydrogen atom. Studying atomic and molecular physics at this level requires some specific mathematical tools. Physics and Astronomy students will cover this material in PHAS0002 Mathematical Methods I, PHAS0009 Mathematical Methods II and PHAS0025 Mathematical Methods III. Students from other departments who do not take PHAS0025 are strongly recommended to learn this material via an equivalent course or by self-study.
Timetable

Alternative credit options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

Outline:

This module aims to introduce students to the quantum physics of atoms and molecules and their interactions with electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields. It builds on electromagnetism and quantum physics, to enable the student to understand the structure and spectra of simple atoms and molecules, and to develop such understanding to a point where physical problems can be tackled.

Aims:

To provide an introduction to the structure and spectra of atoms and molecules and their interactions with electric and magnetic fields
To revise and go beyond the physics of the one-electron hydrogen atom introduced in PHAS0022 Quantum Physics
To introduce 听the basic concepts of molecular bonds and their description using many-electron theory
To introduce the basic concepts of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and molecular spectra
To prepare students for more advanced modules in atomic and molecular spectroscopy such as PHAS0099 Molecular Physics, and PHAS0105 Atom and Photon Physics

Intended Learning Outcomes:

Understanding of the basic concepts of electronic structure of one-electron and many-electron atoms
Understanding of the basic concepts of atomic spectroscopy and effects of magnetic and electric fields on atomic spectra
Understanding of the basic concepts of chemical bond formation in simple single-electron and many-electron molecules
Understanding of the main principles of rotational, vibrational and electronic spectra of simple molecules

Teaching and Learning Methodology:

This module is delivered via weekly lectures supplemented by a series of problem solving tutorials and additional discussion.

In addition to timetabled lecture and PST hours, it is expected that students engage in self-study in order to master the material. This can take the form, for example, of practicing example questions and further reading in textbooks and online.

Indicative Topics:

One-electron atoms
Many-electron atoms
Atomic Spectra
Atoms in electric and magnetic fields
Diatomic Molecules
Molecular spectra

Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year

Intended teaching term: Term 2 听听听 Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 5)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study: In person
Methods of assessment: 80% Exam

10% In-class activity

10% Coursework
Mark scheme: Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year: 244
Module leader: Professor Alexander Shluger
Who to contact for more information: d.cassidy@ucl.ac.uk

Last updated

This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.

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