As part of the "General Physics" course, using historical and experimental approaches, the course intends to introduce the students to the theories of the electronic structure of atoms, and of the electronic - vibrational and rotational properties of diatomic molecules. The course rests on numerous concepts and demonstrations of Quantum Mechanics.
Acquire a very good understanding of the basic physical concepts underlying atomic and molecular physics.
Atomic physics
- hydrogen atom & hydrogenoids/ gross electronic structure - atoms with many electrons / electronic fine structure * Stern & Gerlach experiment / spin / Pauli principle * central field approximation / 'aufbau principle' * L-S and J-J couplings / Zeeman and Stark effects - hyperfine structure
Molecular physics (diatomic molecules)
- electronic structure (LCAO & Valence Bond) - rotational and vibrational structure and coupling thereof
Atomic Physics
1 Instroduction
2 Atom with one electron
3 Stern-Gerlach's experience
4 Fine structure
5 Atom in an external magnetic field
6 Atom in an external electric field
7 Hyperfine structure
Molecular Physics
1 Rotational spectroscopy
2 Vibrational spectroscopy
3 Electronic spectroscopy
Exercices are proposed in order to better grasp concepts and orders of magnitude; they cover the different parts of the course.
The course is taught using PowerPoint presentations and blackboard presentations, or videos in the case of distance learning. However, students are not permitted to make any video or audio recordings of the course. The formal course is supplemented by tutorials, where students have the opportunity to work with formulas and orders of magnitude.
The exam covering the theoretical course is oral. Students are given two questions covering the two parts of the course: atomic physics and molecular physics. Students prepare their answers (approximately 30 minutes) and then present their answers orally. The assessment focuses on the rigor of reasoning, understanding of the physical meaning of the results, and presentation of the results (graphs, numerical results, etc.).
The part relating to exercises (tutorials) will take the form of a written exam in which exercises must be solved. The grade will take into account the physical approach, reasoning, and clarity of the presentation.
In addition to the course syllabus (in French!), which is available free of charge on WebCampus and sold in paper format at the reprographics service, interested students may wish to read the following works:
| Training | Study programme | Block | Credits | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor in Physics | Standard | 0 | 4 | |
| Bachelor in Physics | Standard | 3 | 4 |