PH204

Modern Physics
COURSE OUTLINE
1. SEMESTER/YEAR: Semester 1, 2024

2. MODE OF DELIVERY/LOCATION: Laucala Only

3. PRE-REQUISITES: PH102 or PH103 and MA112

4. COURSE CO-ORDINATOR: Dr Ajal Kumar

5. TEACHING TEAM

Name: Dr. Ajal Kumar

Office: N249
Phone: 3232147
Email: [email protected]
Consultation Hours:

6. LECTURE TIMES & VENUE

Tuesday 2 PM 014-111
Wednesday 9 AM 014-028

7. EMERGENCY CONTACT

Name: Dr. MGM Khan

Phone: 3232593
Email: [email protected]

PH204 Course Outline – Semester I 2023 Page 1

 8. COURSE DESCRIPTION

Modern physics deals with the developments of physics in the microscopic world that
began early 20th century. It includes theories that explain the properties of the atom, the
atomic nucleus and the particles of which it is composed. The course introduces the
fundamentals of optics and gives a quantitative treatment to a number of topics involved
in optics. The course presupposes knowledge of elementary differential and integral
calculus. Knowledge of ordinary differential equations is useful in topics related to
quantum mechanics. The laboratory work involves experimentation in both
atomic/molecular and nuclear physics including some of the classic experiments, e.g.,
Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle, Frank and Hertz experiment, Zeeman effect,
Millikan's oil drop and the Hall Effect.
9. COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. Solve modern physics problems.

2. Carryout experiments in modern physics in a manner that demonstrates proficiency in

the methods of scientific enquiry.

3. Build evidence of logical organisation, sequence of ideas and transition.

10. USP GRADUATE OUTCOMES

The USP graduate outcomes are as follows:

1. Communication: Graduates will be able to communicate ideas clearly and

persuasively in structured formats using language and other modes of communication
that are appropriate for context, audience and specific disciplinary conventions.
2. Creativity: Graduates will extend boundaries of current knowledge in a particular
discipline or profession.
3. Critical thinking and quantitative reasoning: Graduates will be able to evaluate
multiple perspectives and arrive at a reasonable independent judgement based on
evidence.
4. Ethics: Graduates will demonstrate a commitment to high ethical standards in
scholarly, professional and socio-cultural practices.
5. Pacific consciousness: Graduates will recognize the cultural heritage and diversity of
Pacific societies for sustainable development in a contemporary environment.
6. Professionalism: Graduates will demonstrate the ability to carry out tasks to
acceptable standards within their profession and occupations.
7. Teamwork: Graduates will work together in a respectful and collaborative manner to
complete tasks within teams to achieve an outcome.

PH204 Course Outline – Semester I 2023 Page 2

 Physics Programme Outcomes:

1. Explain the core theories and principles of Physics.

2. Formulate solutions to real life problems.

3. Communicate scientific information in oral, written and graphical formats.

11. COURSE CONTENT

WEEK TOPIC
1 and 2 Special Theory of Relativity: Galilean transformation, Michelson-Morley
Topic 1 experiment, Lorentz transformation, length contraction, time dilation, mass
variation with velocity, Einstein’s mass-energy relation, twin paradox and
experimental confirmation of the theory of relativity.
3 Particle-like Properties of waves: Blackbody radiation, photoelectric effect,
Topic 2 Compton effect, x-ray spectra (continuous), pair production/annihilation.
4 Wavelike Nature of Particles: de Broglie theory, experimental verification,
Topic 3 matter waves, probability interpretation, Heisenberg's uncertainty
principle, complementarity principle.
5 Early Atomic Theories: Spectral series, Thomson model, Rutherford atom,
Topic 4 Bohr's atom - old quantum theory, x-ray spectra (line), correspondence
principle, the Frank-Hertz experiment, deficiencies of early atomic theories.
6 The Schrödinger Equation and Applications: Plausibility argument leading
Topic 5 to SE, Born’s interpretation, Expectation values and operators
7 TISE Required properties of Eigen functions, Energy quantization in SE
MID SEMESTER BREAK
8 Solution of TISE: The zero potential, Step Potential, Barrier Potential,
Square Well Potential
9 Infinite Square Well Potential, SHO. Revision of SE
10 The Hydrogen Atom: Results of the solution of Schrodinger equation,
Topic 6 quantum numbers, Magnetic effects on Atomic spectra, Normal Zeeman
effect probability densities, orbital angular momentum,
11 Many electron Atoms: Pauli exclusion principle, periodic table, atomic
Topic 7 spectra, Anomalous Zeeman effect, and x-rays.
12 Molecules and Laser physics
Topic 8 Molecular bonding and Spectra; molecular bonds, rotational, vibrational,
and combined states. Stimulated emission and lasers; Scientific application
of lasers, holography, quantum entanglement, Teleportation and
information and other Laser applications.
13 Physical optics
Topic9 Reflection and refraction of light at dielectric interfaces and applications,
Lorentz oscillator model, Birefringence, polarizers

12. PRESCRIBED TEXT AND OTHER RESOURCES

PH204 Course Outline – Semester I 2023 Page 3

 Prescribed Text
Thornton, S. T.; Rex, A. (2013) Modern Physics for Scientists and Engineers (4 th ed.).
Brooks Cole. USA.

References

1. Krane, K. (2012). Modern physics (3rd Ed.), John Wiley& Sons.

2. Serway, R. A., Moses C.J. and Moyer C.A. (2004). Modern physics (3rd ed.). Brooks Cole.

3. Beiser, A. (2003). Concepts of modern physics (6th ed.). New Delhi: McGraw-Hill
Publishing Company limited.

13. ALIGNMENT OF LEARNING OUTCOMES, ACTIVITIES AND ASSESSMENT

The following table demonstrates the alignment of the course learning outcomes to
appropriate activities and assessments and the links to programme and USP graduate
outcomes.

Course Learning Associated Teaching Assessment Programme Graduate

Outcome and Learning Activities Outcomes Outcomes

1. Solve modern Lectures, Short Test, Physics Knowledge

physics problems. Tutorials, Assignments, 1,2 (M),
Related YouTube on Online Critical Thinking
Moodle, Quizzes, (M),
Online/peer Final Exam Formulate
discussions on Moodle solutions (M),

2. Carryout Labs, Lab Reports 1,3 Physics Knowledge

experiments Project Video (M),
in modern physics Presentation Professionalism
in a manner that (M),
demonstrates Ethics (B),
proficiency in the Communication
methods of (M),
scientific enquiry. Team work (B),
Creativity (M),
3. Build evidence of Use laboratory writing Short Test, 1,2,3 Communication
logical skills, laboratory Lab Reports, (M),
organisation, marking guidelines Video clip Physics Knowledge
sequence of ideas and check list to write Presentation, (M),
and transition. satisfactory laboratory Final Exam Ethics(B)
reports and projects.
Actively use
Online/peer
discussions on
Moodle. Carryout
library and internet
searches on relevant
topics.

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 14. ASSESSMENT

14.1 ASSESSMENT PORTFOLIO

TYPE OF WEIGHT COMMENTS LEARNING

ASSESSMENT OUTCOME
CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT – 50%
Short Test (2) 10% + 10% One short test performed under strict supervision with 1, 3
(Week 7,13) an allocated time of 50 minutes. Test would have
descriptive and analytical problems to solve

Assignments (2) 5% There will be a maximum of 5 question per assignment. 1

This would require derivations, and solve problems
using appropriate Mathematical skills in Calculus and
algebra. Strong emphasis is placed on library and
internet research.

Online quizzes (2) 5% 2 online quiz based on recalling and understanding of 1

physics knowledge
Labs (5) and Collaborate effectively in teams in the context of 2, 3
project laboratory work.
Lab (15%) The normal laboratory write ups are submitted, Also
Project Video communicate project work effectively in the format of
(5%) a video. Details will be provided during the class.

Final Exam 50%

Final Exam 50% A summative assessment mostly on the application of
concepts taught during the semester. The exam will be 1, 3
three hours and a minimum of 40% is required for an
overall pass in this course.

14.2 PASSING THE UNIT

In order to be awarded a pass in this unit, students must:

• Achieve an overall mark of at least 50% in the course.
• At least 60% tutorial attendance.
• At least 75% lab attendance.
• Achieve at least 40% (20/50) in final examination.
• If you DO NOT comply with these criteria you are automatically deemed to have failed the
course although you will be allowed to attempt all assessments.

14.3 GRADE DISTRIBUTION

A+ A B+ B C+ C D E
85-100 78-84 71-77 64-70 57-63 50-56 40-49 0-39

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 14.4 ASSESSMENT POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

For detailed regulations, please refer to the USP Handbook and Calendar.

Plagiarism, copying materials from other sources without proper referencing and
acknowledge of the source is a serious offence and will be dealt with severely. In the
Regulations Governing Academic Misconduct section of the USP Handbook & Calendar
plagiarism is defined as “the copying of another person’s creative work and using it as one’s
own – without explicitly giving credit to the original creator. Work copied without
acknowledgement from a book, from another student’s work, from the internet or from
any other source”. If lecturer is satisfied that plagiarism has occurred, they will report the
matter to the Head of School. They can reduce marks appropriately. If the matter is seen
as serious enough it can be taken to the Student Disciplinary Committee by the Head of
School.

15. IMPORTANT DATES

Activity Week Weighting (%)

Test 1 7 10%
Test 2 13 10%
Assignment 1 5 2.5%
Assignment 2 10 2.5%
Quiz 1 4 2.5%
Quiz 2 11 2.5%
Project/Video Clip
presentation 13 5%
Laboratory
reports Due on
Fridays 3,4,6,8,10 15%

16. ADDITIONAL COURSE ATTENDANCE

16.1 TUTORIALS
Attendance in tutorials is mandatory. Students can choose their tutorial sessions by signing up on the
course shell on Moodle. All tutorials start from the second week. At least 60% tutorial attendance is
required to pass the course.

16.2 LABORATORY SESSIONS

At least 75% lab attendance is mandatory for passing the course.

Experiments are normally carried out in groups of two students. The experimental apparatus
will be provided during the lab sessions. The instruction handouts/manual will be available on
Moodle (e-copy). As for any Lab in USP, our Engineering Labs & Workshops have various OHS
requirements such as proper closed footwear, neat unobtrusive clothing, and vigilance is an
utmost due to some HIGH VOLTAGE LIVE WIRES being present in the labs. You will be required
to sign a Lab Safety Rules during the first lab when you will be briefed by the Occupational,
Health & Safety (OHS) officers in the School. Should you fail to adhere to the rules stipulated

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in the OHS guidelines, you will be asked to leave the lab immediately or may be permanently
banned from the lab by the Technician in charge.
16.3 ONLINE WORK
All course materials that will be made available on Moodle, students are encouraged to print
out notes well before time and read through it at least once so that it makes sense once
lectures are delivered. There will be online quizzes and students will submit assignment and
laboratory report on line.

17. STUDENT SUPPORT

17.1 ONLINE HELP & e-Learning INFORMATION

All information and material will be provided on Moodle share for PH204 in the
website: http://elearn.usp.ac.fj. You may login using your SOLS username and
password. Students may either call in personally or seek help via email. Any student
seeking help relating to the course via email should include the following:

From: <a valid student ID to be used> (Reason: When we send it to outside mail,
spammers can get hold of our address to send us junk mail and it is time consuming
to scan through all emails)
Subject: <PH204 – xxxxxxx> (This is to ensure that mail filters in my mail client is able
to filter it to the PH204 course folder & I can give priority to your mail.
Message Body: write concisely what you need to be clarified. Also include your name
at the end. It is an uncourteous gesture not to include the sender’s name.

17.2 CFL SLS SERVICES

CFL Student Learning Specialists provide you with professional assistance for successful
study and help you develop as an independent active learner. Student Learning Support
services are provided at the Hub. The student support staff will:

• help you to adapt to the new environment and expectations of students at the
USP.
• have one-to-one consultations with you to discuss any challenges that you may
be facing in your studies.
• connect you to mentors (study buddies) who will guide you and facilitate group
discussions with other students in your courses.
• conduct special workshops to upskill and equip you for your assessments and
examinations.( e.g. Literature Review, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, etc.)
NB Check your student webmail for advertisements.
• help you unpack and understand your assignments and tutorial questions.
• assist you with English language and mathematics basic skills.
• provide specific assistance for students with disability.

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 • assist students who are not performing up to par.

SLS staff contacts:

Name Phone Email Office Location
Mr. Ram Singh 3237167 [email protected] SLS Hub
Ms. Salanieta Koro 3231910 [email protected] SLS Hub
Ms. Afshana Anzeg 3232264 [email protected] SLS Hub

17.3. AT-RISK STUDENTS

Extra Help (Remedial) Sessions are compulsory for students who have demonstrated prior weak
performance. Extra Help Sessions must be taken in addition to regular tutorials, and a minimum
attendance of 60% in these sessions is required to pass the course. Students who qualify for Extra
Help Sessions will be notified by the Course Coordinator prior to the 3rd week of the semester. The
purpose of these sessions is to provide students who have struggled in the past (“C“grade or less in
prerequisite courses) by providing additional contact with teaching staff to help them succeed in the
course. The type of extra help offered in these sessions is determined by the Course Coordinator.
Qualifying students will be identified by the Faculty. Based on student marks at mid-semester, the
Course Coordinator may require struggling students to attend Extra Help Sessions during the second
half of the semester. These sessions can include extra tutorials, workshops, peer mentoring, etc.

EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS

18.1 STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Students are expected to:
• Spend enough time on Moodle and other activities required in the course
• Attend all lectures, workshops, team meetings etc. unless hampered by illness in which case
you must inform your course coordinator and team members.
• Arrange with the team members to work in their own times on the project.
• Maintain proper attire for the laboratory, clothing, shoes etc.
• Facilitate the course coordinator with any proof that he/she was sick and unable to attend
classes or assessment at the earliest possible time to avoid getting a zero mark for the missed
assessment.

18.2 STUDENT WORKLOAD

Comments
Type Hours

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 Lecture 2 x13 = 26 Students are expected to complement the
lecture material with notes posted on Moodle
and other resources
Tutorial 1 x12 = 12 Students are expected to have at least
attempted the tutorial questions before the
class
Laboratory ( Labs +projects) (10x3 +4x3) = Pre lab research is strongly encouraged. A
42 strong emphasis is on instrumentation and data
acquisition techniques
Assignment/tutorial 3 x 12 = 36 Students are expected to do adequate research
preparation and group discussion to answer the exercises
and given problems
Test preparation 15 x 2 = 30 Students are encouraged to utilize all available
resources to prepare for tests
Exam preparation 1 x30 = 30 Individual and group discussions are expected
for a successful preparation
Informal discussions& 20 Apart from given resources, students are
research required to adequately prepare themselves
through peer discussions, library and internet
research.
Total 198 These many input hours are sufficient for a
successful completion of this courses

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