Courses in Physics

LOWER-DIVISION

NOTE: The Department of Physics and Astronomy strictly enforces all course prerequisites. Courses with sequential designations (for example, 1A-B-C) indicate multiple-quarter courses; each course in a sequence is prerequisite to the one following.

3A-B-C Basic Physics (4-4-4) F, W, S, Summer. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. 3A: Vectors; motion, force, and energy. 3B: Fluids; heat; electricity and magnetism. 3C: Waves and sound; optics; quantum ideas; atomic and nuclear physics; relativity. Prerequisite or corequisite: Mathematics 2A-B. (II)

3LB Basic Physics Laboratory (1.5) W, S, Summer. Laboratory, three hours. Practical applications of electronics and classical physics to biology. Goals include skill to use oscilloscope and other basic instrumentation. (II)

3LC Basic Physics Laboratory (1.5) S, Summer, F. Laboratory, three hours. Practical applications of physics to medical imaging. Topics include optics, radioactivity, and acoustics. Prerequisite: Physics 3LB. (II)

7A-B-D Classical Physics (4-4-4) F, W, S; W, S, Summer. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. 7A: Units; vectors; motion; momentum; force. 7B: Energy; rotation and gravity. 7D: Electricity and magnetism. Corequisites for 7A-B-D: corresponding quarters of Physics 7LA-LB-LD; Mathematics 2A-B and 2C or 2D. Physics 7A and Physics 1 may not both be taken for credit. (II)

7LA-LB-LD Classical Physics Laboratory (1-1-1) F, W, S; W, S, Summer. Laboratory, two hours. Experiments related to lecture topics in Physics 7A-B-D. Corequisite: corresponding quarter of Physics 7A-B-D. (II)

7E Classical Physics (4) F, Summer. Lecture, three hours; discussion one hour. Fluids; oscillations; waves; and optics. Prerequisites: Physics 7B, Mathematics 2B. (II)

COURSES FOR NON-MAJORS

Course numbers between 14 and 21 are assigned to courses especially designed for students majoring in programs other than the physical sciences.

14 Physics of Energy and the Environment (4). Lecture, three hours. The physics of society's energy production and consumption, and of their influences on the environment. Topics include fossil and renewable energy resources; nuclear power; prospects for a hydrogen economy; efficient and environmentally benign transportation; efficient home and commercial energy usage. (II)

15 Physics of Music (4). Lecture, three hours. Introduces basic physical principles underlying generation and properties of music, including basic properties of sound waves, musical scales and temperament, musical instruments, and acoustics of music halls. No mathematics background required, but high school algebra is recommended. (II)

16 Physics of Weapons and Their Control (4). Lecture, three hours. Introduction to physics related to issues of peace and conflict. Topics include: nuclear and non-nuclear weapons, delivery systems, missile defense systems, satellite surveillance systems, technology for homeland security, and arms control. Same as International Studies 16. (II)

17 Physics of Athletics (4). Lecture, three hours. Introduces basic physical principles behind motion. Examples are drawn from a range of athletic endeavors (such as ice skating, baseball, diving, and dance). No mathematics background required, but high school algebra is recommended. (II)

18 How Things Work (4) S. Lecture, three hours. Survey of the physical basis of modern technology, with an emphasis on electronics and materials. Topics include power generation and distribution, communication (radio, TV, telephone, computers, tape recorders, CD players), imaging (optics, x-rays, MRI), and modern materials (alloys, semiconductors, superconductors, polymers, ceramics, liquid crystals). (II)

19 Great Ideas of Physics (4). Lecture, three hours. Introduces nonscience majors to physics, examining important breakthroughs and controversies. Potential topics: Einstein's Relativity; Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle; black holes; extra-dimensions; antimatter. Case studies illustrate the essential nature of scientific review and independent confirmation of results. No mathematics background required. (II)

20 Physical Science of the Earth and Cosmos. Introduction to the physical environment. The formation, structure, and evolution of the Earth, planets, stars, galaxies, and the universe as a whole.

20A Introduction to Astronomy (4) F, S. History of astronomy. Underlying physics. Objects in the solar system and how they are studied. Properties of stars: their formation, structure, and evolution. Pulsars and black holes. Galaxies and quasars. (II)

20B Cosmology: Man's Place in the Universe (4) W. "Cook's Tour" of the universe. Ancient world models. Evidence for universal expansion; the size and age of the universe and how it all began. The long-range future and how to decide the right model. Anthropic principle. (II)

20C Observational Astronomy (4). Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Fundamental observational techniques used in astronomy, including the analysis and interpretation of images and spectra that allow students to determine orbits of planets and moon, time evolution of supernovae, ages of star clusters, Hubble's Law. Naked-eye observations of the night sky. Observations of stars and galaxies with the UCI 24-inch telescope. Current events in observational astronomy. Prerequisites: Physics 20A, 20B. (II)

20D Space Science (4) S. Motions of planets, satellites, and rockets. Propulsion mechanisms and space flight. The solar radiation field and its influence on planets. The interplanetary medium, solar wind, and solar-terrestrial relations. (II)

21 Special Topics in Physics (4). Lecture, three hours. Topics vary. Past topics have included physics and music, Newton, planetary science. Lectures on areas of special interest in physics are used to introduce students to scientific method, fundamental laws of science, qualitative and quantitative analysis of data. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. (II)

ADVANCED LOWER-DIVISION

50 Mathematical Methods for Physical Science (4) S. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Mathematica and its applications to linear algebra, differential equations, and complex functions. Fourier series and Fourier transforms. Other topics in integral transforms. Corequisite: Mathematics 2E. Prerequisites: Mathematics 2J and 3D.

51A-B Modern Physics (4-4) W, S. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. 51A: Wave-particle duality; quantum mechanics; special relativity; statistical mechanics. Prerequisites: Physics 7E and Mathematics 2D. 51B: Atoms; molecules; solids, nuclei; elementary particles. Physics 51A-B is for nonmajors only. Corresponding segments of Physics 51A-B and 61A-B may not both be taken for credit.

52A-B-C Fundamentals of Experimental Physics (2-2-2) F, W, S. Laboratory, four hours. 52A: Optics: lenses, mirrors, polarization, lasers, optical fibers, interference, spectra. Corequisite: Physics 7E. 52B: Circuits: oscilloscope, meters, DC and AC circuits. Corequisite: Mathematics 2J. Prerequisite: Physics 7D. 52C: Data analysis: random and systematic errors, curve fitting; nuclear counting; quantum experiments. Prerequisite: Physics 51A or 61A.

53 Introduction to C and Numerical Analysis (4) S. Introduction to structured programming; in-depth training in C. Elementary numerical methods applied to physics problems. Prerequisites: Mathematics 2J and 3D.

61A-B Modern Physics for Majors (4-4) W, S. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. 61A: Special Relativity; wave-particle duality; Schrödinger equation; angular momentum. Prerequisites: Physics 7E and Mathematics 2D. 61B: Atomic transitions; molecules; statistical physics; solids; nuclei; elementary particles; cosmological models. Corresponding segments of Physics 61A-B and 51A-B may not both be taken for credit.

H90 The Idiom and Practice of Science (4) W. Lecture, three hours; discussion, two hours. A series of fundamental and applied scientific problems of social relevance. Possible topics include Newton's Laws, calculus, earthquake physics, and radiation. Open only to members of the Campuswide Honors Program. (II)

99 General Physics Seminar (1) F, W, S. Designed to introduce undergraduate students to current topics in physics. Focus is discussion of selected readings on current research issues. May be repeated for credit.

UPPER-DIVISION

100 Computational Methods (4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, six hours. Mathematical and numerical analysis using Mathematica and C programming, as applied to problems in physical science. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Concurrent with Physics 229A.

106 Laboratory Skills (4 to 6) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, six to ten hours. Introduces students to a variety of practical laboratory techniques, including lock-in, boxcar, coincidence counting, noise filtering, PID control, properties of common transducers, computer interfacing to instruments, vacuum technology, laboratory safety, basic mechanical design, and shop skills. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Concurrent with Physics 206 and Chemistry 206.

111A-B Classical Mechanics (4-4) F, W. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. One dimensional motion and oscillations; three-dimensional motion, non-inertial coordinates, conservation laws, and Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics; rigid body motion and relativity. Prerequisites: Physics 7E and 50; Mathematics 2J and 3D.

112A-B Electromagnetic Theory (4-4) F, W. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Electric, magnetic, and gravitational fields and potentials; electrodynamics; mechanical and electromagnetic waves and radiation. Prerequisites: Physics 7D and 50; Mathematics 2E.

113A-B-C Quantum Physics (4-4-4) S, F, W. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Inadequacy of classical physics; time independent and time dependent Schrodinger equation; systems in one, two, and three dimensions; matrices; Hermitian operators; symmetries; angular momentum; perturbation theory; scattering theory; applications to atomic structure; emphasis on phenomenology. Prerequisites: Physics 111B and 112B.

115A Statistical Physics (4) S. Lecture, three hours. Microscopic theory of temperature, heat, and entropy; kinetic theory; multicomponent systems; quantum statistics. Prerequisite: Physics 111A.

115B Thermodynamics (4) S. Lecture, three hours. Macroscopic theory of temperature, heat, and entropy; mathematical relationships of thermodynamics; heat engines; phase transitions. Prerequisite: Physics 115A.

120 Electronics for Scientists (4) F. Lecture, two hours; laboratory, four hours. Applications of modern semiconductor devices to physical instrumentation. Characteristics of semiconductor devices, integrated circuits, analog and digital circuits. Prerequisite: Physics 52B or consent of instructor. Concurrent with Physics 220.

121 Advanced Laboratory (4) W, S. Lecture, one hour; laboratory, eight hours. Experiments in atomic, condensed matter, nuclear, particle, and plasma physics. Introduction to instrumentation and a first experience in the research laboratory. Prerequisites: Physics 51B or 61B, and 52C. May be taken for credit three times.

125A-B Mathematical Physics (4-4) F. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Complex variables; Legendre and Bessel functions; complete sets of orthogonal functions; partial differential equations; integral equations; calculus of variations; coordinate transformations; special functions and series. Prerequisite: Physics 113A.

131 Special Topics in Computational Physics (4). Lecture, three hours. Modern symbolic and numerical techniques on state-of-the-art computers for solving problems in classical and quantum mechanics, fluids, electromagnetism, and mathematical physics. Prerequisites: Physics 53, 113A, and 115A. May be repeated for credit as topic varies. Concurrent with Physics 231.

CAPSTONE SEMINARS

NOTE: Some of the upper-division courses listed below have one or two hours of discussion weekly in addition to the lectures. Students should refer to the quarterly WebSOC, Searchable Schedule of Classes for specific information.

132 Introduction to Nuclear Physics (4). Lecture, three hours. Nucleons and nuclear structure, radioactivity, neutron-proton scattering, the deuteron, nuclear reactions. Prerequisite: Physics 113A.

133 Introduction to Condensed Matter Physics (4) S. Lecture, three hours. Phenomena of solids and their interpretation in terms of quantum theory. Prerequisites: Physics 113B and 115A.

134A Optics (4) F of even years. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Fundamentals of geometrical and physical optics. Lenses and mirrors, interference and diffraction, the eye and vision, instrumentation for astronomy and medicine. Corequisite: Physics 112B. Prerequisite: Physics 112A.

134B Modern Optics (4) W of odd years. Lecture, three hours. Interaction of radiation with matter; lasers; nonlinear optics; optical properties of solids; absorption and scattering of light; modern spectroscopic techniques. Corequisite: Physics 112B. Prerequisite: Physics 112A. Formerly Physics 134.

135 Introduction to Plasma Physics (4) F. Lecture, three hours. Ionization and discharge mechanisms; microscopic motions and kinetic equations; macroscopic fluid theories; electrodynamics of plasma; waves and instabilities; examples of laboratory and cosmic phenomena. Prerequisite: Physics 112B.

136 Introduction to Particle Physics (4) W. Lecture, three hours. Experimental techniques and theoretical concepts of high-energy phenomena: accelerators and detectors; classification of particles and interactions; particle properties; symmetries and mass multiplets; production and decay mechanisms. Prerequisite: Physics 113B.

137 Introduction to Cosmology (4) W. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Solution of the differential equations governing the expansion of the Universe. Observational determinations of the parameters governing the expansion. Big Bang inflation, primordial nucleosynthesis, and cosmic microwave background. Dark matter, dark energy, and large-scale structure of the Universe. Prerequisites: Physics 111A, Mathematics 3D.

138 Extragalactic Astrophysics (4) W. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Introduction to the solar neighborhood, Milky Way, and other galaxies. Interstellar medium. Star formation. Stellar populations. Evolution of spiral, elliptical, and irregular galaxies. Supermassive black holes, quasars, and active galaxies. Galaxies as probes of the expansion rate of the Universe. Prerequisites: Physics 111A-B.

139 Observational Astrophysics (4) F. Lecture, one hour; laboratory, eight hours. Telescopes and astronomical observations, imaging with CCD detectors and image processing techniques. Photometry and spectroscopy of stars, galaxies, and quasars. Advanced imaging techniques such as deconvolution, adaptive optics, and interferometry. Prerequisites: Physics 52A-B-C; Physics 53 or equivalent computing experience.

144 Stellar Astrophysics (4) S of odd years. Lecture, three hours. Stars: their structure and evolution; physical state of the interior; the Hertzprung-Russell diagram, stellar classification, and physical principles responsible for the classification; star formation; nuclear burning; giant and dwarf stars; neutron stars and black holes. Prerequisites: Physics 51B or 61B, 111A, and 112A.

145 High-Energy Astrophysics (4) S of even years. Lecture, three hours. Production of radiation by high-energy particles, white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes. Evolution of galactic nuclei, radio galaxies, quasars, and pulsars. Cosmic rays and the cosmic background radiation. Prerequisites: Physics 51B or 61B, 111A, and 112A.

146A-B Biophysics of Molecules and Molecular Machines (4-4) F, W. Lecture, three hours. Physical concepts and experimental and computational techniques used to study the structure and function of biological molecules and molecular machines with examples from enzyme action, protein folding, molecular motors, photobiology, chemotaxis, and vision. Prerequisite: Physics 115A or consent of instructor. Concurrent with Physics 230A-B.

147A-B-C Principles of Imaging. Lecture, three hours.

147A Principles of Imaging (4) F. Linear systems, probability and random processes, image processing, projection imaging, tomographic imaging. Prerequisite: Physics 51B or 61B or equivalent. Concurrent with Physics 233A and Engineering EECS202A.

147B Techniques in Medical Imaging I: X-ray, Nuclear, and NMR Imaging (4) W. Ionizing radiation, planar and tomographic radiographic and nuclear imaging, magnetism, NMR, MRI imaging. Prerequisite: Physics 147A. Concurrent with Physics 233B and Engineering EECS202B.

147C Techniques in Medical Imaging II: Ultrasound, Electrophysiological, Optical (4) S. Sound and ultrasound, ultrasonic imaging, physiological electromagnetism, EEG, MEG, ECG, MCG, optical properties of tissues, fluorescence and bioluminescence, MR impedance imaging, MR spectroscopy, electron spin resonance and ESR imaging. Prerequisite: Physics 147B. Concurrent with Physics 233C and Engineering EECS202C.

150 Special Topics in Physics and Astronomy (4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Current topics in physics. Includes topics from nano-science, biological sciences, astrophysics, and the common use of estimation across subdisciplines within physics. May be repeated for credit as topics vary.

EDUCATION

191 Field Experience in Physics Education (1 to 4) F, W, S. Students develop and perform physics assemblies at neighboring public schools. Prerequisites: Physics 7B-D-E or equivalent. Pass/Not Pass only. May be taken for a total of eight units.

192 Tutoring in Physics (1 to 2). Enrollment limited to students participating in the Society of Physics Students (SPS) tutoring program. This course satisfies no requirements other than contribution to the 180 units required for graduation. No more than 12 units may be counted toward the 180 units required. Prerequisite: Physics 7E or consent of instructor.

RESEARCH

195 Undergraduate Research (4). Open to seniors and occasionally to juniors with consent of the Department. Pass/Not Pass Only.

196A-B-C Thesis in Physics (4-4-4) F, W, S. Independent research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member. Students' research results are discussed in oral presentations, and a written proposal, progress report, and thesis are submitted. Prerequisites: Physics 113A and consent of instructor; prerequisite for 196C: satisfactory completion of the lower-division writing requirement. Physics 196A-B-C and H196A-B-C may not both be taken for credit. Physics 196C and 197 may not both be taken for credit.

H196A-B-C Honors Thesis in Physics (4-4-4) F, W, S. Independent research conducted under the guidance of a faculty member. Students' research results are discussed in oral presentations, and a written proposal, progress report, and thesis are submitted. Prerequisite for H196C: satisfactory completion of the lower-division writing requirement. Open only to participants in the Honors Program in Physics and to Physics majors participating in the Campuswide Honors Program. Physics H196A-B-C and 196A-B-C may not both be taken for credit. Physics H196C and 197 may not both be taken for credit. Formerly Physics H195, H196.

197 Research Writing for Physics Majors (4) S. Students perform a research project under the guidance of a faculty member. Written and oral proposals, a progress report, and written and oral final reports are completed. Prerequisites: Physics 111A-B, 112A-B, 113A, 115A, and satisfactory completion of the lower-division writing requirement. Only one course from Physics 197, 196C, and H196C may be taken for credit.

199 Readings on Special Topics (1 to 4). Prerequisite: consent of the Department. Pass/Not Pass Only. May be repeated for credit.

GRADUATE

206 Laboratory Skills (4 to 6) S, Summer. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, six to ten hours. Introduces students to a variety of practical laboratory techniques, including lock-in, boxcar, coincidence counting, noise filtering, PID control, properties of common transducers, computer interfacing to instruments, vacuum technology, laboratory safety, basic mechanical design, and shop skills. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Same as Chemistry 206. Concurrent with Physics 106.

207 Chemistry for Physicists (4). Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Introduction to fundamental concepts in molecular structure and reactivity: theory of bonding, valence and molecular orbitals; structure and reactivity in inorganic chemistry; elements in molecular group theory; nomenclature in organic chemistry; and survey of macromolecules. Same as Chemistry 207.

208 Mathematics for Chemists (4). Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Applications of mathematics to physical and chemical problems. Calculus of special functions, complex variables and vectors; linear vector spaces and eigenvalue problems. Differential equations. Same as Chemistry 208.

211 Classical Mechanics (4) F. Lecture, three hours. Variational principles, Lagrange's equations; applications to two body problems, small oscillation theory, and other phenomena. Hamilton's equations. Hamilton-Jacobi theory. Canonical transformations.

212A-B Mathematical Physics (4-4) F, S. Lecture, three hours. 212A: Complex variables and integration; ordinary and partial differential equations; the eigenvalue problem. 212B: Integral transforms; integral equations; probability and statistics; tensor analysis.

213A-B Electromagnetic Theory (4-4) W, S. Lecture, three hours. Electrostatics; magnetostatics; relativity; classical electron theory; fields in vacuum and matter; retardation; radiation and absorption; dispersion; propagation of light; diffraction; geometric optics; theories of the electric and magnetic properties of materials; scattering.

213C Modern Optics (4). Lecture, three hours. Modern optics, linear and non-linear. Waves in dispersive media, weak non-linearities, higher order interactions, light scattering, strong non-linearities, laser radiation. Prerequisites: Physics 213A-B.

214A-B Statistical Physics (4-4) F, W. Lecture, three hours. 214A: Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein, Fermi-Dirac statistics; ideal and imperfect gases; thermodynamic properties of solids; transport theory. 214B: Phase transitions; critical phenomena; cooperative phenomena; fluctuations.

214C Many Body Theory (4). Application of field theory methods, perturbative and non-perturbative, to many particle systems; second quantization, Feynman diagrams, linear response theory, and functional integral methods applied to the ground state and at finite temperature. Prerequisites: Physics 214A and 215A-B.

215A-B-C Quantum Mechanics (4-4-4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. 215A: Foundations; Dirac notation; basic operators and their eigenstates; perturbation theory; spin. 215B: Atomic physics; scattering theory, formal collision theory; semi-classical radiation theory; many body systems. 215C: Quantization of the electromagnetic field; relativistic quantum mechanics; second quantization.

220 Electronics for Scientists (4) F. Lecture, two hours; laboratory, four hours. Applications of modern semiconductor devices to physical instrumentation. Characteristics of semiconductor devices, integrated circuits, analog and digital circuits. Prerequisite: graduate standing. Concurrent with Physics 120.

222 Continuum Mechanics (4) F. Introduction to the continuum limit and stress and strain tensors. Hydrodynamics of perfect fluids; two-dimensional problems, motion of incompressible viscous fluids, Navier-Stokes equations. Basic elasticity theory. Description of viscoelastic materials. Introduction to nonlinear behavior instabilities.

223 Numerical Methods (4) S. Lecture, three hours; laboratory, one hour. Introduction to theory and practice of modern numerical methods. Techniques are drawn from topics such as solution of differential equations, Monte Carlo methods, Fast Fourier transforms, and evaluation of special functions.

224 Discoveries and Inventions of Modern Physics (4). Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Introduction to physical phenomenology intended to complement the more formal traditional physics curriculum, with topics drawn from atomic and nuclear physics, condensed matter, particle physics, plasma physics, and astrophysics.

228 Electromagnetism (4) W. Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Maxwell's equations, electrodynamics, electromagnetic waves and radiation, wave propagation in media, interference and quantum optics, coherent and incoherent radiation, with practical applications in interferometry, lasers, waveguides, and optical instrumentation. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Same as Chemistry 228.

229A-B Computational Methods (4-4). Lecture, three hours; laboratory, six hours. Mathematical and numerical analysis using Mathematica and C programming, as applied to problems in physical science. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Same as Chemistry 229A-B. Physics 229A is concurrent with Physics 100.

230A-B Biophysics of Molecules and Molecular Machines (4-4) F, W. Lecture, three hours. Physical concepts and experimental and computational techniques used to study the structure and function of biological molecules and molecular machines with examples from enzyme action, protein folding, molecular motors, photobiology, chemotaxis, and vision. Concurrent with Physics 146A-B.

231 Special Topics in Computational Physics (4). Lecture, three hours. Modern symbolic and numerical techniques on state-of-the-art computers for solving problems in classical and quantum mechanics, fluids, electromagnetism, and mathematical physics. Concurrent with Physics 131. May be repeated for credit as topic varies.

233A-B-C Principles of Imaging. Lecture, three hours.

233A Principles of Imaging (4) F. Linear systems, probability and random processes, image processing, projection imaging, tomographic imaging. Prerequisite: Physics 51B or 61B or equivalent. Same as Engineering EECS202A. Concurrent with Physics 147A.

233B Techniques in Medical Imaging I: X-ray, Nuclear, and NMR Imaging (4) W. Ionizing radiation, planar and tomographic radiographic and nuclear imaging, magnetism, NMR, MRI imaging. Prerequisite: Physics 233A. Same as Engineering EECS202B. Concurrent with Physics 147B.

233C Techniques in Medical Imaging II: Ultrasound, Electrophysiological, Optical (4) S. Sound and ultrasound, ultrasonic imaging, physiological electromagnetism, EEG, MEG, ECG, MCG, optical properties of tissues, fluorescence and bioluminescence, MR impedance imaging, MR spectroscopy, electron spin resonance and ESR imaging. Prerequisite: Physics 233B. Same as Engineering EECS202C. Concurrent with Physics 147C.

234A Elementary Particle Physics (4) F. Lecture, three hours. Overview of Standard Model theory and phenomenology. Electromagnetic, strong and weak forces, quark model, interactions with matter, particle detectors and accelerators. Prerequisite: Physics 215C or consent of instructor.

234B-C Advanced Elementary Particle Physics (4-4) W, S. Lecture, three hours. SU(3)xSU(2)xU(1) model of strong, weak, and electromagnetic interactions. K-meson system and CP violation, neutrino masses and mixing, grand-unified theories, supersymmetry, introduction to cosmology and its connection to particle physics. Prerequisites: Physics 234A and 235A.

235A Quantum Field Theory (4) F. Lecture, three hours. Canonical quantization, scalar field theory, Feynman diagrams, tree-level quantum electrodynamics. Prerequisites: Physics 215C and completion of first-year graduate courses.

235B Advanced Quantum Field Theory (4) W. Lecture, three hours. Path-integral techniques, loop diagrams, regularization and renormalization, anomalies. Prerequisites: Physics 235A and completion of first-year graduate courses.

238A-B-C Condensed Matter Physics (4-4-4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. Bonding in solids; crystal symmetry and group theory, elastic properties of crystals; lattice vibrations, interaction of radiation with matter; cohesion of solids; the electron gas; electron energy bands in solids; ferromagnetism; transport theory; semiconductors and superconductors; many-body perturbation theory. Prerequisites: Physics 133 and Physics 214A or Chemistry 232A; Physics 215B or Chemistry 231B; consent of instructor.

239A-B-C-D Plasma Physics (4-4-4-4) S, F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. 239A: Basic concepts, orbits, kinetic and fluid equations, Coulomb collisions, fluctuations, scattering, radiation. 239B: Magnetic confinement, MHD equilibrium and stability, collisional transport. 239C: Linear waves and instabilities, uniform un-magnetized and magnetized plasmas, non-uniform plasmas. 239D: Nonlinear plasma physics, quasilinear theory, large-amplitude coherent waves, resonance broadening, strong turbulence.

240A Galactic Astrophysics (4) S. Lecture, three hours. The morphology, kinematics, and evolution of our Milky Way and other galaxies. Topics include stellar formation and stellar evolution, end states of stars (supernovae, neutron stars), the distribution of stars, interstellar gas and mass in galaxies. The Local Group.

240B Cosmology (4) F. Lecture, three hours. An introduction to modern cosmology set within the context of general relativity. Topics include the expansion history of the Universe, inflation, the cosmic microwave background, density fluctuations, structure formation, dark matter, dark energy, and gravitational lensing.

240C Radiative Processes in Astrophysics (4) W. Lecture, three hours. Exploration of radiation mechanisms (electron scattering, synchrotron emission, collisional excitation, and more) and radiative transfer through matter including absorption and emission. Includes such observational astrophysics topics as spectroscopic study of atoms and nuclei, X-rays, and cosmic rays.

241A Solar System and Extrasolar Planets (4) F. Lecture, three hours. Observational and theoretical study of the Solar System, present-day dynamical state of the Solar System (asteroids, Kuiper Belt objects, Oort cloud), planetary formation, detection of extrasolar planets and their physical properties. Prerequisites: Physics 211; 240A and 240C are highly recommended .

241B Stellar Astrophysics (4) W. Lecture, three hours. Physics of stellar interiors and equations of stellar structure. Stellar atmospheres and absorption processes. Introduction to stellar winds. Thermonuclear reactions, nucleosynthesis, and solar neutrinos. Binary stars and mass accretion. White dwarfs, supernovae, neutron stars, and black holes. Prerequisites: Physics 211, 240A.

241C Extragalactic Astrophysics (4) W. Lecture, three hours. The physics and phenomenology of galaxies; star formation, interstellar medium, and intergalactic medium. Galaxy structure and dynamics. Galaxy evolution, stellar populations, and scaling relations; the relationship between galaxy properties and environment. Galaxy clusters and active galactic nuclei. Prerequisites: Physics 211, 240A.

241D Early Universe Physics (4) S. Lecture, three hours. Includes a thorough quantum treatment of the generation of perturbations during inflation and various topics related to kinetic theory in an expanding Universe. Other topics include the astrophysics and cosmology of weakly interacting particles. Prerequisites: Physics 234A, and either 240B or 255.

245 Special Topics in Biological Physics (4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. Outlines and emphasizes a subarea of biological physics that is undergoing rapid development. May be repeated for credit.

246 Special Topics in Astrophysics (4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. Outlines and emphasizes a subarea of astrophysics that is undergoing rapid development. Prerequisites: Physics 236A-B-C or consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit.

247 Special Topics in Particle Physics (4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. Current topics in particle non-accelerator-based research fields. May be repeated for credit.

248 Special Topics in Condensed Matter Physics (4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. Outlines and emphasizes a subarea of condensed matter physics that is undergoing rapid development. May be repeated for credit.

249 Special Topics in Plasma Physics (4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. Outlines and emphasizes a subarea of plasma physics that is undergoing rapid development. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisites: Physics 239A-B. May be repeated for credit.

255 General Relativity (4). Lecture, three hours. An introduction to Einstein's theory of gravitation. Tensor analysis, Einstein's field equations, astronomical tests of Einstein's theory, gravitational waves.

260-299: SEMINARS AND RESEARCH

These courses are designed to acquaint students with the basic concepts and methods underlying current research activity in selected branches of physics.

260A-B-C Seminar in Condensed Matter Physics (1-1-1) F, W, S. Seminar designed to acquaint students with recent advances in solid state physics. Lecturers from the Department of Physics and Astronomy (both faculty and graduate students), other UCI departments, and other institutions. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit.

261A-B-C Seminar in Plasma Physics (1-1-1) F, W, S. Advanced topics in plasma physics: wave propagation, nonlinear effects, kinetic theory and turbulence, stability problems, transport coefficients, containment, and diagnostics. Applications to controlled fusion and astrophysics. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisites: Physics 239A-B-C-D or equivalent.

263A-B-C Seminar in Particle Physics (1-1-1) F, W, S. Discussion of advanced topics and reports of current research results in theoretical and experimental particle physics and cosmic rays. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit.

265A-B-C Seminar in Astrophysics (1-1-1) F, W, S. Acquaints students with current research in astrophysics. Lecturers from the Department of Physics and Astronomy and from other institutions. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. May be repeated for credit.

266 Current Topics in Chemical and Materials Physics (4). Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. The subjects covered vary from year to year. Connection between fundamental principles and implementations in practice in science, industry, and technology. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Same as Chemistry 266.

267A-B-C Current Problems in Particle Physics (4-4-4) F, W, S. Lecture, three hours. Presentation and discussion of current research and theory in particle physics. Lectures given by staff and students. May be repeated for credit.

269 Seminar in Teaching Physics (2) F. Techniques for effective teaching. Covers active listening and student engagement, problem-solving skills, peer instruction and collaborative learning, and evaluation. Required of all new Teaching Assistants. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only.

273 Technical Communication Skills (2). Lecture, one hour; discussion, three hours. Development of effective communication skills, oral and written presentations, through examples and practice. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. Same as Chemistry 273.

291 Research Seminar (4) F, W, S. Detailed discussion of research problems of current interest in the Department. Format, content, and frequency of the course are variable. Prerequisites: graduate standing and consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit as topics vary.

295 Experimental Research (4 to 12). With the approval of a faculty member, a student may pursue a research program in experimental physics. Typical areas include astrophysics, condensed matter physics, elementary particle physics, and plasma physics.

296 Theoretical Research (4 to 12). With approval of a faculty member, a student may pursue a research program in theoretical physics. Typical areas include astrophysics, condensed matter physics, elementary particle physics, and plasma physics.

298 Physics Colloquium (1). Seminar held each week, in which a current research topic is explored. Frequently, off-campus researchers are invited to present the seminar, and on occasion a faculty member or researcher from the Department will speak. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. May be repeated for credit.

299 Reading of Special Topic (4 to 12). With special consent from a faculty member who will agree to supervise the program, a student may receive course credit for individual study of some area of physics.

395 Laboratory Teaching (1) F, W, S, Summer. Lecture, two hours. Required of and limited to teaching assistants of undergraduate laboratory courses. Designed to teach the necessary skills required of teaching assistants for these courses. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory only. May be repeated for credit.

399 University Teaching (1 to 4) F, W, S. Required of and limited to Teaching Assistants.