Faculty of Science

School of Physics

PHYS3QP: Quantum Physics Module (Normal and

Advanced)
Semester 1 , 2017 | 6 Credit Points | Coordinator: A/Prof Boris Kuhlmey
(boris.kuhlmey@sydney.edu.au)

1 Introduction
Normal
This course builds on the Intermediate Physics Quantum Physics module. In these lectures we apply the
energy eigenvalue equation to square wells and the 1D harmonic oscillator, before moving on to the 3D
hydrogen atom, a major focus of this module. After a detailed look at the quantization of orbital angular
momentum, the wave functions for the hydrogen atom eigenstates are presented. The principles of addition
of angular momentum allow us to discuss fine and superfine structure. Along with the Lamb shift, this
provides a complete description of the structure of the hydrogen atom. A major component of these
lectures is the quantum description of systems of identical particles, the structure of helium being a
particular example. Perturbation techniques will be covered qualitatively in the context of the Zeeman effect
and the interaction of radiation with atoms: spontaneous emission, stimulated emission and absorption.
Throughout the lectures there will be a strong emphasis on applications and the relevance of the topics
covered to modern quantum physics. The course content is defined in terms of the textbook. However, the
material may not necessarily be covered in the same order as in the textbook.

Advanced

This course develops our understanding of quantum physics as applied to atomic structure and the
interaction of light and matter. It builds on concepts and techniques introduced in Junior and Intermediate
Physics which presented the concepts of the wavefunction, spin, and driven coherent oscillations. Our
primary objective will be to use and develop techniques of quantum mechanics to model and predict the
energy-level structure of electrons in atoms. This approach will introduce techniques useful in the broad
field of quantum physics, but it will also lay the foundation for understanding major accomplishments in
modern atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics as well as technologies such as atomic clocks. The
course content is defined in terms of the textbook. However, the material may not necessarily be covered
in the same order as in the textbook.

The Normal version of this module is a component of the unit PHYS 3042, 3043 and 3044.The Advanced
version of this module is a component of the units PHYS 3942, 3943 and 3944. In both cases this module
can be considered as 2 credit points of the 6 credit points associated with each unit.

1.1 Assumed Knowledge and Prohibitions

Assumed Knowledge:
 PHYS2011 or PHYS2911 and PHYS2012 or PHYS2912 (Average of 70 required for Advanced)
MATH2061 or MATH2961 or MATH2067

2 Course Aims, Learning Objectives and

Graduate Attributes

2.1 Course Aims

Normal

The course presents the solution of the energy eigenvalue equation for the hydrogen atom and follows with
approximate treatments of fine and hyperfine structure. This includes a discussion of the quantisation of
angular momentum. The second major component deals with systems of identical particles, with the atomic
structure of helium the main example. A strong theme throughout the course is the interaction of light with
atoms and molecules. Emphasis is given to the applications of the knowledge gained to a diverse range of
applications including spectroscopy, lasers, atomic clocks and Bose-Einstein condensation.

Advanced

This course will provide a detailed introduction to the quantum theory of atomic structure and light-matter
interaction. This material is essential to an undergraduate physics curriculum and unifies concepts
previously encountered in quantum physics modules, principles of chemistry, and key experiments in
modern physics. By the conclusion of the module you should be familiar with the electronic structure of
single and multi-level atoms, angular momentum and its central role therein, key concepts in the interaction
of atoms with electromagnetic fields, and mathematical techniques used in quantum mechanics such as
perturbation theory and the operator formalism in space. The course will be contextualized, setting out a
problem to understand in the first lecture and working towards a complete picture of the relevant physics by
the end of the module.

2.2 Learning Outcomes

After successfully completing this unit, you should be able to demonstrate:

1. (Normal) A sound knowledge of the atomic structure of hydrogen including fine and hyperfine
structure and the principles of the interaction of light with atoms and molecules; an
understanding of the quantum features of systems of identical particles and the consequences
for the atomic structure of helium; an understanding of the principles governing the interaction
of light with atoms and molecules; a knowledge of the applications of the concepts studied and
modern developments in quantum physics.
2. (Advanced) You will be able to employ operator formalism for problems in atomic structure, the
quantum treatment of angular momentum, and light-matter interaction. You will understand
how these techniques may be applied to problems in modern atomic physics.
3. the ability to apply these concepts to develop models, and to solve qualitative and quantitative
problems in scientific and engineering contexts, using appropriate mathematical and computing
techniques as necessary;
4. the ability to find and analyse information and judge its reliability and significance;
5. the ability to communicate scientific information appropriately, both orally and through written
work;
6. a sense of responsibility, ethical behaviour and independence as a learner and as a scientist.
2.3 Graduate Attributes

Graduate Attributes are generic attributes that encompass not only technical knowledge but additional
qualities that will equip students to be strong contributing members of professional and social communities
in their future careers. The overarching graduate attributes identified by the University relate to a graduates
attitude or stance towards knowledge, towards the world, and towards themselves. These are understood
as a combination of five overlapping skills or abilities, the foundations of which are developed as part of
specific disciplinary study. For further details please refer to the Science Faculty website at:
http://www.itl.usyd.edu.au/graduateAttributes/facultyGA.cfm?faculty=Science

Learning
Graduate Attributes
Outcomes

A Research and Inquiry

A1. Apply scientific knowledge and critical thinking to identify, define and
analyse problems, create solutions, evaluate opinions, innovate and 2, 3, 4
improve current practices.
A2. Gather, evaluate and deploy information relevant to a scientific
1, 2, 3, 4
problem.
A4. Critically examine the truth and validity in scientific argument and
2, 3, 4
discourse, and evaluate the relative importance of ideas.

B Information Literacy

B1. Use a range of searching tools (such as catalogues and databases)

4
effectively and efficiently to find information.
B2. Access a range of information sources in the science disciplines, for
example books, reports, research articles, patents and company 4
standards.
B3. Critically evaluate the reliability and relevance of information in a
1, 2, 3, 4
scientific context.
B5. Use information technology to gather, process, and disseminate
4, 5
scientific information.

C Communication

C2. Write and speak effectively in a range of contexts and for a variety of
2, 5
different audiences and purposes.
C4. Present and interpret data or other scientific information using
3, 4, 5
graphs, tables, figures and symbols.
C5. Work as a member of a team, and take individual responsibility within
6
the group for developing and achieving group goals.
C6. Take a leadership role in successfully influencing the activities of a
1, 2, 6
group towards a common goal.

D Ethical, Social and Professional Understanding

 D1. Demonstrate an understanding of the significance and scope of ethical
principles, both as a professional scientist and in the broader social
6
context, and a commitment to apply these principles when making
decisions.
D2. Appreciate the importance of sustainability and the impact of science
within the broader economic, environmental and socio-cultural 6
context.

E Personal and Intellectual Autonomy

E1. Evaluate personal performance and development, recognise gaps in

3, 4, 5
knowledge and acquire new knowledge independently.

3 Study Commitment
This module consists of 19 lectures and the work associated with them. A suggested study commitment
might be as follows:

In class activities Hours Independent Study Hours

Lectures (19 @ 1 hr 19 Reading of text for lectures (19 @ 0.5 hr each) 9.5
each)
Reading of lecture notes after lectures (19 @ 0.5 hr
9.5
each)
Total 19
Assignments (2 @ 7 hr each) 14
Preparation of Quizzes (5 @ 0.5 hr each) 2.5
Exam Preparation 15

Total 50.5

Study Tips
You are in control of your own study strategy, and as an adult learner it is up to you to devise a study plan
that best suits you. If you attend classes regularly you should gain a good understanding of the course
work. Our experience indicates that not all students attend lectures regularly and this has a considerable
negative impact on their exam preparation and performance.

Good study habits are also very important - we offer some suggestions on our Learning Physics web
page (http://sydney.edu.au/science/physics/current/learningphysics.shtml).

4 Learning and Teaching Activities

Class timetabling
Quantum Physics (Normal)

There will be 19 lectures starting on Friday 28 April and ending Friday 9 June. Lectures will be
supplemented by weekly in-class quizzes from week 9.

Venue and Times: Physics Lecture Theatre 1 Tuesday 9am, Thursday 9am and Friday 1pm

Quantum Physics (Advanced)

There will be 19 lectures starting on Friday 28 April and ending Friday 9 June. Lectures will be
supplemented by weekly in-class quizzes from week 9.

Venue and times: Physics Lecture Theatre 5 Tuesday 9am, Thursday 9am and Friday 1pm

The week-by-week timetable for all semester 1 Physics units can be found on the Senior Physics website:

http://sydney.edu.au/science/physics/current/sphys/timetable_weekly_1.shtml

5 Teaching Staff and Contact Details

Unit
Email
Coordinator

A/Prof
Boris boris.kuhlmey@sydney.edu.au
Kuhlmey

Teaching
Email Room Phone Note
Staff

Sydney
Prof Quantum
Nanoscience 9036
Michael Michael.biercuk@sydney.edu.au Physics -
Hub A31, 5301
Biercuk Advanced
Room 3005
Dr Physics Quantum
9351
Michael michael.schmidt@sydney.edu.au Building, Physics -
3810
Schmidt Room 368 Normal

6 Learning Resources
Reference (Normal and Advanced)

Normal

The textbook is Quantum Mechanics by David H. McIntyre. All students will be expected to have access to
a copy. It can be bought from the Co-Op bookshop. Copies are available in the Scitech library, including on
2 hour loan. The lectures will use the notation and approach used by McIntyre.

There are many texts on quantum mechanics. A Modern Approach to Quantum Mechanics by John S.
Townsend uses a similar approach, but at a slightly higher mathematical level. Older textbooks that cover
similar topics but do not emphasise the spin-first approach include :

Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles, R. Eisberg and R. Resnick, 2nd
Senior Physics outline 2013 2 Edition, Wiley (1985).
An Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, A.P. French and E.F. Taylor, Thomas Nelson (1979)
Physics of Atoms and Molecules, B.H. Bransden and C.J. Joachain, Longman (1983, 2003).
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, B.H. Bransden and C.J. Joachain, Longman (1989, 2000)

There are also many popular books on Quantum Physics, including:

In Search of Schrdinger's Cat, J. Gribben, Corgi (1985)

In Search of Schrdinger's Kittens, J. Gribben, (1996)
Quantum Technology, G. Milburn, Allen and Unwin (1996)
Quantum, Manjit Kumar, Icon Books (2009)
The New Quantum Age: From Bell's Theorem to Quantum Computation and Teleportation, Andrew
Whitaker, OUP (2012)

Advanced

The textbook is A Modern Approach to Quantum Mechanics by John Townsend. All students will be
expected to have access to a copy. It can be bought from the Co-Op bookshop and electronic versions are
available from the publisher. Quantum Mechanics by David H. McIntyre is a recommended complement.
Relevant sections of this textbook will be made available online through eLearning.

Another Book that may be helpful is Laser Cooling and Trapping by Harold Metcalf. Fisher Undergraduate
Library has many copies that can be borrowed for one week.

COURSE CONTENT (Normal)

The sections of McIntyre relevant to the course content are indicated below. In some of the topics covered
(see lecture by lecture outline), elementary concepts will be covered in more detail than in McIntyre. Some
applications will go beyond topics in McIntyre.

Chapter 5 Quantized Energies: Particle in a Box

5.1 Spectroscopy
5.2 Energy Eigenvalue Equation
5.3 The Wave Function
5.4 Infinite Square well
5.5 Finite Square Well (qualitative)
5.6 Compare and Contrast
5.7 Superposition and Time Dependence
5.8 Modern Application: Quantum Wells and Dots

Chapter 7 Angular Momentum

7.1 Separating Center-of-Mass and Relative Motion

7.2 Energy Eigenvalue Equation in Spherical Coordinates
7.3 Angular Momentum
7.4 Separation of Variables: Spherical Coordinates
7.6.1 Series Solution of Legendres Equation (qualitative)
7.6.3 Energy Eigenvalues of a Rigid Rotor
7.6.4 Spherical Harmonics
7.6.5 Visualization of Spherical Harmonics

Chapter 8 Hydrogen Atom

 8.1 The Radial Eigenvalue Equation
8.2 Solving the Radial Equation (qualitative)
8.3 Hydrogen Energies and Spectrum
8.4 The Radial Wave Functions
8.5 The Full Hydrogen Wave Functions
8.6 Superposition of States

Chapter 9 Harmonic Oscillator

9.1 Classical Harmonic Oscillator

9.2 Quantum Mechanical Harmonic Oscillator (qualitative)
9.3 Wave Functions
9.9 Molecular Vibrations

Chapter 10 Nondegenerate Perturbation Theory

10.3 Nondegenerate Perturbation Theory

Chapter 11 Hyperfine Structure and the Addition of Angular Momenta

11.1 Hyperfine Interaction

11.2 Angular Momentum Review
11.5 The Coupled Basis (qualitative)
11.6 Addition of Generalised Angular Momenta (qualitative)
11.7 Angular Momentum in Atoms and Spectroscopic Notation

Chapter 12 Perturbation of Hydrogen

12.1 Hydrogen Energy Levels

12.2 Fine Structure of Hydrogen
12.3 Zeeman Effect

Chapter 13 Identical particles

13.1 Two Spin-1/2 Particles

13.2 Two Identical Particles in One Dimension
13.3 Interacting Particles (qualitative)
13.4 Example: The helium Atom (qualitative)
13.5 The Periodic Table

Chapter 14 Time-Dependent Perturbation Theory

14.1 Transition Probability

14.2 Harmonic Perturbation
14.3 Electric Dipole Interaction (except 14.3.2)
14.4 Selection Rules (qualitative)

COURSE CONTENT (Advanced)

Chapter 1: Dirac Notation and State Vectors

1.3: The Quantum State Vector

1.6: Summary, Quantum State Vector

Chapter 2: Rotation of Basis States

2.2: Rotation operators

2.3: The Identity and projection operators
2.4 Matrix representation of operators
2.5 Changing Representation

Chapter 3: Angular Momentum

Chapter 3: Angular Momentum

3.1: Rotations do not commute and neither do the generators

3.2: Commuting operators
3.3: The eigenvalues and eigenstates of angular momentum
3.4: The matrix elements of the raising and lowering operators
3.5: Uncertainty relations and angular momentum
3.6: The spin-1/2 eigenvalue problem

Chapter 4: Time Evolution

4.1: The Hamiltonian and the Schroedinger Equation

4.2 Time dependence of expectation values

Chapter 5: A system of spin-1/2 particles

5.1: The basis states for a system of two sin-1/2 particles

5.2: The hyperfine splitting of the ground state of hydrogen
5.3: The addition of angular momenta for two spin-1/2 particles
5.7: The density operator

Chapter 6: Wave Mechanics in One Dimension

6.1: Position eigenstates and the wave function

6.2: The translation operator
6.3: The generator of translations
6.4: The momentum operator in the position basis
6.9: The particle in a box

Chapter 9: Translational and rotational symmetry in the two-body problem

9.3: Relative and centre-of-mass coordinates

9.4: Estimating ground-state energies using the uncertainty principle
9.5: Rotational invariance and conservation of angular momentum
9.6: A complete set of commuting observables
9.8: Position-space representations of angular momentum in spherical coordinates
9.9: Orbital angular momentum eigenfunctions

Chapter 10: Bound states of central potentials

10.1: The behavior of the radial wavefunction near the origin

10.2: the coulomb potential and the Hydrogen atom

Chapter 11: Time-independent perturbations

11.1: Nondegenerate perturbation theory

11.2: Degenerate perturbation theory
11.3: The Stark effect in Hydrogen
11.6:The energy levels of Hydrogen
11.7: The Zeeman effect in Hydrogen

Chapter 14: Photons and atoms

14.2: The Hamiltonian for the Electromagnetic field

14.4: The Hamiltonian of the Atom and the Electromagnetic field
14.5: Time-dependent perturbation theory
14.6: Fermis Golden Rule
14.7: Spontaneous Emission
14.9: Higher-order processes.

Appendix B: The addition of Angular Momenta

McIntyre:
Chapter 11: Hyperfine structure and the addition of angular momentum

11.6: Addition of generalized angular momenta (not examinable)

11.7: Angular momentum in atoms and spectroscopic notation

Chapter 13:

13.5: The Periodic Table

Chapter 14:

14.2: Harmonic Perturbation

14.3.1: The Einstein Model

Metcalf:

Chapter 2: The Density Matrix

2.2: Spontaneous Emission

2.3: The Optical Bloch Equations

Chapter 3: Force on Two-Level Atoms

3.1: Laser light pressure

3.2: A two-level atom at rest
3.3: Atoms in motion

LECTURE-BY-LECTURE OUTLINE (NORMAL)

References to the textbook Quantum Mechanics by David H McIntyre are shown where relevant.

Lecture 1: review of Basic Concepts in Quantum Physics: Schrdigner Equation; 1D examples (M: 5.2-6)

Lecture 2: Review of Basic Concepts in Quantum Physics Part 2: 1D examples; harmonic oscillator (M:
5.2-6, 9.1-3, 9.9)

Lecture 3: Multi-dimensional Problems in QM; separation of Variables; application to hydrogen Atom (M:
7.1-7.3)

Lecture 4: Quantisation of angular momentum and application to molecular vibrational-rotational spectra

(M: 7.3-7.4)

Lecture 5 (+QUIZ): Orbital angular momentum; spherical harmonics (M: 7.4-6)

Lecture 6: Wave functions for hydrogen atom (M: 8.1-2)

Lecture 7: Hydrogen energy spectrum; energy levels and emission series (M: 8.3-4)

Lecture 8 (+QUIZ): Hydrogen orbitals; superposition of states; emission and absorption of radiation by
atoms (M: 8.4-6)

Lecture 9: Transition probability; life time of excited state; absorption and stimulated emission; selection
rules; Einstein relations

Lecture 10: Magnetic moments, gyromagnetic ratio, ESR, NMR

Lecture 11 (+QUIZ): Non-degenerate perturbation theory (M: 10.1-3, 10.5)

Lecture 12: Fine structure; spin-orbit coupling; Diracs theory; Lamb shift (M: 12.1-2)

Lecture 13: Hyerfine structure; addition of angular momenta (M: 11.1-2, 5-7 simplified)

Lecture 14 (+QUIZ): Identical particles, symmetry requirements, fermions and bosons (M: 13.1-4)
Lecture 15: Helium atom; Pauli exclusion principle, electron-electron interaction, exchange energy (M:
13.3-4)

Lecture 16 Bose-Einstein condensation; multielectron atoms; periodic table; laser cooling (M 13.3-4)

Lecture 17 (+QUIZ): Fermi's golden rule (M: 14.1-2)

Lecture 18: Transition probabilities, selection rules (M: 14.3-4)

Lecture 19: Zeeman and Paschen-Back effect (M: 12.3)

LECTURE-BY-LECTURE OUTLINE (Advanced)

Week 7 Pre-Reading: Townsend 1.3, 1.6, 2.3, 2.4, 3.2

Lecture 1: Course overview and rationale; introduction of laser-cooling of atoms. Review of Dirac notation
and state-space. Operators in quantum mechanics; Commutation Relations

Week 8 Pre-Reading: Townsend 4.1, 4.2, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.9

Lecture 2: Time evolution and the Schroedinger equation. The Hamiltonian as the generator of time
translations. Wavefunctions in infinite-dimensional Hilbert spaces; Position and Momentum Operators;

Lecture 3: Uncertainty relations; Time-independent Schroedinger equation; Particle in a box

Lecture 4: Introduction to wave mechanics in 3D; The generator of rotations; Angular momentum

Week 9 Pre-Reading: Townsend 2.2, 3.1, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 9.3, 9.5, 9.6

Lecture 5: (+QUIZ) Angular momentum eigenstates; Ladder operators; Spin-1/2 systems;

Lecture 6: Angular momentum in a 3D spherical system;

Lecture 7:Solving the Schroedinger Equation in a 3D radially symmetric potential;

Week 10 Pre-Reading: Townsend 9.8, 9.9, 10.1, 10.2. McIntyre 11.7, 13.5

Lecture 8 (+QUIZ): The spherical harmonics; Intrinsic vs orbital angular momentum;

Lecture 9: The Hydrogen atom; Radial wavefunctions; Hydrogenic wavefunctions; Hydrogen spectroscopy

Lecture 10: Hydrogen Spectroscopy; Selection Rules; Multielectron Atoms; Spectroscopic Notation

Week 11 Pre-Reading: Townsend 11.1, 11.2, 11.5, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3. McIntyre 11.1-11.7

Lecture 11 (+QUIZ): Nondegenerate Perturbation Theory

Lecture 12: Degenerate perturbation theory; spin-orbit coupling; Fine structure;

Lecture 13: Addition of angular momentum; Hyperfine structure; Generalized Clebsch-Gordan coefficients;

Week 12 Pre-Reading: Townsend 11.3, 11.7, 14.2, 14.4, 14.5, 14.6, McIntyre 11.6

Lecture 14 (+QUIZ): Atoms in static fields; The Stark Effect; The Zeeman effect; The Hamiltonian for
classical fields; Charged particle in an EM field; Radiation;

Lecture 15: Time-dependent perturbation theory; The interaction picture

Lecture 16: Fermis golden rule.

Week 13 Pre-Reading: Townsend 14.7, 14.9. McIntyre 14.2, 14.3.1. Metcalf 2.2, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3

Lecture 17 (+QUIZ): Electric dipole approximation; Selection Rules; Spontaneous and Stimulated
Emission;

Lecture 18: Laser-driven transitions; the density matrix;

Lecture 19: optical Bloch equations; Optical forces on atoms and laser cooling of atoms non examinable

Web Resources
The lecturer's notes will be avalable on Blackboard (elearning.sydney.edu.au), usually accessed by
students through MyUni (sydney.edu.au/myuni), the student portal providing University information and
sevices. Access to MyUni and Blackboard requires a Unikey username and password that is issued with
your confirmation of enrolment. The University provides computer facilities described on the Student IT
pages (http://sydney.edu.au/ict/student).

Email
The University provides you with email access based on your username. We will use this email address to
provide you with important information regarding this unit of study. We expect you to periodically read
your email account or to forward mail from it to an account you do read (e.g. a gmail account).

Where to go for Help

If you need help, you can:

as a first step, always check your unit Blackboard site for information, documents and links.
go to the Physics Office, Room 210 in the Physics Building, or phone 02 9351 3037.
ask your duty tutor
ask your lecturer
consult one of the many services provided by the University. These can be found at
http://sydney.edu.au/current_students/student_services/ or through your MyUni pages
(http://myuni.usyd.edu.au).
email the Senior Physics Coordinator: A/Prof Boris Kuhlmey (boris.kuhlmey@sydney.edu.au)

7 Assessment Tasks

You are responsible for understanding the University policy regarding assessment and
examination, which can be found in the University Policy Register at
http://sydney.edu.au/policies/
To achieve good results, students in physics must be able to express themselves accurately by clear,
efficient use of the English language in their written work. Spelling, grammar, punctuation and correct use
of language will be taken into account when written reports and examination work are assessed. You
should refer to the Universitys WriteSite (http://writesite.elearn.usyd.edu.au/) if you are looking for guidance
on grammar and other aspects of academic and professional writing.

Assessment
Assessment of this unit of study is based on an understanding of the Course Content
demonstrated in a combination of assessments - a final examination, a mid-semester
examination and assignments spaced through the semester.
Note that a result is returned for the entire unit of study, not this module separately.

Late Assignments
Late Assignments
Assessments submitted late without permission will incur an immediate late penalty equal
to 10% of the maximum mark. 24 hours later a further 20% penalty will be imposed for
assignments between 1 and 7 days late, with extra 20% penalties imposed after each one
week period from the due date until the assessment is submitted or submissions are closed.
For example, on an assessment given a mark of 7/10, the penalty would be 1 mark if
submitted up to 24 hours late, resulting in a final mark of 6/10. If the assessment is
submitted up to 1 week late, the final mark would be 4/10. An assessment will not
ordinarily be accepted after a solution for the assessment is released or marked
assessments are returned to other students.

Final mark and grade

The final mark in a unit is the total mark for the component modules (including lab/Special
Project), weighted by the credit value of each, and the grade is assigned accordingly. A
pass grade in a Normal unit requires a pass in the core lecture module (Electromagnetism
or Quantum Physics or Statistical Mechanics), if the unit includes a core module. A pass
grade in an Advanced unit requires a pass in all component modules in the unit (including
lab/Special project).

TURNITIN SUBMISSION
For assignments:
All assignments in this unit should be submitted online through the Turnitin link provided
on the eLearning site for this unit. Please ensure your SID is prominent on your assignment
(e.g. perhaps in a header or footer).
Assignments may be submitted in one of two formats:
Text-based PDFs (e.g. in Word, use 'save as' and choose PDF). This should ensure
that they appear formatted as you intended. If the assignment contains equations,
then we recommend you use the Word Equation Editing tools (or equivalent).
If the assignment has a significant content of equations (symbolic or numerical), a
partially or fully scanned PDF version of a handwritten assignment is also
acceptable. Scanning at 150dpi or greater is recommended. Photographs of pages are
also acceptable but you MUST ensure that the resulting image is clear and easily
readable.
In all cases, unclear or illegible assignments will not be marked.
Assignments must be submitted online by 11:59pm on the due date date. Ensure you
click Confirm to complete the submission of your assignment. You should then receive an
email acknowledgement of your submission.

NEW- After uploading a file, Turnitin opens a window showing the content as uploaded.
If your file doesnt show up clearly and correctly, with all intended pages, you will need
to fix the problem. Any new submissions correcting a problem after the due date will be
counted as a late submission.
7.1 Summative Assessments

Assessment Percentage Learning

Brief Description Due Date
Task Mark Outcomes
Assignment 1 Category: Submitted work 20 Week 10 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,
Type: Assignment Friday, 19 May 6
2017 at 11.59 pm
Individual or group
assessment: Individual
Assignment 2 Category: Submitted work 20 Week 13 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,
Type: Assignment Friday, 09 June 6
2017 at 11.59 pm
Individual or group
assessment: Individual
Quizzes Category: In-class 20 Weekly (weeks: 1, 2, 4, 5
assessment 9, 10, 11, 12 and
Type: Tutorial quiz or small 13)
test or small continuous
assessment

Individual or group
assessment: Individual
Final Category: Exam 40 Exam Period 1, 2, 4, 5
Examination Type: Final exam

Individual or group
assessment: Individual

Descriptions of Summative Assessments

Assignment 1
There will be two assignment question sheets available from the Blackboard site. Students
submit individual (not group) responses to assignments.
We encourage students to discuss assignments, but we will NOT accept assignments that
are simply copied between students or from any other source. You should write your final
answers independently, expressing the answers in your own words and with your own
working. Allowing your work to be copied is unfair to other students and ultimately, does
not help the student copying from your work.

You are reminded that, whilst it is acceptable to collaborate on an assignment with other
students, you must write your own version of the answer.

Assignments must be submitted electronically through turnitin (see above).

The School of Physics does not take responsibility for lost assignments. You are advised
to keep a copy of all assignments submitted.
Quizzes
Each quiz will constitute short-answer style questions designed to test understanding of key concepts, and
will be administered in-class during lectures.

Final Examination
A one-hour examination covering the material included in this module is held at the end of the
semester. You will be asked to write descriptive answers to questions, to explain physical principles and to
answer quantitative questions, all aimed at demonstrating your progress in achieving the goals of the unit.
An ability to memorise formulae and manipulate them without understanding the associated concepts will
not be rewarded. Proof of identification is required at all examinations. Note that you must bring your own
non-programmable calculator to the examination. See the University policy on calculators at
http://www.usyd.edu.au/current_students/student_administration/examinations/students.shtml#calculators

7.2 Assessment Grading

Final grades in this unit are awarded at levels of HD (High Distinction), DI (Distinction), CR (Credit), PS
(Pass) and FA (Fail) as defined by the Academic Board Assessment Coursework Policy 2014. These
achievement levels are described below. Details of the policy are available on the Universitys Policy
Online website at http://www.sydney.edu.au/policies/.

Assessment tasks are moderated to ensure their appropriateness, their consistency with the achievement
level descriptors below and equity of grade distributions across the units offered by the Faculty of Science.
In Senior Physics, our aim is to give everyone a chance of a high grade, irrespective of their unit of study.
To achieve this, we compare student marks with student AAMs, and compare Normal and Advanced units
by having some assessment tasks in common. We use this comparison to ensure one class isn't being
disadvantaged by, say, a difficult assessment task. The result of this moderation process is a higher
percentage of HDs and Ds in the Advanced unit (as you might expect), however the process also ensures
there are HDs and Ds awarded in the other units of study to students who excel.

Grades:

High Distinction (HD)

At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject and comprehensive knowledge and
understanding of the unit material. A High Distinction reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a
student who demonstrates the ability to apply subject knowledge to novel situations.

Distinction (DI)
At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a solid knowledge and understanding of
the unit material. A Distinction reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who
demonstrates an ability to apply the key ideas of the subject.

Credit (CR)
At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A Credit
reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad understanding of the unit material
but has not fully developed the ability to apply the key ideas of the subject.

Pass (PS)
At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A Pass reflects satisfactory
achievement and is awarded to a student who has threshold knowledge of the subject.
Assessed exercises may not be revised and resubmitted for re-marking.

8 Academic Integrity
While the University is aware that the vast majority of students and staff act ethically and
honestly, it is opposed to and will not tolerate academic dishonesty or plagiarism and will
treat all allegations of dishonesty seriously.

All students are expected to be familiar and act in compliance with the relevant University
policies, procedures and codes, which include:
Academic Honesty in Coursework Policy 2015
Academic Honesty Procedures 2016
Code of Conduct for Students
Research Code of Conduct 2013 (for honours and postgraduate dissertation units)
They can be accessed via the University's Policy Register: http://sydney.edu.au/policies
(enter 'Academic Honesty' in the search field).

Students should never use document-sharing sites and should be extremely wary of using
online 'tutor' services. Further information on academic honesty and the resources
available to all students can be found on the Academic Integrity page of the University
website: http://sydney.edu.au/elearning/student/EI/index.shtml.

8.1 Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism

Academic dishonesty involves seeking unfair academic advantage or helping another

student to do so.

You may be found to have engaged in academic dishonesty if you:

Resubmit (or 'recycle') work that you have already submitted for assessment in the
same unit or in a different unit or previous attempt.
Use assessment answers hosted on the internet, including those uploaded to
document sharing websites by other students.
Have someone else complete part or all of an assessment for you, or do this for
another student.
Except for legitimate group work purposes, providing assessment questions and
answers to other students directly or through social media platforms or document
('notes') sharing websites, including essays and written reports.
Engage in examination misconduct, including using cheat notes or unapproved
electronic devices (e.g., smartphones), copying from other students, discussing an
exam with another person while it is in progress, or removing confidential
examination papers from the examination venue.
Engage in dishonest plagiarism.
Plagiarism means presenting another person's work as if it is your own without properly or
adequately referencing the original source of the work.

Plagiarism is using someone else's ideas, words, formulas, methods, evidence,

programming code, images, artworks, or musical creations without proper
acknowledgement. If you use someone's actual words you must use quotation marks as
well as an appropriate reference. If you use someone's ideas, formulas, methods, evidence,
tables or images you must use a reference. You must not present someone's artistic work,
musical creation, programming code or any other form of intellectual property as your
own. If referring to any of these, you must always present them as the work of their creator
and reference in an appropriate way.

Plagiarism is always unacceptable, regardless of whether it is done intentionally or not. It

is considered dishonest if done knowingly, with intent to deceive, or if a reasonable person
can see that the assessment contains important material copied from other sources and not
properly referenced. The University understands that not all plagiarism is dishonest
and provides students with opportunities to improve their academic writing, including
their understanding of scholarly citation and referencing practices.

8.2 Use of Similarity Detection Software

All written assessments submitted in this unit of study will be submitted to the similarity
detecting software program known as Turnitin. Turnitin searches for matches between
text in your written assessment task and text sourced from the Internet, published works
and assessments that have previously been submitted to Turnitin for analysis.

There will always be some degree of text-matching when using Turnitin. Text-matching
may occur in use of direct quotations, technical terms and phrases, or the listing of
bibliographic material. This does not mean you will automatically be accused of academic
dishonesty or plagiarism, although Turnitin reports may be used as evidence in academic
dishonesty and plagiarism decision-making processes.

9 Learning and Teaching Policies

EQUITY, ACCESS AND DIVERSITY STATEMENT
The School of Physics is strongly committed to providing equity of access and opportunity
to all students, and to make our environment supportive for everyone. The School has three
Equity Officers who act as a point of contact for students who may have a query or
concern about any issues relating to equity, access and diversity. If you feel you have not
been treated fairly, discriminated against or disadvantaged in any way, you are encouraged
to talk to one of the Equity Officers or any member of the Physics staff. More information
can be found at http://sydney.edu.au/science/physics/about/equity.shtml
Any student who feels she/he may need an accommodation based on the impact of a
disability should contact Disability Services
http://sydney.edu.au/current_students/disability/ who can help arrange support.
CONSIDERATION OF FACTORS AFFECTING YOUR STUDY
While studying at the University of Sydney, a student may need to apply for special
consideration or special arrangements as follows:

Special Consideration may be granted where well-documented illness, injury or

misadventure occurs to the student (or someone the student has carers responsibility for)
during semester or the exam period.
Longer term health or emotional issues are best managed with adjustments to course
assessments as part of an Academic Plan developed in discussion between the student and
Disabilities Services
Special Arrangements may be granted for certain personal circumstances - for example
the birth of a child, or religious or cultural commitments - or for essential community
commitments - for example compulsory legal absence (e.g. Jury duty), elite sporting or
cultural commitments (representing the University, state or country), or Australian
Defence Force or Emergency Service commitments (e.g. Army Reserve).

ALL requests for an extension of time on an assessment must be made by applying

for Special Consideration or Special Arrangements as outlined above.

Further information on eligibility, document requirements and how to apply is available at

http://sydney.edu.au/science/cstudent/ug/forms.shtml#special_consideration. Applications
must be made using the Universitys formal online application process no later than three
(3) working days after the assessment occurrence or due date (unless a reasonable
explanation for a delay is provided).

You should not submit an application of either type if

there is no assessment associated with a missed class, or
you have a reasonable opportunity to make up any work you missed.
Students unsure what type of Consideration is appropriate, or unhappy with a
Consideration decision, should consult the Student Centre.
For full details of applicable university policies and procedures, see the web site at
sydney.edu.au/policy.
Replacement assessments for end of semester examinations
Students who apply for and are granted either special arrangements or special
consideration for end of semester examinations in units offered by the Faculty of Science
will be expected to sit any replacement assessments in the replacement exam period (week
18).
Student Appeals
Students have the right to appeal any academic decision made by a school or the faculty.
The appeal must follow the appropriate procedure so that a fair hearing is obtained. The
formal application form can be obtained at:
https://sydney.edu.au/science/cstudent/ug/forms.shtml#appeals
Other University Policies
University Policies most relevant to an undergraduate coursework student are:
Learning and Teaching Policy
Coursework Policy
Assessment Procedures
Academic Honesty in Coursework
Student Appeals against Academic Decisions
For full details of these and other university policies and procedures, see the University
Policy Register web site at sydney.edu.au/policy.
Relevant forms and procedures are also available on the Faculty website at
https://sydney.edu.au/science/cstudent/ug/forms.shtml