PHS3131

Theoretical physics I

(SCI)

Dr Trevor Hicks

6 points + An average of 2 hours lectures, one 1-hour tutorial/ workshop, one 1-hour seminar per week + First semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: PHS2011, PHS2022, MTH2010, MTH2032 + Corequisite: PHS3031

Synopsis: This subject provides part of a major in theoretical physics. The key areas of study are: tensors in pseudo Euclidian spaces, Lorentz transforms, world lines proper time, energy-momentum 4-vectors, action & variational methods, Lagrangians & Hamiltonians, acceleration, metric & Riemannian spaces, consequences of Einstein's assumptions, complex variable theory, Cauchy's theorem, contour integrals, residues & poles, complex energy plane, Riemannian surfaces & topology, Laplace & z transforms, free propagators, Hilbert transform, causality, Kramer-Kronig, conformal mappings, introduction to analytical packages, exercises in programming, seminar participation in theoretical problems.

Assessment: Examinations (2 x 1.5 hours): 48% + Assignments: 27% + Seminar contribution: 25%