SCI199Y1
First Year Seminar 52S
Undergraduate seminar that focuses on specific ideas, questions, phenomena or controversies, taught by a regular Faculty
member deeply engaged in the discipline. Open only to newly admitted first year students. It may serve as a distribution
requirement course; see page 40.
PHY100H1
The Magic of Physics 26L, 13T
In 1915 Einstein presented a quartet of papers that revolutionized our understanding of gravity. He commented: "Hardly
anyone who has truly understood this theory will be able to resist being captivated by its magic." The General Theory of
Relativity is not the only theory of physics that is magical, and Einstein was not physics' only magician. We uncover the
wonders of the classical and the quantum world courtesy of Galileo, Newton, Maxwell, Einstein, Heisenberg and others. Topics
include planetary motion, chaos, the nature of light, time travel, black holes, matter waves, Schr”dinger's cat, and quarks. No
mathematics is required, and any necessary elementary classical physics is reviewed.
Exclusion: May not be taken in conjunction with any other PHY 100-series
course.
PHY100H1 is primarily intended as a Science Distribution Requirement
course for students in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
Note
First Year Laboratory
Taken by all students enrolled in PHY110Y1 and PHY138Y1. An introductory course in experimentation, starting with selected
experiments, which each student is obliged to complete, but from there on, offering choices. Emphasis is on the general
principles of experimentation: planning, use of instruments, error estimation, data analysis and comparison with theory, the
keeping of complete records, and genuine exploratory work. Laboratories are given in alternate weeks; students taking
Physics, Chemistry or Biology laboratories may schedule these on the same afternoon of alternate weeks.
PHY110Y1
Basic Physics 78L, 39P, 26T
Designed for students who do not intend to take more than one course in Physics, but who wish to acquire a working
knowledge of basic physics needed in other areas of science. The course is offered at a level similar to Grade 12 or old OAC
Physics. Students in other disciplines who wish some exposure to the methods and excitement of modern physics should
consider either PHY100H1, PHY201H1, or PHY205H1. (See "NOTE" after PHY100H1 giving description of laboratory.)
Reference: Cutnell and Johnson, Physics 5th edition (Wiley)
Exclusion: Senior (e.g. SPHOA or SPH4U) high school Physics or equivalent, PHY100H1/PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1.
Note: Students will be
required to withdraw from PHY110Y1 at any time if they are found to have senior high school Physics (see"Exclusions" on
Page 29).
Prerequisite: OAC or new Grade 12 "4U" Mathematics (Some calculus recommended or MAT135Y1/MAT137Y1/MAT157Y1
Co-requisite: Students intending to take any higher level Physics course are expected to take at least MAT135Y1.
PHY110Y1 can be taken as a Science course for Distribution Requirement
purposes
PHY138Y1
Physics for the Life Sciences I 52L, 39P, 26T
This course is recommended strongly for students following a life science program. This course introduces topics in physics
relevant for life sciences. Mechanics; torque and statics; work, power and energy; viscous forces; vibrations and waves; sound;
optics; electric and magnetic forces and fields; dielectric and conductors; nuclear medicine; dose from radiation; nuclear
physics. (See "NOTE" after PHY100H1 giving description of laboratory.)
Reference: Serway and Jewett, Principles of Physics 3rd edition (Brooks/Cole) + Notes
Exclusion:PHY100H1/PHY110Y1/PHY140Y1
Prerequisite: (OAC Calculus or MCB4U Functions & Calculus) and (OAC or SPH4U Physics)
Co-requisite: MAT135Y1/MAT137Y1/MAT157Y1
PHY140Y1
Foundations of Physics 78L, 39P, 26T
The first physics course in many of the Specialist and Major Programs in Physical Sciences. It provides an introduction to the
concepts, approaches and tools the physicist uses to describe the physical world while laying the foundation for classical and
modern mechanics. Topics include: the motion of single particles and rigid, extended bodies (Newtonian Mechanics); the
concepts of force, work, and energy; simple harmonic motion; planetary motion, gravitation; black holes; special relativity; an
introduction to elementary particle physics; electrostatics; the breakdown of Newtonian mechanics in the microscopic world;
atomic and nuclear physics; an introduction to Quantum Mechanics, wave-particle duality and the uncertainty principle.
Students take the Physics Specialist Laboratory in alternating weeks. The first component consists of dynamics and mechanics
experiments in our computer based laboratory. The second component consists of a free choice experiments chosen from a
list of basic experimental techniques, standard and classic experiments.
Reference: Knight, Physics for Scientists and Engineers 1st edition (Pearson)
Exclusion: PHY100H1/PHY110Y1/PHY138Y1
Prerequisite: (OAC Calculus or MCB4U Functions & Calculus) and (OAC or SPH4U Physics)
Co-requisite: MAT137Y1/MAT157Y1, (MAT223H1/MAT240H1 recommended)
Note
Exceptional first year students, for example those who have scored very high on the Canadian Association of Physics High
School Exam, may be allowed direct enrollment in Physics Second Year Courses. Contact the Physics Undergraduate Office.
200-SERIES COURSES
Note
All 200-series PHY courses  except
PHY201H1 and PHY205H1 require a 100-series MAT prerequisite. See co-requisite entries
under 100-series PHY courses
above.
PHY201H1
Concepts of Physics 26L, 13T
A conceptual overview of some the most interesting advances in physics and the intellectual background in which they
occurred. The interrelationship of the actual practice of physics and its cultural and intellectual context is emphasized.
PHY201H1 is primarily intended as a Science Distribution Requirement course
for students in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
PHY205H1
The Physics of Everyday Life 26L, 13T
An introduction to the physics of everyday life. This conceptual course looks at everyday objects to learn about the basis for
our modern technological world. Topics may include anything from automobiles to weather.
PHY205H1 is primarily intended as a Science Distribution Requirement course
for students in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
PHY225H1
Fundamental Physics Laboratory 26L, 78P
The 2nd year Physics Laboratory. Topics including experimental techniques, instrumentation, and data analysis are introduced
through experiments, complementary lectures, and library research of some of the great experiments of physics.
Prerequisite: PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
Co-requisite: PHY238Y1/PHY251H1/PHY252H1/PHY255H1/PHY256H1
ENV235Y1
Physics and Chemistry of Planet Earth 52L
See "Division of the Environment"
The formation and evolution of Earth as a planet in the Solar System: origin of the elements, composition of planets, mantle-
core differentiation, tectonics, geologic change and time scales. The biosphere: i.e., the Earth's atmosphere, oceans and crust:
operation as a physicochemical system, atmospheric composition and roles of major and minor constituents,
ocean/atmosphere energy budgets, circulations and couplings; climate, glaciation. The effects of human intervention and
natural processes: e.g., groundwater quality, atmospheric change, volcanic activity. Given by the Departments of Physics and
Chemistry.
Prerequisite: (CHM138H1, CHM139H1)/CHM151Y1; MAT135Y1/MAT137Y1/MAT157Y1/JMB170Y1; PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
PHY238Y1
Physics for the Life Sciences II 78L, 26T
Electromagnetism; biological effects of radiation; physical optics; macroscopic phenomena; heat engines and metabolism.
Examples are taken, where applicable, from the life sciences.
Exclusion: PHY251H1
Prerequisite: (PHY110Y1, MAT135Y1)/PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
Recommended preparation: BIO150Y1/a CHM100-series course
Co-requisite: None, but students taking any higher level Physics course are expected to have at least MAT235Y1
PHY251H1
Electricity and Magnetism 26L, 13T
Point charges; Coulomb's Law; electrostatic field and potential; Gauss' Law; conductors; electrostatic energy;
magnetostatistics; Ampere's Law; magnetostatic energy; Lorentz Force; Faraday's Law; dielectric and magnetic materials;
Maxwell's equations.
Exclusion: PHY238Y1
Prerequisite: PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
Co-requisite: MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1/MAT257Y1
PHY252H1
Thermal Physics 26L, 13T
The quantum statistical basis of macroscopic systems; definition of entropy in terms of the number of accessible states of a
many particle system leading to simple expressions for absolute temperature, the canonical distribution, and the laws of
thermodynamics. Specific effects of quantum statistics at high densities and low temperatures.
Reference: Kittel and Kroemer, Thermal Physics
Prerequisite: PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
Co-requisite: MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1/MAT257Y1
PHY255H1
Oscillations and Waves 26L, 13T
Complex notation; free, damped and forced harmonic oscillations; resonance; AC circuits; coupled oscillators; normal modes;
travelling waves; simple harmonic wave; wave equation; wave impedance; transverse and longitudinal waves; flow of energy in
waves; reflection and transmission at interfaces; group and phase velocity; Fourier series and Fourier transforms.
Prerequisite: PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
Co-requisite: MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1/MAT257Y1 (MAT244H1 recommended)
PHY256H1
Introduction to Quantum Physics 39L, 13T
Failures of classical physics; the Quantum revolution; Stern-Gerlach effect; harmonic oscillator; uncertainty principle;
interference packets; scattering and tunnelling in one-dimension.
Prerequisite: PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
Co-requisite: MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1/MAT257Y1 (MAT223H1/MAT240H1 recommended)
PHY299Y1
Research Opportunity Program
Credit course for supervised participation in faculty research project. See page 43 for details.
300-SERIES COURSES
Note
Students taking 300-series courses are invited to attend the Thursday afternoon
Department colloquia.
JBO302Y1
Human Physiology and Biophysics 78L, 14T
Principles of Human Physiology with tutorials on the biophysical concepts applied to physiological processes. Restricted to
students enrolled in the Biophysics and Physiology (Theoretical) programs.
Exclusion: PSL201Y1, PSL302Y1
Prerequisite: BIO150Y1; CHM138H1; MAT135Y1/MAT137Y1; PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1
JPA305H1
Introduction to Archaeometry 26L, 13P
Introduction to methods for remote sensing of buried archaeological remains, (magnetics, resistivity, electromagnetics), dating
(Carbon 14, TL, ESR, etc.) and analysis (X-Ray, INAA) of ancient materials. Application of methods and interpretation of
results in archaeological contexts. Issues of art and authenticity are also addressed. Course includes a laboratory component.
(Not offered every year) (Given by the Departments of Physics and Anthropology)
Reference: Aitken, Physics and Archaeology; Tite, Methods of Physical Examination in Archaeology; Fleming, Dating in
Archaeology
JPA310H1
Physics and Archaeometry 26L, 13P
Introduction to the principles behind archaeometric methods for remote sensing, dating, and analysis of archaeological
materials, and interpretation of results. Course includes both field and in-house laboratory components. Offered in conjunction
with JPA305H1. (Not offered every year) (Given by the Departments of Physics and Anthropology)
Prerequisite: Any 1st-year Physics course or permission of instructor
Co-requisite: JPA305H1
PHY305H1
Electronics Lab I 26L, 39P
The laboratory functions as an integrated lecture course/laboratory program. Passive linear circuits: theorems, networks, and
equivalents; meters, transient and steady responses, power, transformers, transmission lines. Digital devices: gates logic,
Boolean algebra, minimization, flip-flops, counters, delays. Op-amps: dependent sources, amplifiers, integrators, feedback,
slew rate, filters. Diodes: peak detector, rectification, regulators. Noise: sources, grounding, shielding, ground loops.
Transistors: characteristics, analysis, amplifier design.
Prerequisite: PHY225H1, PHY251H1, PHY255H1
Note
Computational Laboratory: Students may select one or more modules from PHY307H1/PHY308H1/PHY309H1 below. The laboratory
functions as an integrated lecture course/laboratory program. Students taking a second module can receive a 4th year credit
(see listings for PHY407H1/PHY408H1/PHY409H1).
PHY307H1
Introduction to Computational Physics 13L, 39P
Problem solving with computers, using both algebraic and numerical methods. After a brief introduction to the basic
techniques, various physics problems are treated with increasingly more sophisticated techniques. Examples include the
physical pendulum, heat equation, quantum mechanics, Monte Carlo simulation, differential equation, and graphical
presentation of results.
Exclusion: PHY407H1
Co-requisite: Any third-year lecture course in Physics
PHY308H1
Times Series Analysis 13L, 26P
The analysis of digital sequences; filters; the Fourier Transform; windows; truncation effects; aliasing; auto and cross-
correlation; stochastic processes, power spectra; least squares filtering; application to real data series and experimental
design.
Exclusion: PHY408H1
Co-requisite: Any third-year lecture course in Physics
PHY309H1
Quantum Methods Using Computer Algebra 26L, 26P
Classic quantum mechanics problems are explored using Maple computer algebra and graphics. These include bound state
and scattering problems in 1D, angular momentum and spin, commutator algebra, scattering in 3D and time dependent
processes. General techniques for computer-aided problem solving are developed.
Exclusion: PHY409H1
Co-requisite: Any third-year lecture course in Physics
PHY315H1
Radiation in Planetary Atmospheres 26L
The role of radiation in the generation, maintenance and evolution of planetary atmospheres and climate: Radiation laws,
absorption and emission. Simple radiative exchange processes and atmospheric models. Energy balance. Radiation and
climatic change. Comparative radiation studies in planetary atmospheres. Pollution and man-made effects.
Prerequisite: PHY238Y1/PHY251H1; MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1
PHY326H1
Advanced Physics Laboratory 150P
Experiments in this course are designed to form a bridge to current experimental research. A wide range of exciting
experiments relevant to modern research in physics is available. The laboratory is open from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Prerequisite: PHY225H1, PHY251H1, PHY256H1
PHY341H1
Physical Science in Contemporary Society 26L
Complex nature of the scientific method; inter-connection between theory, concepts and experimental data; characteristics of
premature, pathological and pseudo-science; public perception and misperception of the scientific method; the supposed end
of the Golden Era of Science; the insufficiency of reductionism; trends in modern science. (Offered in alternate years with PHY
342H1)
Prerequisite: must be registered in Early Teacher Project or Physics program
PHY342H1
Current Questions in Mathematics and Science 26L
Topics of current prominence in the physical sciences and mathematics are discussed. Topics change each year as the
sciences evolve. Appropriate topics might include: high-temperature superconductivity, cosmology, chaos and non-linear
dynamics. (Offered in alternate years with PHY341H1)
Prerequisite: must be registered in Early Teacher Project or Physics program
PHY346H1
Intermediate Biophysics 26L, 13T
Linear systems analysis; transport in biological systems; control of the oculomotor system; electrical properties of nerves and
membrane. Introduction to chaos in biological systems.
Prerequisite: MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1/MAT257Y1; PHY238Y1/PHY251H1
PHY351H1
Classical Mechanics 26L, 13T
Symmetry and conservation laws, stability and instability, generalized co-ordinates, Hamilton's principle, Hamilton's equations,
phase space, Liouville's theorem, canonical transformations, Poisson brackets, Noether's theorem.
Prerequisite: MAT244H1/MAT267H1; PHY255H1
PHY352H1
Electromagnetic Theory 26L, 13T
Review of vector & tensor calculus, transformation properties of vectors & tensors, electrostatics, basic formulae of
magnetostatics, electrodynamics (Maxwell's Equations), gauge transformations of scalar & vector potentials, retarded
potentials, Li‚nard-Wiechert potentials, radiation, special theory of relativity, relativistic mechanics and relativistic
electrodynamics.
Prerequisite: MAT223H1/MAT240H1/MAT244H1; PHY251H1, PHY255H1
PHY353H1
Electromagnetic Waves 26L, 13T
Review of Maxwell's equations; electric fields in matter; magnetic fields in matter; electromotive force; electromagnetic
induction; electromagnetic waves in vacuum; waves in dielectric and conductive materials, skin effect; waves in dispersive
media: polarization phenomena; Fresnel equations; reflection and refraction from an interface; Brewster angle, total internal
reflection; interference, coherence effects; interferometers; Fraunhofer and Fresnel diffraction; waveguides, optical fibres,
radiation.
Prerequisite: PHY352H1
PHY355H1
Quantum Mechanics I 26L, 13T
The general structure of wave mechanics; eigenfunctions and eigenvalues; operators; orbital angular momentum; spherical
harmonics; central potential; separation of variables; hydrogen atom; Dirac notation; operator methods; harmonic oscillator and
spin.
Exclusion: CHM326H1
Prerequisite: MAT223H1/MAT240H1/MAT244H1; PHY251H1, PHY256H1/CHM225Y1/229H1
PHY357H1
Nuclear and Particle Physics 26L, 13T
The subatomic particles; nuclei, baryons and mesons, quarks, leptons and bosons; the structure of nuclei and hadronic matter;
symmetries and conservation laws; fundamental forces and interactions, electromagnetic, weak, and strong; a selection of
other topics, CP violation, nuclear models, standard model, proton decay, supergravity, nuclear and particle astrophysics. This
course is not a Prerequisite for any PHY 400-level course.
Prerequisite: PHY355H1
PHY358H1
Atoms, Molecules and Solids 26L, 13T
Quantum theory of atoms, molecules, and solids; variational principle and perturbation theory; hydrogen and helium atoms;
exchange and correlation energies; multielectron atoms; simple molecules; bonding and antibonding orbitals; rotation and
vibration of molecules; crystal binding; electron in a periodic potential; reciprocal lattice; Bloch's theorem; nearly-free electron
model; Kronig-Penney model; energy bands; metals, semiconductors, and insulators; Fermi surfaces. This course is not a
Prerequisite for any PHY 400-level course.
Prerequisite: PHY355H1
PHY359H1
Physics of the Earth 26L, 13T
Designed for students interested in the physics of the Earth and the planets. Study of the Earth as a unified dynamic system;
determination of major internal divisions in the planet; development and evolution of the Earth's large scale surface features
through plate tectonics; the age and thermal history of the planet; Earth's gravitational field and the concept of isostasy; mantle
rheology and convection; Earth tides; geodetic measurement techniques, in particular modern space-based techniques.
Prerequisite: PHY140Y1/PHY255H1, MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1, MAT244 (Or permission of instructor)
PHY371Y1/372H1
Supervised Reading in Physics TBA
An individual study program chosen by the student with the advice of, and under the direction of, a staff member. A student
may take advantage of this course either to specialize further in a field of interest or to explore interdisciplinary fields not
available in the regular syllabus.
Prerequisite: Permission of Department
PHY398H0/399Y0
Independent Experiential Study Project
An instructor-supervised group project in an off-campus setting. See page 43 for details.
400-SERIES COURSES
Note
A program including one or more of PHY 470-472, PHY 478-479, or PHY 480-499
must be endorsed by the Department.
Students taking 400-series courses are invited to attend Thursday afternoon
Department colloquia.
JPA400Y1
Advanced Physics and Archaeology 156P
An introduction to research in archaeometry and archaeological prospecting. Possible projects: magnetic and resistivity
surveying of archaeological sites; thermoluminescence measurements; neutron activation analysis and x-ray fluorescence
analysis of artifacts; radiocarbon dating by atom counting; lead isotope analysis. (Offered only occasionally by the Departments
of Physics and Anthropology)
Prerequisite: JPA310H1
PHY406H1
Computer and Interface Systems Lab 26L, 39P
The course functions as an integrated lecture/laboratory program. How best to use computers in the lab to improve
experiments. Lectures include basic and practical case studies: computer as controller and data collector; programming and
interface methodologies; the principles of analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion; data analysis; signal processing
techniques. Labview is used extensively. (Offered only occasionally).
Prerequisite: PHY225H1, PHY251H1, PHY255H1
Recommended preparation: PHY305H1
PHY407H1
Introduction to Computational Physics 13L, 39P
For course description see PHY307H1.
Exclusion: PHY307H1
Prerequisite: PHY308H1/PHY309H1
PHY408H1
Times Series Analysis 13L, 26P
For course description see PHY308H1.
Exclusion: PHY308H1
Prerequisite: PHY307H1/PHY309H1
PHY409H1
Quantum Methods Using Computer Algebra 26L,
26P
For course description see PHY309H1.
Exclusion: PHY309H1
Prerequisite: PHY307H1/PHY308H1
PHY426H1
Advanced Physics Laboratory II 150P
Prerequisite: PHY326H1
PHY428H1
Advanced Physics Laboratory III 150P
Prerequisite: PHY426H1/325Y1
PHY429H1
Advanced Physics Laboratory IV 150P
Experiments in these advanced laboratory courses are designed to form a bridge to current experimental research. A wide
range of experiments relevant to modern research in physics is available. Thse lcourses are a continuation of PHY326, but
students have more freedom to progressively focus on specific areas of physics or to do extended experiments or projects. The
lab is open from 9:00am. - 5:00pm, Monday to Friday.
Prerequisite: PHY428H1
JGP438H1
Shallow Crust Geophysics 26L, 52P
An introduction to the geophysical exploration of the subsurface. Topics covered include gravity, seismic, magnetic, electrical
and electromagnetic surveying and their application in prospecting, hydrogeology, and environmental assessments. This
course is intended primarily for geological engineering and geology students.
Exclusion: PHY496H1
Prerequisite: GLG306H1; MAT223H1/MAT235Y1; PHY138Y1/PHY140Y1 or permission of instructor
PHY445H1
Medical Imaging 26L, 20P, 13T
The mathematical, physical and engineering basis for medical imaging is introduced by combining the mathematical
description of linear systems with the physics of imaging systems utilizing x-rays, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance
techniques. The combination of mathematics and physics that has lead to the development of modern medical imaging
systems is emphasized. Data for problem sets and labs will be processed using MATLAB software. Students not in a physics
specialist program should consult the lecturer about the recommended background
See Course Website at http://www.ecf.utoronto.ca/apsc/courses/bme595f for textbook and references
Prerequisite: MAT244H1/APM346H1; MAT235Y1/MAT237Y1; PHY238Y1/PHY251H1
Recommended preparation: PHY307H1/PHY308H1
PHY457H1
Quantum Mechanics II 26L, 13T
Quantum dynamics in Heisenberg and Schr”dinger Pictures; WKB approximation; Variational Method; Time-Independent
Perturbation Theory; Spin; Addition of Angular Momentum; Time-Dependent Perturbation Theory; Scattering.
Prerequisite: PHY355H1
PHY459H1
Macroscopic Physics 26L, 13T
The three laws of thermodynamics; the inexorable increase of entropy, phases and phase transitions. Fluid mechanics, the
Navier-Stokes equations; dynamical similarity, rotating flows, vorticity, waves, instabilities and turbulence.
Prerequisite: PHY252H1, PHY351H1
PHY460H1
Nonlinear Physics 26L
Nonlinear oscillator; nonlinear differential equations and fixed point analysis; stability and bifurcation; Fourier spectrum;
Poincare sections; attractors and aperiodic attractors; KAM theorem; logistic maps and chaos; characterization of chaotic
attractors; Benard-Rayleigh convection; Lorenz system.
Prerequisite: PHY351H1
PHY471Y1/472H1
Supervised Reading in Physics TBA
These self-study courses are similar to PHY371Y1/372H1, at a higher level.
Prerequisite: Permission of Department
PHY478H1/479Y1
Undergraduate Research Project TBA
An introduction to research in Physics. For further information contact the Associate Chair, Undergraduate Studies.
Prerequisite: Permission of Department
FOURTH-YEAR OPTIONAL ADVANCED PHYSICS COURSES
Note
The Department of Physics offers senior undergraduate students a set of specialized
optional courses. NONE of these
courses are required to complete a Specialist Program in Physics but taking
several of these courses is recommended strongly
to students wishing to pursue graduate studies.
Note
Most Advanced Courses are offered every year, but some are not. Please check
the Physics Department website for current
offerings. It is the student's responsibility to ensure they have adequate
preparation for any of the Advanced courses. Please
contact the course instructor or the Associate Chair, Undergraduate Studies
for more information.
PHY480H1
Basic Statistical Mechanics 26L
Classical and quantum statistical mechanics of noninteracting systems; the statistical basis of thermodynamics; ensembles,
partition function; thermodynamic equilibrium; stability and fluctuations; formulation of quantum statistics; theory of simple
gases; ideal Bose and Fermi systems.
PHY482H1
Symmetries in Physics 26L
Topics include: the origin and implications of symmetry in physics; the basic language of group theory; discrete groups and
matrix groups; groups of physical transformations; the representation of groups; tensor operators and the Wigner-Eckart
theorem; Lie groups. Applications to some of the following: crystal symmetries; electronic bands in crystals; vibrations of
molecules; SU(2) and SU(3) in particle and nuclear physics.
PHY483H1
Relativity Theory I 26L
Basis to Einstein's theory: differential geometry, tensor analysis, gravitational physics leading to General Relativity. Theory
starting from solutions of Schwarzschild, Kerr, etc.
PHY484H1
Relativity Theory II 26L
Applications of General Relativity to Astrophysics and Cosmology. Introduction to black holes, large-scale structure of the
universe.
PHY485H1
Modern Optics 26L
Basic optics, diffraction theory, Gaussian beams, laser resonators, semiclassical laser theory and ultrafast pulse generation.
Selected reviews from the range of modern areas of research, e.g. laser cooling, photonic bandgap stru ctures, extreme optics,
quantum information, and other topics.
Prerequisite: PHY353H1, PHY355H1
PHY487H1
Condensed Matter Physics 26L
Introduction to the concepts used in the modern treatment of solids. The student is assumed to be familiar with elementary
quantum mechanics. Topics include: crystal structure, the reciprocal lattice, crystal binding, the free electron model, electrons
in periodic potential, lattice vibrations, electrons and holes, semiconductors, metals.
PHY488H1
Introduction to Particle Theory 26L
Introduction to quantum field theory and elementary particle physics. Topics include: canonical quantization, symmetries and
conservation laws, S-matrix expansion, Feynman diagrams, Dirac equation, gauge invariance, quantum electrodynamics and,
if time permits, an introduction to nonabelian gauge theories and weak interactions.
PHY489H1
Introduction to High Energy Physics 26L
This course surveys the experimental basis and theoretical framework of the "Standard Model" of Particle Physics and its
possible extensions. Topics include the standard electroweak model, scattering and parton distributions, strong interactions
and quantum chromodynamics.
PHY491H1
Current Interpretations of Quantum Mechanics 26L, 13T
Review of conventional, textbook quantum mechanics. Formal measurement theory and wave function collapse; quantum
states and nonseparability, violation of local causality, Bell theorems, "quantum tricks", decoherence and the emergence of
classical behaviour. Hidden variables, deBroglie-Bohm theory and generalizations, many-worlds interpretation and other
theories of "beables". Consistent histories approach of Omnes and Gell-Mann and Hartle; nature of "True" and "Reliable"
statements.
Prerequisite: PHY457H1
PHY493H1
Geophysical Imaging I 26L
This course covers wavefield and ray approximation methods for imaging the interior of the Earth (including hydrocarbon
reservoirs and mineral deposits) using seismology.
PHY494H1
Geophysical Imaging II 26L
How to investigate Earth structure at depths ranging from metres to tens of kilometres using gravity, magnetic, electrical,
electromagnetic and nuclear geophysical methods. Current methodologies and the theoretical basis for them are presented.
PHY495H1
Experimental Global Geophysics 26L
This course deals with the numerical analysis of data associated with space geodesy, earthquake seismology, geomagnetism
and palaeomagnetism, isotope geochronology, as well as numerical simulations of a wide variety of geodynamic processes
(e.g. mantle convection, post-glacial rebound, Earth tides).
Co-requisite: PHY359H1
PHY496H1
Experimental Applied Geophysics 39P
A laboratory course (with introductory lectures) dealing with physical methods for exploring Earth structure; i.e., seismic,
gravity, magnetic, electrical, electromagnetic, and nuclear methods. It is designed to give "hands on" experience with the
techniques of geophysical data analysis as well as data acquisition.
Exclusion: JGP438H1
Co-requisite: PHY493H1/PHY494H1
PHY497H1
Introduction to Atmosphere-Ocean Dynamics 26L
Topics include: the equations of classical hydrodynamics: conservation of mass, momentum, and energy; Bernoulli's theorem;
Ertel's theorem; nondimensional analysis, dynamics of stratified flow: static stability; convection; shear flow instability and the
Miles-Howard theorem; internal gravity waves; gravity wave drag and Eliassen-Palm theorem; introduction to dynamics of
rotating, stratified flow and baroclinic instability.
PHY498H1
Atmospheric Physics - Clouds 26L
Topics include: thermodynamics of water substances in the atmosphere; nucleation of liquid water in water vapour and
condensation nuclei; nucleation of the ice phase and ice nuclei; growth of cloud droplets and ice particles; initiation of
precipitation particles; precipitation processes; role of clouds in atmospheric circulations; effects of latent heat release in PV
distribution; concept of CISK; examples of CISK driven systems.
PHY499H1
Earth Observations from Space 26L
Introduction to satellite observations; satellite orbits; scanning geometries; blackbody radiation; radiative transfer; ultraviolet,
visible, infrared, and microwave techniques; active vs. passive remote sounding techniques; imaging, non-imaging, and
sounding instruments; the inverse problem; nadir vs. limb sounding; remote sounding of atmospheric temperature,
composition, aerosols, clouds, precipitation, and wings; remote sensing of the Earth's surface; discussion of selected satellite
missions.
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