PHS3062

Fundamental particle physics

(SCI)

Dr Andrew Smith

6 points + An average of 2 hours lectures, 0.5 hour tutorial and 2.5 hours laboratory work per week + Second semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: PHS2011, PHS2022, MTH2010, MTH2032

Synopsis: This unit provides part of a major in experimental physics. It consists of two 12-lecture sub-units, and laboratory work. Key areas are: (1) Nuclear Physics: nuclear stability, shell model and angular momentum, radioactive decay selection rules, the neutrino and Fermi theory of beta decay, nuclear force; (2) Elementary Particles: spin, parity, isotopic spin, strangeness and baryon/ lepton number, conservation laws of the fundamental interactions, symmetry theories, and Laboratory work: experiments and simulations on relevant topics. A student not enrolled in, or not completed, PHS3042 will replace the laboratory presentation with the Professional Studies 2 sub-unit (see PHS3042).

Assessment: Examinations (2 x 1.5 hours): 48% + Laboratory work: 25% + Assignments: 27%