Overall objectives:

1 - Understanding of the concepts and basic principles of the description of matter at the atomic and subatomic level.
2 - Understanding the inadequacy of classical physics concepts in the interpretation of some experimental results and the need for a new physics formulation.
3 - Application of acquired knowledge in solving simple exercises.
4 - Application of acquired knowledge in carrying out laboratory work of an experimental and computational nature.

Syllabus:

1 - 1. Introduction to Special Relativity. Lorentz transformation and Velocity transformation. Consequences of the Lorentz Transformation: length contraction and time dilation. Linear Momentum and Energy.
2 - Electrons, photons, and atoms. The atomic nature of matter. Cathode rays and the Thomson measurement of the e/m ratio. Milikan and the charge of the electron. Black body radiation. Planck and the concept of energy quantum. The photoelectric effect. Einstein and the concept of the photon. X-rays and the Compton effect. Rutherford and the nuclear model of the atom. Atomic spectra and the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom. The Franck and Hertz Experience. De Broglie's hypothesis and the genesis of wave mechanics.
3 - Quantum Physics. Waves and particles, wave packets. Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. The Schrödinger equation. Temporal variation of expected values. Time-independent Schrödinger equation and eigenfunctions of energy. The well of infinite and finite potential. Potential barrier and tunnel effect.
4 - Elements of atomic nucleus physics. Core constitution. Nuclear forces. Some core properties: mass, size, and density. Nuclear binding energy. Nuclear stability. Nuclear reactions. Q value of a nuclear reaction. Radioactivity. The disintegration of naturally radioactive nuclides. Alpha, beta minus, beta plus decay, and electron capture. Law of radioactive decay. The activity of a radioactive substance. Radioactive series. Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.

Literature/Sources:

R. A. Serway and J. W. Jewett , 2013 , Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics (9th ed.) , Saunders College Pub.
P. A. Tipler and R. Llewellyn , 2008 , Modern Physics (5th ed.) , W. H. Freeman
K. S. Krane , 2019 , Modern Physics (4th ed.) , Wiley
J. Townsend and L. Muller , 2009 , Quantum Physics: A Fundamental Approach to Modern Physics , University Science Books
A. Das and T. Ferbel , 2003 , Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics , Singapore: World Scientific
J. J. Brehm and J. W. Mullin , 1989 , Introduction to the Structure of Matter , New York: John Wiley
K. S. Krane , 1988 , Introductory Nuclear Physics , New York: John Wiley

Assesssment methods and criteria:

Classification Type: Quantitativa (0-20)

Evaluation Methodology:
Blackboard will be used in theoretical classes to present the contents. The video projector can be used to display figures, graphs, and tables. In theoretical-practical classes, students will solve problems from the problem sheets prepared by the teacher. In laboratory classes, students will carry out experimental and computational activities guided by protocols prepared by the teacher. In accordance with the Assessment Model B of Regulation No. 821/2022, the assessment will have two components, one theoretical and the other laboratory, in which students will have to obtain at least 9.5 marks each. The theoretical component will consist of two tests, each with a weight of 35% in the final grade. The laboratory component will consist of the evaluation of two reports, one on an experimental activity, with a weight of 15% in the final grade, and the other on a computational activity, with a weight of 15% in the final grade.