Topics in Modern Physics

Recommended Prerequisites

Calculus I, Linear Algebra and Analytical Geometry.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical classes with presentation of the concepts and examples of practical applications, using the black board,  audiovisual means and experimental demonstrations; theoretical-practical classes where the studentssolve practical exercises, which require the understanding of theoretical concepts and promote critical reasoning; laboratory classes with execution of two different experiments.

Learning Outcomes

To provide the students with the main concepts and tools required to explain, understand and predict phenomena em Classical Physics and Quantum Physics and their relationship with Quantum Computation. Acquiring competencies in synthesis and analysis, written communication, problem solving, critical reasoning, autonomous learning, work in a group, practical application of theoretical knowledge.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Measurement in Classical Physics

2. The description of motion of a particle in classical physics.

The equation of motion of a particle in one dimension: the fundamental law of dynamics. Description of the behaviour of a particle from the potential energy and the initial conditions. Classical harmonic oscillator.

3. The description of a wave.

General equation of a wave in one dimension. Overlapping and interference. Transmission of information. Electromagnetic waves: the limits of geometrical and physical optics.

4. Quantum Physics

The probabilistic interpretation of a particle wave function. The Schrödinger equation in one dimension: examples. The problem of measurement in quantum mechanics. The spin states as an example of a binary quantum system. Bell states.

5. Quantum computing

Relation between classical bits and quantum bits or qubits. Operations with qubits. Possibilities and difficulties of implementation.

Head Lecturer(s)

Maria Helena Almeida Vieira Alberto

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Practical component: 15.0%
Two tests : 85.0%

Bibliography

•    Jorge Dias de Deus, Mário Pimenta, Ana Noronha, Teresa Peña, Pedro Brogueiro (2000) - Introdução à Física, 2ª edição, McGraw-Hill.
•    Kennneth Krane (1996) - Modern Physics, 2nd edition, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
•    Michael A. Nielsen and Isaac L. Chuang (2010) - Quantum Computation and Quantum Information, Cambridge University Press.
•    Vitaly Chepel (2006) - “Apontamentos de Tópicos de Física Moderna”, DF-FCTUC