E-mail: ugrad@physics.ucsb.edu
Website: www.physics.ucsb.edu (will
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Department Chair: S. James Allen
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Index: |
Guenter Ahlers, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (statistical mechanicsexperimental)
S. James Allen, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Professor (condensed matter physicsexperimental)
Robert Antonucci, Ph.D., UC Santa Cruz, Professor (observational astrophysicsexperimental)
David D. Awschalom, Ph.D., Cornell University, Professor (condensed matter physicsexperimental)
Leon Balents, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Associate Professor (theoretical condensed matter)
Lars Bildsten, Ph.D., Cornell University, Professor (theoretical astrophysics)
Omer M. Blaes, Ph.D., International School for Advanced Studies, Trieste Italy, Associate Professor (theoretical astrophysics)
Dik Bouwmeester, Ph.D., University of Leiden, NL, Associate Professor (experimental condensed matter)
Claudio F. Campagnari, Ph.D., Yale University, Associate Professor (high energy physicsexperimental)
David S. Cannell, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Professor (statistical physicsexperimental)
Jean Carlson, Ph.D., Cornell University, Professor (theoretical condensed matter physics)
Andrew N. Cleland, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Assistant Professor (condensed matter physicsexperimental)
France A. Córdova, Ph.D., California Institute of Technology, Professor (astrophysicsexperimental)
Douglas Eardley, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (relativistic astrophysics)
Matthew P. A. Fisher, Ph.D., University of Illinois, Professor (theoretical condensed matter)
Roger Freedman, Ph.D., Stanford University, Lecturer with Security of Employment. Joint appointment with the College of Creative Studies.
Deborah K. Fygenson, Ph.D., Princeton University, Assistant Professor (biophysicsexperimental)
Steve Giddings, Ph.D., Princeton University, Professor (theoretical elementary particle physics)
David J. Gross, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (particle physicstheory)
Carl Gwinn, Ph.D., Princeton University, Professor (experimental astrophysics)
Elisabeth G. Gwinn, Ph.D., Harvard University, Associate Professor (experimental condensed matter physics)
Paul K. Hansma, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (scanning probe microscopyexperimental)
James B. Hartle, Ph.D., California Institute of Technology, Professor (relativistic astrophysicstheoretical)
Alan J. Heeger, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor, Director of Institute for Polymers and Organic Solids, 2000 Chemistry Nobel Laureate (condensed matter physicsexperimental). Joint appointment with the Department of Materials.
Gary Horowitz, Ph.D., University of Chicago, Professor (general relativity)
Atac Imamoglu, Ph.D., Stanford University, Professor (condensed matter and applied physics). Joint appointment with the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Joseph Incandela, Ph.D., University of Chicago, Professor (high energy physicsexperimental)
James S. Langer, Ph.D., University of Birmingham, Professor (condensed matter physicstheoretical). Joint appoint with the Department of Materials.
Philip M. Lubin, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (astrophysics and cosmologyexperimental)
Andreas W. W. Ludwig, Ph.D., UC Santa Barbara, Professor (condensed matter physicstheoretical)
Horia I. Metiu, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Professor (theoretical physical chemistry). Joint appointment with the Department of Chemistry.
Harry N. Nelson, Ph.D., Stanford University, Professor (elementary particle physicsexperimental)
Philip A. Pincus, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (polymers, colloids, surfactants, membranes, polymer-membrane interactions). Joint appointment with the Department of Materials.
Joseph G. Polchinski, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (elementary particle physicstheoretical)
Jeffrey Richman, Ph.D., California Institute of Technology, Professor (high energy physicsexperimental)
Francesc Roig, Ph.D., University of Massachusetts, Senior Lecturer with Security of Employment. Joint appointment with the College of Creative Studies.
Douglas J. Scalapino, Ph.D., Stanford University, Professor (condensed matter physicstheoretical)
Mark Sherwin, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor (condensed matterexperimental)
Mark Srednicki, Ph.D., Stanford University, Professor (particle physicstheoretical)
David Stuart, Ph.D., UC Davis, Assistant Professor (experimental particle physics, high-energy physics)
Robert L. Sugar, Ph.D., Princeton University, Professor (particle physicstheoretical)
Anthony Zee, Ph.D., Harvard University, Professor (particle physicstheoretical)
Paul H. Barrett, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor Emeritus
David O. Caldwell, Ph.D., UC Los Angeles, Professor Emeritus
Robert Eisberg, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Professor Emeritus
José R. Fulco, Ph.D., University of Buenos Aires, Professor Emeritus
Daniel W. Hone, Ph.D., University of Illinois, Professor Emeritus
Vincent Jaccarino, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Professor Emeritus
Walter Kohn, Ph.D., Harvard University, Professor Emeritus
Harold W. Lewis, Ph.D., Harvard University, Professor Emeritus
Rollin J. Morrison, Ph.D., University of Illinois, Professor Emeritus
Stanton J. Peale, Ph.D., Cornell University, Professor Emeritus
Raymond F. Sawyer, Ph.D., Harvard University, Professor Emeritus
Glen E. Schrank, Ph.D., UC Los Angeles, Associate Professor Emeritus
Robert Schrieffer, Ph.D., University of Illinois, Professor Emeritus
William C. Walker, Ph.D., University of Southern California, Professor Emeritus
Helen G. Hansma, Ph.D., UC Berkeley, Adjunct Associate Professor (biophysicsexperimental)
Michael Witherell, Ph.D., University of Wisconsin, Adjunct Professor (high energy physicsexperimental)
Cyrus R. Safinya, Ph.D. (Materials)
The Department of Physics offers undergraduate programs leading to the B.S. or the B.A. degree, a minor in astronomy and planetary science, and a minor in physics. It also offers a graduate program leading to a Ph.D. in physics. The bachelor of science degree requires a number of electives which may be taken according to the particular aims of the student, after consultation with a faculty advisor. It is designed to provide basic preparation for graduate school in physics, another physical science, or engineering, and for work in industry or a research laboratory. The bachelor of arts degree aims at providing students with a basic knowledge of the physical sciences that can be applied to a career in the natural or behavioral sciences, economics, or to further study in a professional school.
Students are assigned faculty advisors at the beginning of each academic year; it is the student's responsibility to meet with the advisor to plan a major program. Transfer students must consult the appropriate advisor as soon as possible.
Research Opportunities, which lists the faculty and their current research, is available at: www.physics.ucsb.edu/
Students with a bachelor's degree in physics who are interested in pursuing a California Teaching Credential should contact the credential advisor in the Gevirtz Graduate School of Education as soon as possible.
The Arnold T. Nordsieck Memorial Prize is awarded each year to an outstanding senior who has demonstrated notable promise in research.
In addition, there is an Outstanding Senior and an Outstanding Teaching Assistant prize awarded annually.
The John Cardy Award is given each year to a first-year graduate student with the strongest performance in the core graduate courses.
The physics department has special opportunities for good students at both the lower-division and the senior level. Honors discussion sections for Physics 21H, 22H, 23H, 24H, and 25H are taught by the faculty in association with the freshman/sophomore course Physics 21-25. Special honors laboratory courses (Physics 13AH, 13BH, and 13CH) require unusual creativity and are available for a few students each year. Physics 142L, 143L, and 145L are available to qualified seniors. All of the honors courses require the consent of the instructor and qualify for the College of Letters and Science Honors Program.
The physics senior honors program is available for students with at least a 3.5 grade-point average and is arranged with the help of the honors advisor at the beginning of the senior year. This program is based on one or more of the following courses: Physics 142L, 143L, 145L, 194, 198, and 199. The student prepares a written report and presents a seminar on his or her work.
Undergraduate advising. Prior to registration for the fall quarter each year, all physics majors must make an appointment with the appropriate physics advisor. The advisors' names may be obtained at the Department of Physics, Broida Hall 3019, or by calling (805) 893-3888. Before meeting with the advisor, each student must pick up the appropriate B.S./B.A. advising form from the department office. One copy of the form will be given to the student for future reference; a second copy will remain on file in the department office.
Preparation for the major. The following courses should be completed in the first two years: Physics 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 3L, 4L, 5L; Mathematics 3A-B-C, 5A-B-C; Chemistry 1A-B (or Chemistry 2A-B). The advisor can suggest a course schedule for freshmen.
Upper-division major. Fifty-six upper-division units are required for the B.S. degree in physics, including Physics 100A, 105A-B, 110A-B-C, 115A-B-C, 119A, and 128A-B. Also required are 14 additional units of upper-division physics electives, of which no more than 10 units may be earned in laboratory courses. With the consent of the department chair, 4 units of upper-division mathematics may be substituted toward the elective requirement. In order to satisfy prerequisites for those courses, which are normally taken in the senior year, students should include 100A, 105A-B, 115A-B and 119A in their junior year program.
Note: All B.S. candidates are required (1) to fulfill the General Education requirements of the College of Letters and Science for the B.S. degree; (2) to have their lower- and upper-division programs approved by the physics faculty advisor during the first quarter in which they have declared their major and subsequently once each year prior to enrollment; and (3) to maintain a C average in the major. Students who do not maintain a grade-point average of 2.0 in upper-division physics courses will be subject to dismissal from the major. (See Major Requirements)
Preparation for the major. The following courses should be completed in the first two years: Physics 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 3L, 4L, 5L; Mathematics 3A-B-C, 5A-B-C; Chemistry 1A-B (or Chemistry 2A-B). A suggested course schedule for freshmen is available from the faculty advisor.
Upper-division major. Forty-two upper-division units are required for the B.A. degree, including 30 units of upper-division physics courses and 12 units of chemistry, EEMB, geography, geology, mathematics, MCDB, physics, or engineering electives approved by a faculty advisor. Of the 30 upper-division units in physics, 6 must be upper-division laboratory.
Note: All B.A. candidates are required (1) to fulfill the General Education requirements of the College of Letters and Science for the B.A. degree; (2) to have their lower- and upper-division programs approved by the physics faculty advisor during the first quarter in which they have declared their major and subsequently once each year prior to enrollment; and (3) to maintain a C average in the major. Students who do not maintain a grade-point average of 2.0 in upper-division physics courses will be subject to dismissal from the major. (See Major Requirements)
Except for Physics 198 and 199, all courses to be applied to the minor must be completed on a letter-grade basis, including both courses offered by the Department of Physics and those offered by other departments and applied to the minor. A maximum of 5 units of Physics 198 and 199 graded P/NP may be applied to the minor.
Preparation for the minor. Physics 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 (or Physics 21, 22, 23, 24, 25); Physics 3L, 4L, 5L; Mathematics 3A-B-C (or 2A-B-3C) and 5A-B-C.
Upper-division minor. Eighteen units, distributed as follows: Physics 100A, 115A-B, and 7 units of upper-division physics electives.
Note: Substitutions and waivers are subject to approval by the chair of the department. Please see Academic Minors for special conditions governing minors in the College of Letters and Science.
Except for Physics 198 and 199, all courses to be applied to the minor must be completed on a letter-grade basis, including both courses offered by the Department of Physics and those offered by other departments and applied to the minor. A maximum of 5 units of Physics 198 and 199 graded P/NP may be applied to the minor.
Preparation for the minor. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 (or Physics 21, 22, 23, 24, 25); Physics 3L, 4L, 5L; Mathematics 3A-B-C and 5A-B-C.
Upper-division minor. Eighteen units, distributed as follows: Physics 132, 133 (note that 132 and 133 are taught every other year in alternating years, and can be taken by students in either order), and 10 units of upper-division electives chosen from: Physics 131, 134, 141, 145L, 198*, 199*; Geology 123, 124C, 124G, 159A, 159B, 198*, 199*.
*Courses with asterisks must be approved by the advisor for Astronomy and Planetary Science.
Note: Substitutions and waivers are subject to approval by the chair of the department. Please see Academic Minors for special conditions governing minors in the College of Letters and Science.
In addition to departmental requirements, candidates for graduate degrees must fulfill the university requirements described in the section "Graduate Education at UCSB."
The Department of Physics does not offer a terminal M.A. program. Admission is to the Ph.D. program only. Master's degrees may be awarded only in the case of students who leave the Ph.D. program or for continuing students who have advanced to candidacy and request the M.A. degree.
The requirements for the M.A. are (1) completion of 45 quarter-units of work, with a minimum of 32 units of graduate-level courses and the rest approved by the student's academic advisory committee; and (2) successful completion of an M.A. examination administered by the student's graduate advisory committee (successful completion of the advancement to candidacy exam fulfills this requirement).
Admission
A candidate for admission to the Ph.D. program must present an undergraduate degree in physics, or its equivalent, and Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores in the verbal, quantitative, and analytical sections as well as the Advanced Subject in physics. In addition to departmental admission requirements, applicants must also meet the university requirements for admission described in the section "Graduate Education at UCSB." A program to admit exceptionally qualified first-year students as research assistants, particularly in experimental physics, has been implemented. Further information on the program, and a description of current research, can be found at www.physics.ucsb.edu/.
Degree Requirements
First-year students will be required to pass the following graduate physics courses with a grade of B or better: Physics 205 (Classical Mechanics), 210A-B (Electromagnetic Theory), 215A-B-C (Quantum Mechanics), and 219 (Statistical Mechanics). The departmental graduate advisor can exempt students from taking a required course, or may require other courses in addition to those listed here. In addition, theoretical physics students must complete a minimum of five advanced graduate courses and experimental physics students must complete a minimum of three advanced graduate courses with a grade of B or better. At least one of these courses must be in an area clearly distinct from the student's field of specializationsuch a determination will be made by the graduate advisor. Exams will include an oral advancement to candidacy exam to be taken during fall quarter of the third year.
The final period of graduate study is primarily directed toward individual research and the preparation of a research-based dissertation. Research, either experimental or theoretical, is conducted under the supervision of a faculty member, normally in an area related to his or her own field of specialization. Students must pass an oral dissertation defense to be awarded the Ph.D.
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1. Basic Astronomy
(4) Staff
A survey of the development of astronomy with an emphasis on understanding the
observable properties of the solar system, the sun and other stars, our own
and other galaxies, and the entire universe. Topics of current interest will
be discussed as time permits. (F,W,S)
1H. Honors Supplement to Basic Astronomy
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: honors standing.
A supplement to Astronomy 1 emphasizing fundamental concepts and additional
topics in Astronomy. Intended for highly motivated and well prepared students.
(F,W,S)
2. History of the Universe
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Astronomy 1.
The content will vary with the professor and student interests. Course has included
modern extragalactic astronomy and cosmology, quasars, active galactic nuclei,
dark matter, gravitational lenses, the early universe, the origins of life,
and the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence. (S)
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1. Basic Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A.
Classical mechanics, kinematics, vectors, Newton's laws, friction and electrical
resistance, work and energy, conservation laws, momentum and collisions, rigid-body
rotation.
2. Basic Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 1 and Mathematics 3A-B.
Rotational dynamics, statics, gravitation, periodic motion including LRC electrical
circuits, fluid mechanics, temperature and heat, thermal properties of matter,
the laws of thermodynamics.
3. Basic Physics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 2; and Mathematics 3A-B-C; concurrent enrollment in
Physics 3L.
Recommended preparation: Mathematics 5A (may be taken concurrently).
Mechanical waves, wave interference and normal modes, sound and hearing, electrical
field, Gauss's law, electric potential, capacitance and dielectrics, current,
resistance, electromotive force, DC circuits.
3L. Physics Laboratory
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 3.
Introductory laboratory emphasizing experiments in electromagnetism. (F)
4. Basic Physics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 3; concurrent enrollment in Physics 4L.
Recommended preparation: Mathematics 5B (may be taken concurrently).
Magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction and inductance, AC circuits, Maxwell's
equations, electromagnetic waves, light and geometrical optics, interference
and diffraction.
4L. Physics Laboratory
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 4.
Introductory laboratory emphasizing wave motion and optics. (W)
5. Basic Physics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 4; concurrent enrollment in Physics 5L.
Recommended preparation: Mathematics 5C (may be taken concurrently).
Special relativity, blackbody radiation, Compton scattering, photoelectric effect,
Bohr model, quantum mechanics, molecules, condensed matter, nuclear physics,
elementary particle.
5L. Physics Laboratory
(1) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 4; concurrent enrollment in Physics 5.
Introductory laboratory emphasizing atomic, molecular, and condensed matter
physics. (S)
6A-B-C. Introductory Physics
(3-3-3) Staff
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A or 34A (may be taken concurrently): Physics
6A for 6B: Physics 6B for 6C.
A. Mechanics. (F,W)
B. Heat, thermodynamics, electricity, and magnetism. (W,S)
C. Electromagnetic waves, optics, modern physics. (F,S)
6AL. Introductory Experimental Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 6A.
Self-directed laboratory course where students seek to discover simple mathematical
descriptions to laws governing various physical phenomena. Each student is responsible
for deciding what to measure, how to measure it, and what interpretation can
be placed on the results. (F,W)
6BL. Introductory Experimental Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 6B.
Experiments in the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of matter,
the behavior of light, and quantum phenomena with application to the biological
sciences. (W,S)
6CL. Introductory Experimental Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 6C.
Experiments in the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of matter,
the behavior of light, and quantum phenomena with application to the biological
sciences. (F,S)
10. Concepts of Physics
(4) Staff
Not open for degree credit to students who have completed Natural Science
1A, Physics 1 or 6A. Lecture, 3 hours; discussion, 1 hour.
A survey of important concepts in physics for the nonscience major. The contents
will vary depending on the interests of the students and instructor. (W,S)
13AH. Honors Introduction to Experimental Physics
(2) Staff
Prerequisites: concurrent enrollment in Physics 3 and 3H.
Not open for degree credit to students who have completed Physics CS 15A.
Designed to introduce undergraduates to contemporary experimental research at
an early stage in their careers. Emphasis is placed on acquiring an "experimental
frame of mind", professional communication skills, and a broad range of
laboratory techniques.
13BH. Honors Experimental Physics
(2) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 13AH; concurrent enrollment in Physics 4 and 4H.
Not open for degree credit to students who have completed Physics CS 15B.
Designed to introduce undergraduates to contemporary experimental research at
an early stage in their careers. Emphasis is placed on acquiring an "experimental
frame of mind", professional communication skills, and a broad range of
laboratory techniques.
13CH. Honors Experimental Physics
(2) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 13BH; concurrent enrollment in Physics 5.
Not open for degree credit to students who have completed Physics CS 15C.
Designed to introduce undergraduates to contemporary experimental research at
an early stage in their careers. Emphasis is placed on acquiring an "experimental
frame of mind", professional communication skills, and a broad range of
laboratory techniques.
16. Undergraduate Seminar
(1) Staff
Selected topics of special interest designed to display the broad diversity
of physics. Also designed to introduce students to faculty research and department
labs. This course is strongly recommended for freshmen, transfer students, and
prospective majors within physics. (F)
21. General Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Mathematics 3A with a grade of C- or better.
Classical mechanics, kinematics, vectors, Newton's Laws, work and energy, conservation
laws, momentum and collisions, rigid-body rotation. (W)
21H. Honors Supplement to General Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 21.
Students must have a 3.3 cumulative GPA.
A supplement to Physics 21 emphasizing fundamental concepts and possible additional
topics in physics. Intended for highly motivated and well prepared students.
(S)
22. General Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 21 with a grade of C- or better; Mathematics 3A-B.
Rotational dynamics, statics, gravitation, periodic motion, fluid mechanics,
temperature and heat, thermal properties of matter, the laws of thermodynamics.
(S)
22H. Honors Supplement to General Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 22.
Students must have a 3.3 cumulative GPA.
A supplement to Physics 22 emphasizing fundamental concepts and possible additional
topics in physics. Intended for highly motivated and well prepared students.
(S)
23. General Physics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 22 with a grade of C- or better; Mathematics 3A-B-C;
concurrent enrollment in Physics 3L or 13AH.
Mechanical waves, wave interference and normal modes, sound and hearing, electric
charge and electric field, Gauss's law, electric potential, capacitance and
dielectrics, current, resistance, electromotive force, DC circuits. (offered
fall 2002-03)
23H. Honors Supplement to General Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 23.
Students must have a 3.3 cumulative GPA.
A supplement to Physics 23 emphasizing fundamental concepts and possible additional
topics in physics. Intended for highly motivated and well prepared students.
(offered fall 2002-03)
24. General Physics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 23 with a grade of C- or better; Mathematics 5A; concurrent
enrollment in Physics 4L or 13BH.
Magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction and inductance, AC circuits, Maxwell's
equations, electromagnetic waves, light and geometrical optics, interference
and diffraction. (offered winter 2002-03)
24H. Honors Supplement to General Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 24.
Students must have a 3.3 cumulative GPA.
A supplement to Physics 24 emphasizing fundamental concepts and possible additional
topics in physics. Intended for highly motivated and well prepared students.
(offered winter 2002-03)
25. General Physics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 24 with a grade of C- or better; Mathematics 5A-B;
concurrent enrollment in Physics 5L or 13CH.
Special relativity, blackbody radiation, Compton scattering, photoelectric effect,
Bohr model, quantum mechanics, molecules, condensed matter, nuclear physics,
elementary particles. (offered spring 2002-03)
25H. Honors Supplement to General Physics
(1) Staff
Prerequisite: concurrent enrollment in Physics 25.
Students must have a 3.3 cumulative GPA.
A supplement to Physics 25 emphasizing fundamental concepts and possible additional
topics in physics. Intended for highly motivated and well prepared students.
(offered spring 2002-03)
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A grade of C- or higher is required to satisfy the prerequisites for all upper-division courses. In series of courses, such as Physics 105A-B, the earlier courses are considered prerequisites for the later ones. Exceptions will be made only with the consent of the instructor.
100A-B. Methods of Theoretical Physics
(3-3) Staff
Prerequisites: Mathematics 5C for Physics 100A; Physics 100A for Physics
100B.
Mathematical methods in physics: theory of functions of complex variables, Fourier
series, integral transforms, partial differential equations of physics, boundary
value problems, Legendre and Bessel functions. Introduction to Hilbert spaces.
(F,W)
105A-B. Classical Mechanics
(3-3) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 2; Mathematics 5B (may be taken concurrently) for
Physics 105A: Physics 105A for 105B.
Dynamics of a particle and systems of particles. Harmonic oscillator. Curvilinear
coordinates. Central force motion. Scattering. Elementary rigid body motion.
Moving coordinate systems. Lagrange's equations and generalized coordinates.
Forces of constraint. Rigid body rotation. Small vibrations and normal modes.
Hamilton's equations. (W,S)
106. Nonlinear Phenomena
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 105A; or ME 163; or upper-division standing in ECE.
Same course as ECE 183 and ME 169. Not open for credit to students who have
completed ME 163C.
An introduction to nonlinear phenomena. Flows and bifurcations in one and two
dimensions, chaos, fractals, strange attractors. Application to physics, engineering,
chemistry, and biology. (S)
106G. Nonlinear Phenomena
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Students must get consent of the physics graduate advisor.
Same description as Physics 106. (S)
110A-B-C. Electromagnetism
(4-4-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 5; concurrent enrollment in Mathematics 5C for Physics
110A: Physics 110A for 110B: Physics 110B for 110C.
Electrostatics, magnetostatics, electric and magnetic properties of materials,
Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic waves, radiation from charged particles,
special relativity. (F,W,S)
115A-B-C. Quantum Mechanics
(4-4-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 5; Physics 100A or Mathematics 124A (may be taken
concurrently) for Physics 115A: Physics 115A for 115B: Physics 115B for 115C.
Inadequacies of classical physics and quantum mechanical resolutions. The postulates
of quantum mechanics. Schroedinger's equation, measurements, operators, and
observables. Angular momentum and spin, the exclusion principle, perturbation
theory and scattering theory. Application to atomic, molecular and nuclear physics.
(W,S,F)
115AG-BG. Quantum Mechanics
(4-4) Staff
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Students must get consent of the physics graduate advisor. Not open to students
who have taken Physics 115A-B-C, or the respective parts thereof in this institution.
Inadequacies of classical physics and quantum mechanical resolutions. The postulates
of quantum mechanics. Schroedinger's equation, measurements, operators, and
observables. Angular momentum and spin, the exclusion principle, perturbation
theory and scattering theory. Application to atomic, molecular and nuclear physics.
119A-B. Thermal and Statistical Physics
(3-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 5 for Physics 119A: Physics 119A for Physics 119B.
Physics 119A not open for credit to students who have completed Physics 118.
Physics 119B not open for credit to students who have completed Physics 119.
A. Thermodynamics: three laws of thermodynamics, phase diagrams, entropy, equipartition
of energy, specific heat, reversible and irreversible processes, pressure, viscosity,
thermal conductivity, diffusion. (F)
B. Statistical mechanics: Boltzmann, Fermi-Dirac, Bose-Einstein distribution
laws. Relation of thermodynamic variables and microscopic properties. (W)
119BG. Thermal and Statistical Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: graduate standing.
Students must get consent of the physics graduate advisor. Not open for credit
to students who have completed Physics 119B.
Same description as Physics 119A-B. (W)
123A-B. Condensed Matter Physics
(4-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 115A for 123A: Physics 123A for 123B.
Classification of solids; crystal symmetry, thermal electric and magnetic properties;
metals, semiconductors, and the band theory of electronic states; magnetic resonance;
superconductivity; imperfections. Emphasis will be placed on both fundamental
and applied aspects. (F)
123AG-BG. Condensed Matter Physics
(4-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 115A or 115AG for Physics 123AG: Physics 123AG for
123BG.
Open only by consent of the physics graduate advisor to graduate students who
have not taken Physics 123A-B or the respective parts.
Same description as Physics 123A-B. (F,W)
125. Elementary Particle Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 115B.
Introduction to quarks and leptons and the phenomenology of the particles they
comprise; fundamental symmetries, invariance principles, and the associated
quantum numbers, strong, electromagnetic and weak interactions and their relationship.
(S)
127A. Analog Electronics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Mathematics 3A-B or 34A-B; and, Physics 1 and 2, or 6A-B.
Passive circuits, diodes, transistors, field effect transistors, operational
amplifiers, feedback and control. Design, building and testing of analog circuits.
(F)
127B. Digital Electronics
(3) Staff
Prerequisites: Mathematics 3A-B or 34A-B; and, Physics 1 and 2, or 6A-B;
and Physics 127A.
Gates, combinational and sequential logic, multiplexes, counters, shift registers,
memory and microprocessors. Design, building and testing of digital circuitry,
including a modern microprocessor based computer system. (W)
128A-B. Advanced Experimental Physics
(3-3) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 115B for Physics 128A: Physics 128A for 128B.
Selected experiments in contemporary physics, e.g., holography, laser light
scattering zeeman effect, x-rays, superconductivity, magnetic resonance, Mossbauer
effect. (F,W)
129. Computer Interfacing
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Mathematics 3A-B or 34A-B; and, Physics 1 and 2, or 6A-B.
Not open to graduate students.
Use of personal computer for control and measurement in a hands-on project oriented
environment. Introduction to a real time multitasking operating system and the
C programming language. Basic feedback control theory. (S)
131. Gravitation and Relativity
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 105A-B.
Physics 105B may be taken concurrently only with the consent of the instructor.
An introduction to Einstein's general relativity. The spacetime of special relativity,
the principle of equivalence, gravity as geometry, the description of spacetime
geometry, the spacetime of a relativistic star, solar system tests of general
relativity, gravitational collapse, black holes, cosmology. (W)
132. Stellar Structure and Evolution
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Observed properties and classification of stars, the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram,
stellar atmospheres, hydrostatic equilibrium, energy transport, equations of
state, thermonuclear reaction rates, origin of the elements, life history of
stars, stellar death, compact objects, star formation.
133. Galaxies and Cosmology
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Observed properties of galaxies, the interstellar medium, stellar dynamics,
spiral arms, galaxy clusters, dark matter, quasars, the Hubble expansion, Friedmann
models, thermal history of the universe, the origin of the light elements, the
cosmic microwave background structure formation. (F)
134. Observational Astrophysics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Recommended preparation: Physics 132 or 133.
Techniques and implementation of observational methods in astronomy/astrophysics.
Sensors, digital-image processing and analysis, research projects with computer-controlled
remote access telescope using a digital image sensor. Studies of variable stars,
galaxy morphology, supernova, etc. (W)
135. Biophysics and Biomolecular Materials
(3) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5 or 6C.
Same course as Materials 135.
Structure and function of cellular molecules (lipids, nucleic acids, proteins,
and carbohydrates). Genetic engineering techniques of molecular biology. Biomolecular
materials and biomedical applications (e.g., bio-sensors, drug delivery systems,
gene carrier systems). (S)
141. Optics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Modern geometrical and physical optics. Polarization, coherence, interference,
and diffraction phenomena. Fourier transform spectroscopy, intensity correlation
interferometry, spatial filtering, and holography. Selected topics on lasers,
light scattering, and quantum optics as time permits.
142L. Experimental Research in Condensed Matter Physics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 5; consent of instructor.
May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units.
Offers qualified undergraduates the opportunity to work in research laboratories
in condensed matter physics.
143L. Experimental Research in Elementary Particle Physics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 5; consent of instructor.
May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units.
Offers qualified undergraduates the opportunity to work in experimental research
in elementary particle physics.
145L. Experimental Research in Astrophysics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 5; consent of instructor.
May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units.
Offers qualified undergraduates the opportunity to work in experimental research
in astrophysics. Each staff member has his/her own course identified by a letter
code. (F,W,S)
150. Special Topics in Astrophysics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times.
151. Special Topics in High Energy Physics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times.
152. Special Topics in Condensed Matter Physics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times.
157. Special Topics in Biophysics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 5.
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times.
158. Special Topics in Relativity
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 131.
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times.
198. Directed Reading
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisites: consent of instructor; upper-division standing; completion
of two upper-division courses in physics.
Students must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average for the preceding three
quarters and are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199DC/199RA
courses combined. No more than 12 units may be earned in all Physics 198/199/199DC/199RA
courses combined.
Each staff member has their own directed reading course identified by a number
code listed in the Schedule of Classes. (F,W,S)
199. Independent Studies in Physics
(1-5) Staff
Prerequisites: consent of instructor; upper-division standing; completion
of two upper-division courses in physics.
Students must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average for the preceding three
quarters and are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199DC/199RA
courses combined. No more than 12 units may be earned in all Physics 198/199/199DC/199RA
courses combined.
Directed individual study open to qualified seniors in the department. Each
staff member has their own independent studies course identified by a number
code listed in the Schedule of Classes. (F,W,S)
199RA. Independent Research Assistance
(1-5) Staff
Prerequisites: consent of instructor; upper-division standing; completion
of two upper-division courses in physics.
Students must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average for the preceding three
quarters and are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199DC/199RA
courses combined. No more than 12 units may be earned in all Physics 198/199/199DC/199RA
courses combined.
Undergraduate research for qualified seniors to gain valuable experience in
research methodology.
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200A. Mathematical Methods of Physics
(4) Staff
Mathematical techniques useful in physics, including the theory of functions
of a complex variable, linear algebra, Fourier transforms, differential equations,
special functions, Cartesian tensors, calculus of variations and numerical methods.
205. Classical Mechanics
(4) Staff
Review of Lagrangian mechanics. Variational principles. Hamilton's equations.
Canonical transformations. Hamilton Jacobi Theory. Action angle variables. Time
dependent and canonical perturbation theory. Central forces and scattering.
Small vibrations. Rigid body motion. Poincare maps. Non-Integrable systems.
Hamiltonian and dissipative chaos. (F)
210A-B. Electromagnetic Theory
(4-4) Staff
Electrostatics, magnetostatics, boundary value problems, time varying fields,
Maxwell's equations, radiation, multipole fields, scattering, relativistic particle
dynamics. (W,S)
215A-B-C. Quantum Mechanics
(4-4-4) Staff
Fundamental principles; Schroedinger equation; angular momentum; perturbation
theory; scattering theory, emission, and absorption of radiation; Dirac equation.
(F,W,S)
217A-B. The Many Body Problem in Condensed Matter Physics
(4-4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 215C.
Field theoretic methods as applied to (non-relativistic) condensed matter systems.
Green's functions and diagrammatic techniques applied to various examples of
interacting many body systems, including fermions, bosons, and spins. Relationship
of theoretical quantities to physical measurements. (W,S)
219. Statistical Mechanics
(4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 205, 215A and 119 taken at another institution.
Fundamental principles of classical and quantum statistics. Non-interacting
Boltzmann, Bose, and Fermi systems. Virial expansion and other approaches to
interacting systems. Phase transitions. (W)
220. Advanced Topics in Statistical Mechanics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 219.
Course will cover some of the following topics: a) critical phenomena-phase
diagrams, first and second order phase transitions, scaling theory, high-temperature
expansions, renormalization group; b) non-equilibrium statistical mechanics-Stochastic
processes, Langevin equations, fluctuation-dissipation theorem, master equation
, fluid dynamics. (S)
221A-B-C. Relativistic Quantum Field Theory
(4-4-4) Staff
Introduction to the theory of Lorentz covariant quantized fields. Global and
local conservation laws. Path integral formulation. Applications to quantum
electrodynamics, quantum chromodynamics, electroweak and interactions. Other
possible topics include grand unification, the renormalization group, anomalies,
current algebra, and supersymmetry. (F,W,S)
223A-B-C. Concepts and Phenomena of Condensed Matter Physics
(4-4-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 219 and 215C.
Same course as Materials 224A-B-C.
Lattice and electron dynamics. Elementary excitations and collective phenomena.
Transport properties. Disorder and localization. Long-range order and broken
symmetries. Magnetism, superconductivity and liquid crystals. Properties and
structures of polymers, membranes, and self-assembling systems. (F,W,S)
225A. Elementary Particle Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 125 or 215C.
The phenomenology of the standard model of particle physics. QED and QC process.
(F)
225B. Elementary Particle Physics
(4) Staff
Prerequisite: Physics 225A.
Weak interactions; neutrino physics; C,P, and CP violation; electroweak gauge
theory and symmetry breaking. Design of detectors and experiments; searches
for new phenomena. (W)
229A-B. Gauge Theories of Elementary Particles
(4-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 221A-B-C.
Quantum theory of non-Abelian gauge fields. Local, global, and spontaneous symmetry
breaking. Collective phenomena; solutions, instantons, and magnetic monopoles.
Effective field theories. Lattice gauge theory. Applications to the Standard
Model of elementary particles. (F,W)
230A-B. String Theory
(4-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 221B and 231B.
Introduction to string theory. Bosonic and super string theories and their spectra.
String perturbation theory and conformal field theory. Nonlinear sigma models
and spacetime structure. String compactifications and unification of forces.
Non-perturbative results and methods; dualities and branes.
231A-B-C. General Relativity
(4-4-4) Staff
Prerequisites: Physics 210A-B. Physics 231C may be repeated with consent
of instructor.
Gravity as geometry, differential geometry, Einstein's equation, relativistic
stars, gravitational collapse, black holes, cosmology, gravitational radiation,
and special topics. (F,W,S)
232. Stellar Structure and Evolution
(4) Staff
Physics of stellar structure, equations of state and heat transport. Birth of
stars and physics of brown dwarfs. Thermonuclear burning and main sequence stellar
structure. Evolution of stars and mass loss. Origin, physical structure, and
cooling of compact objects. (S)
233. The Interstellar Medium
(4) Staff
Theory and observations of the interstellar space, and the physical processes
that form and shape them. Atomic, molecular, and ionized gas; dust; heating
and cooling; shocks; generation and evolution of cosmic rays; formation of stars.
(W)
234. High Energy Astrophysics
(4) Staff
Accretion power in a range of astrophysical contexts, from quasars to galactic
black holes. Rapid release of thermonuclear energy, Type I X-ray bursts, classical
novae, Type Ia supernovae. Relativistic jets from black holes, non-thermal radiation
processes, physics of gamma-ray bursts.
235. Extragalactic Astrophysics
(4) Staff
Nebular astrophysics, active galactic nuclei, supermassive black holes, stellar
dynamics, galaxies, clusters, dark matter, gravitational lensing, the intergalactic
medium and galaxy formation. (F)
236. Cosmology
(4) Staff
Galaxy surveys, the cosmic distance ladder, redshift and expansion, Friedmann
models, classical tests, the cosmic microwave background, big bang nucleosynthesis,
structure formation.
251. Special Topics in High Energy Physics
(1-4) Staff
The course will vary from year to year according to the currents of the times.
Course may be repeated with a different topic.
252. Special Topics in Condensed Matter Physics
(1-4) Staff
The course will vary from year to year according to the currents of the times.
Course may be repeated with a different topic.
254. Special Topics in Experimental Physics
(1-4) Staff
May be repeated provided the topics vary.
Topics include experimental techniques, the physics of experimental apparatus,
and methods of analyzing experimental data. The content of the course will vary
from year to year. (F)
255. Special Topics in Theoretical Physics
(1-4) Staff
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times. Course
may be repeated with a different topic.
257. Special Topics in Biophysics
(1-4) Staff
May be repeated for credit provided topics are different.
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times.
258. Special Topics in Relativity
(1-4) Staff
May be repeated for credit provided topics are different.
Course varies from year to year according to the currents of the times.
260A. Colloquium
(1) Staff
260B. Seminar in Macromolecular Physics and Organic Solids
(1) Staff
260C. Seminar in General Relativity
(1) Staff
Talks on topics in gravity and general relativity pertinent to current doctoral
research in the field.
260D. Seminar in Theoretical Physics
(1) Staff
260E. Condensed Matter Seminar
(1) Staff
260F. Seminar in High Energy Physics
(1) Staff
260G. Graduate Seminar
(1) Staff
Weekly seminar on topics of research currently being pursued in the Department
of Physics.
260H. Seminar in Astrophysics and Cosmology
(1) Staff
Talks on topics in astrophysics and cosmology pertinent to current doctoral
research in the field.
260I. Seminar in Applied Physics
(1) Staff
Discussions of topics in materials physics and condensed matter physics pertinent
to current doctoral research.
260J. Physics Outreach
(1) Staff
Active participation in an outreach program that presents physics demonstrations
and experiments on the road to local schools in order to provide a valuable
learning experience for K-12 students.
500. Teaching Assistant Seminar
(2) Staff
No unit credit allowed toward advanced degree. Required course for all teaching
assistants.
Covers development of teaching techniques especially oriented to lower-division
physics laboratory instruction. Theoretical aspects covered at beginning of
each quarter. Practical techniques discussed including weekly meeting with class
instructor, formal evaluation, and videotaping analysis. (F)
594. Special Topics
(1-4) Staff
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
Special seminar on research subjects of current interest. Each staff member
has a seminar identified by a number code listed in the Schedule of Classes.
(F,W,S)
595. Group Studies
(1-6) Staff
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 12 units.
Each staff member has a group studies course identified by a number code listed
in the Schedule of Classes. (F,W,S)
596. Directed Reading and Research
(2-12) Staff
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
Individual tutorial. Reading and research in special topics including work done
as the basis for the dissertation. Each staff member has a directed reading
and research course identified by a number code listed in the Schedule of
Classes. (F,W,S)
599. Dissertation Preparation
(1-12) Staff
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
May be repeated for credit up to 24 units.
This course is reserved for writing the dissertation. Each staff member has
a research course identified by a number code listed in the Schedule of Classes.
(F,W,S)
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