Physics 284, Modern Physics (Section 1)
UMass-Amherst Physics Department
Spring, 2004
Section 1:
Prof. A. Dinsmore
(E-mail and research website links)
LGRT 103, 12:20-1:10, MWF

Final grades have been submitted to SPIRE

Course Policies Syllabus Schedule.
#1-42.
Lecture Notes Homework Quizzes & Exams Protected page Grades
Web resources


Albert Einstein, Time
Magazine's Person of the Century 48 Fe atoms in a ring form a
corral for surface electrons (IBM) Two defects on copper scatter
surface electrons (IBM). The first laser in
1960
Hold mouse on image for description; click on image for more details.

Physics 284 presents an overview of modern physics, including special relativity, wave mechanics and quantum mechanics. We begin with special relativity, including mass-energy equivalence, time dilation, and length contraction. We then move to an overview of wave mechanics and an introduction to quantum mechanics. In the latter half of the course, we analyze the hydrogen atom, the electron in a box and other fundamental problems. We also consider important topics in atomic physics, solid state physics and chemistry.

Course requirements and policies (for both sections)

The policies are described here, along with the requirements. Briefly, the final exam counts 30%, two in-class midterm exams count 20% each, homeworks count 20%, and in-class quizzes count 10%. There are no discussion sections, except for optional review sessions before each exam.

Where to go for help

Office hours in Hasbrouck 404: There is also a physics help room in Hasbrouck 205.

A. Dinsmore, March 2004