Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will have investigated the operating principles and characteristics of sources and detectors of electromagnetic radiation from microwave frequencies up to gamma rays; have developed an understanding of the physical principles on which vacuum production and measurement are based; have understood the role and inherent limitations of optical components in modern spectrometers; have studied the fundamental laws of spectrometry and their relationship to modern spectrometry and their relationship to modern spectroscopic instrumentation; have studied the models of atomic spectra in hydrogen-like atoms and multi electron atoms; appreciate the structure of statistical thermodynamics and be able to derive and apply a range of basic statistical thermodynamic concepts.
Synopsis This subject continues the work of GAS2281 (Instrumental science) by considering the theory of operation, construction and function of modern spectrometers. Students study six topics. (1) Atomic and molecular structure (15%). (2) Sources and detectors of electromagnetic radiation (15%). (3) Optics (20%). (4) Principles of instrumentation (15%). (5) Vacuum (15%). (6) Statistical thermodynamics (20%). Each topic is an independent series of lectures and associated laboratory exercises. Each topic is individually assessed and the aggregate is the subject result. Distance education students are required to attend a vacation week to complete laboratory exercises.
Assessment Examination and assignments: 70% + Laboratory work: 30%