PHYSICS (PHYS)

PHYS P22 Physics Frontiers: From Colliding Black Holes to PHYS 104 Fundamental Physics Units: 6.00
Disruptive Technologies Units: 3.00 Mechanics, including systems of particles and rigid body
A descriptive course exploring concepts in physics at motion; gravitation; fluids; electricity and magnetism;
the frontiers of active research. Bypassing jargon and oscillatory motion and waves; topics in modern physics.
mathematical complexities, students will focus on the big The material is presented at a more fundamental level
questions at the extremes of our understanding of the appropriate for students who are seeking a deeper
universe around us. Designed for non-scientists who want to appreciation of physics, and who may be considering a
learn how we try to understand our fantastic, physic natural concentration in Physics.
world. Learning Hours: 240 (72 Lecture, 36 Laboratory, 36 Tutorial,
Learning Hours: 114 (24 Lecture, 24 Practicum, 36 Online 96 Private Study)
Activity, 18 Off-Campus Activity, 12 Private Study) Requirements: Prerequisite None. Corequisite (MATH 120
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science or MATH 121 or [MATH 123 and MATH 124]). Exclusion
Course Learning Outcomes: PHYS 106; PHYS 115; PHYS 116; PHYS 117/6.0; PHYS 118;
PHYS 119. Recommended 4U Physics.
1. Demonstrate basic science literacy i.e., strong physics Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
critical thinking skills; an understanding of the relevant
quantities (and units) and foundational physics PHYS 106 General Physics Units: 6.00
relationships so that you can make simple predictions Mechanics, including systems of particles and rigid body
about issues that are relevant to you, your community and motion; fluids; electricity and magnetism; oscillatory motion
the world. and waves; heat, light and sound; topics in modern physics.
Aspects of physics useful for further work in other sciences
2. Create and implement simple experiments to
will be emphasized.
demonstrates key physics principles relevant to frontier
NOTE Also offered at the Bader College, UK. Learning Hours
physics, and use the results to evaluate one or more
may vary.
possible models.
Learning Hours: 240 (72 Lecture, 36 Laboratory, 36 Tutorial,
3. Evaluate the quality and accuracy of various physics 96 Private Study)
resources. Requirements: Prerequisite None. Corequisite (MATH 120
4. Assess the effectiveness and supportiveness of their or MATH 121 or [MATH 123 and MATH 124]). Exclusion
group members (and yourself). PHYS 104; PHYS 115; PHYS 116; PHYS 117/6.0; PHYS 118;
5. Synthesize ideas from several sources to create PHYS 119. Recommended 4U Physics.
and present an original physics teaching artifact/ Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
demonstration.
6. Describe active frontiers of physics research and their
potential impact on society.

[Link]/academic-calendar Physics (PHYS) 1

PHYS 115 Introduction to Physics I Units: 3.00 PHYS 116 Introduction to Physics II Units: 3.00
An algebra-based course dealing with basic physics concepts, An algebra-based course dealing with basic physics concepts,
including dynamics, fluids, and basic thermodynamics. including waves, electromagnetism, and basic optics.
PHYS 115 includes a required lab component. PHYS 116 includes a required lab component.
NOTE PHYS 115 and PHYS 116 together, are equivalent to NOTE PHYS 115 and PHYS 116 together, are equivalent to
PHYS 117/6.0. PHYS 117/6.0.
NOTE Manual: estimated cost $10. NOTE Manual: estimated cost $10.
Learning Hours: 132 (36 Lecture, 12 Laboratory, 12 Tutorial, Learning Hours: 132 (36 Lecture, 12 Laboratory, 12 Tutorial,
72 Private Study) 72 Private Study)
Requirements: Prerequisite None. Exclusion PHYS 104; Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 115. Exclusion PHYS 104;
PHYS 106; PHYS 117/6.0; PHYS 118; PHYS 119. PHYS 106; PHYS 117/6.0; PHYS 118; PHYS 119.
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Course Learning Outcomes: Course Learning Outcomes:

1. Analyze the information contained in various hypothetical 1. Analyze the information contained in various hypothetical
problem scenarios within the context of recognizable problem scenarios within the context of recognizable
physics laws and apply systematic problem-solving physics laws and apply systematic problem-solving
strategies to solve for unknown quantities. strategies to solve for unknown quantities.
2. Identify and interpret the laws of nature as summarized 2. Identify and interpret the laws of nature as summarized
by the fundamental concepts that constitute the by the fundamental concepts that constitute the
foundation of classical physics. foundation of classical physics.
3. Interpret and apply basic experiment methodologies 3. Interpret and apply basic experiment methodologies
designed to test fundamental concepts through direct designed to test fundamental concepts through direct
observation. observation.
4. Quantitatively analyze measurement results with effective 4. Quantitatively analyze measurement results with effective
evaluation of experimental uncertainties. evaluation of experimental uncertainties.
5. Relate nature's basic laws describing forces, motion, 5. Relate nature's basic laws describing forces, motion,
energy, momentum, thermodynamics, and the energy, waves, electromagnetism, optics, and the
conservation rules that constrain these laws to real world conservation rules that constrain these laws to real world
applications. applications.

Physics (PHYS) 2 [Link]/academic-calendar

PHYS 118 Basic Physics Units: 6.00 PHYS 212 Oscillations, Waves, and Optics Units: 3.00
An algebra-based course dealing with basic Physics concepts, Fundamentals of free, damped and forced vibrations
including dynamics, fluids, waves, electromagnetism, and with applications to various mechanical systems. Coupled
basic optics. Emphasis is placed on the development of oscillations and normal modes. Classical wave equation,
problem-solving skills through the use of Mastery based standing and travelling waves. Introduction to optics: lenses
course delivery. and mirrors, image formation and optical instruments, optical
NOTE Only offered online. Consult Arts and Science Online. resolution.
Learning Hours: 228 (132 Online Activity, 96 Private Study) Learning Hours: 120 (24 Lecture, 24 Tutorial, 72 Private
Requirements: Prerequisite None. Recommended 4U Study)
Physics. Exclusion PHYS 104/6.0; PHYS 106/6.0; PHYS 115/3.0; Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 206/3.0 and
PHYS 116/3.0; PHYS 117/6.0. PHYS 242/3.0.
Course Equivalencies: PHYS 118/118B Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science Course Learning Outcomes:
Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Describe and model the following: Fundamentals of
1. Students will apply nature's basic laws describing free, damped, and forced vibrations with applications to
forces and motion, energy and momentum, and the various mechanical systems. Coupled oscillations and
conservation rules that constrain these laws to real world normal modes. Classical wave equation, standing and
applications. travelling waves. Lenses and mirrors, image formation
2. Students will be able to analyze the information contained and optical instruments, optical resolution.
in various problem scenarios within the context of 2. Derive the classical wave equation and be fully conversant
recognizable physics laws and utilize systematic problem- with classical wave behavior, such as refraction,
solving strategies to solve for unknown quantities. diffraction, interference, and the superposition of waves.
3. Students will be able to identify and interpret the laws of 3. Identify normal modes in coupled oscillators.
nature as summarized by the fundamental concepts that 4. Relate the concepts listed above to real work applications.
constitute the foundations of classical physics. 5. Solve these differential equations to obtain the response
of the mechanical (or electrical) system analytically or
numerically using modern software packages such as
PHYS 119 Introductory Physics Laboratory Units: 1.50 MATLAB, Python, or Mathematica.
This is the laboratory portion of PHYS 117, offered for
6. Model image formation in multi-element optical systems.
students who completed the online PHYS 118 Basic Physics
course, but would like a laboratory experience. A laboratory
class in mechanics, electricity, waves and optics. This course
runs 8 experiments through the fall and winter terms.
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 118/6.0. Exclusion
PHYS 104/6.0; PHYS 106/6.0; PHYS 115/3.0; PHYS 116/3.0;
PHYS 117/6.0.
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
PHYS 206 Dynamics Units: 3.00
An introductory course in classical dynamics of particles, of
rigid bodies and of fluids that sets the foundation for more
advanced work. Topics include kinematics of particles and of
rigid bodies, central forces, kinetics of systems of particles,
planar and three dimensional dynamics of rigid bodies and
an introduction to fluid mechanics.
Requirements: Prerequisite ([PHYS 104 or PHYS 106] and
[MATH 120 or MATH 121]) or permission of the Department.
Recommended A minimum grade of a C in PHYS 104 or
PHYS 106.
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

[Link]/academic-calendar Physics (PHYS) 3

PHYS 213 Computational Methods in Physics Units: 3.00 PHYS 239 Electromagnetism Units: 3.00
Computing environments, algorithms, techniques and The experimental basis and mathematical description of
programming for solving physics problems. Numerical electrostatics, magnetostatics and electromagnetic induction,
methods. Code development. Possible topics to be covered together with a discussion of the properties of dielectrics and
include numerical differentiation and integration, root ferromagnetics, are presented. Both the integral and vector
finding and optimization problems, solution of linear forms of Maxwell's equations are deduced.
systems of equations, Monte Carlo simulation, and symbolic Requirements: Prerequisite (PHYS 104 or PHYS 106) and
computation. (MATH 221 or MATH 227 or MATH 280). Recommended A
Learning Hours: 120 (24 Lecture, 24 Tutorial, 72 Private minimum grade of a C in PHYS 104 or PHYS 106.
Study) Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Requirements: Prerequisite (PHYS 104 or PHYS 106) and PHYS 242 Relativity and Quanta Units: 3.00
(MATH 120 or MATH 121). Exclusion MATH 272; PHYS 313. Evidence for relativistic effects. Kinematics and dynamics
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science in special relativity, space-time diagrams, applications.
Course Learning Outcomes: Waves and the wave nature of light and matter. Evidence for
1. Analyze a physical problem, reducing the problem to quanta, spectra, Bohr atom. Introduction to the Schrödinger
study the key factors influencing the evolution of the equation.
system, and derive a system of equations to model the Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 104/6.0 or PHYS 106/6.0.
behaviour of the resulting system. Recommended Minimum grade of C in PHYS 104/6.0 or
PHYS 106/6.0.
2. Create, run and analyze the output (graphically and
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
otherwise) of computer programs, in a Python computing
Course Learning Outcomes:
environment.
3. Design the appropriate computer algorithm to solve 1. Understand the wave equation and the propagation of
the resulting equations and to implement it in well- harmonic waves, including electromagnetic radiation.
documented, clearly written code (Python). 2. Understand and apply basic transformations between
4. Synthesize the entire process above and create a clear, different reference frames in Special Relativity.
concise written report summarizing the key results. 3. Draw and read spacetime diagrams.
5. Test the resulting code using known results in simple 4. Model collisions between relativistic particles.
examples and interpret the results of simulations in 5. Describe the key phenomena of thermal radiation and
more general cases, determining the influence of each determine its properties.
parameter affecting the outcome.
6. Understand the wave and particle nature of matter and
light and its implications.

PHYS 216 Introduction to Astrophysics Units: 3.00 7. Understand the Schrödinger equation and the connection
Broad overview of basic laws of gravitation, radiation, and between the quantum mechanical description of nature
relativity: history and evolution of modern astronomy; ground and non-intuitive phenomena such as Heisenberg's
and space-based astronomy; the physics and evolution of Uncertainty Principle and quantum tunneling.
stars; the milky way; galaxies in the universe; and cosmology.
This course also uses the on-campus observatory at an
introductory level.
Requirements: Prerequisite ([PHYS 104 or PHYS 106] and
[MATH 120 or MATH 121]) or permission of the Department.
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

Physics (PHYS) 4 [Link]/academic-calendar

PHYS 250 Foundations of Experimental Physics Units: PHYS 315 Physical Processes in Astrophysics Units: 3.00
3.00 This course relates observable quantities to the physical
Laboratory and lecture course that presents techniques properties of astronomical sources thereby deciphering the
and skills that are the foundations of experimental physics. varied nature of the cosmos. Basic physical processes in
Topics include statistical analysis of data, uncertainties in astrophysics are discussed and applied to diverse systems
measurement, propagation of errors, software for data including planets, stars, the interstellar medium and
analysis, graphing and reporting. Students will be exposed to distant galaxies. Topics include radiative transfer and the
techniques in the measurement of electric, magnetic, thermal perturbation of the signal by instruments, the atmosphere,
and mechanical properties. Laboratories also illustrate some and the interstellar medium. The main astrophysical emission
principles of quantum physics, mechanics, electromagnetism processes, both continuum and line, are also presented. An
and thermodynamics learned in other physics courses. Some observing project will be carried out during the term.
exposure to computerized data acquisition is included. Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 84 Private Study)
Learning Hours: 132 (24 Lecture, 36 Laboratory, 72 Private Requirements: Prerequisite (PHYS 216 and PHYS 242) or
Study) permission of the Department.
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 104 or PHYS 106. Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science Course Learning Outcomes:

1. Calculate the various extraneous effects that degrade

astronomical information (the light from celestial sources)
as the signal passes through the interstellar medium, the
Earth's atmosphere, and the detector.
2. Design and carry out a straightforward observing project,
and analyze data from a real astronomical telescope
to develop an understanding of some of the practical
limitations in such scientific investigations.
3. Distinguish between the various wavelength, energy and
frequency domains at which astronomers make their
observations, and be able to explain the importance of
working in these different spectral domains for a full
understanding of the physics of the sources.
4. Explain the fundamental interactions between light
and atoms/molecules/dust particles that determine the
radiative output of astronomical sources.
5. Invert received astronomical signals to derive
astrophysical conclusion about the physical nature of the
source.

[Link]/academic-calendar Physics (PHYS) 5

PHYS 316 Methods in Mathematical Physics I Units: 3.00 PHYS 317 Methods in Mathematical Physics II Units:
Methods of mathematics important for physicists. Complex 3.00
arithmetic, series expansions and approximations of A continuation of PHYS 316. Partial differential equations,
functions, Fourier series and transforms, vector spaces and functions of a complex variable and contour integration, and
eigenvalue problems, ordinary differential equations and special topics such as probability and statistics, group theory
Green's functions. and non-linear dynamics.
Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 12 Tutorial, 72 Private Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 12 Tutorial, 72 Private
Study) Study)
Requirements: Prerequisite (MATH 221 or MATH 227 or Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 316. Exclusion MATH 228;
MATH 280) and (MATH 225 or MATH 231 or MATH 232). MATH 326; MATH 338; PHYS 312.
Exclusion MATH 334; MATH 338; PHYS 312. Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science Course Learning Outcomes:
Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Apply the methods of complex analysis and Green's
1. Algebraically manipulate complex numbers and complex functions to the wave equation and other common
exponentials. equations of physics.
2. Apply the standard methods of mathematical physics, 2. Apply the techniques of complex analysis to the
such as Green's functions, to solve ordinary differential computation of integrals via the residue theorem and
equations. contour integration.
3. Apply the techniques of linear vector spaces to problems 3. Apply the techniques of mathematical physics such as
in classical and quantum mechanics. separation of variables to solve partial different equations
4. Compute Fourier series and transforms of elementary commonly encountered in physics.
functions. 4. Develop a working knowledge of functions of a complex
variable, including the calculation of Laurent expansions.
5. Develop a working knowledge of the special functions
of mathematical physics, such as Bessel functions and
Legendre polynomials.
6. Develop an understanding of one or more special topics
in mathematical physics such as probability and statistics,
group theory, or nonlinear dynamics.

PHYS 321 Advanced Mechanics Units: 3.00

An introduction to the equations of mechanics using the
Lagrange formalism and to the calculus of variations leading
to Hamilton's principle. The concepts developed in this course
are applied to problems ranging from purely theoretical
constructs to practical applications. Links to quantum
mechanics and extensions to continuous systems are
developed.
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 212 and (MATH 221 or
MATH 227 or MATH 280) and (MATH 225 or MATH 231 or
MATH 232).
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

Physics (PHYS) 6 [Link]/academic-calendar

PHYS 332 Electromagnetic Theory Units: 3.00 PHYS 344 Introduction to Quantum Mechanics Units:
Electromagnetic theory and applications. Topics 3.00
include: Maxwell's equations, gauge theory, relativistic Matter waves. Postulates of wave mechanics. Stationary
transformations of Maxwell's equations, properties of states and one-dimensional potentials. Particle tunneling and
waves in free space, dielectrics, conductors and ionized scattering states. Introduction to matrix mechanics and Dirac
media, reflection and refraction at the surfaces of various notation. Quantized angular momentum, and the H atom.
media, propagation in metallic and dielectric waveguides, NOTE Manual: estimated cost $20.
radiation of electromagnetic waves from charged particles Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 212 and PHYS 242 and
and antennae. (MATH 221 or MATH 280) and (MATH 225 or MATH 231 or
Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 12 Tutorial, 72 Private MATH 232). Equivalency PHYS 343.
Study) Course Equivalencies: PHYS343, PHYS344
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 239/3.0 and (MATH 221/3.0 Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
or MATH 280/3.0) and (MATH 225/3.0 or MATH 231/3.0). PHYS 345 Quantum Physics of Atoms, Nuclei, and
Exclusion PHYS 432/3.0. Particles Units: 3.00
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science Spin. Addition of angular momentum. Many electron atoms
Course Learning Outcomes: and the periodic table. Introduction to perturbation theory
1. Apply each of Maxwell's equations and the Lorentz force and Fermi's golden rule. Time dependent perturbations,
law to solve problems involving charge and current including stimulated emission. Introduction to nuclear and
distributions and electromagnetic fields. particle physics.
NOTE Manual: estimated cost $20.
2. Manipulate equations using methods from vector calculus
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 344/3.0. Equivalency PHYS
and apply the integral and differential forms of Maxwell's
424/3.0*.
equations as appropriate.
Course Equivalencies: PHYS345, PHYS424
3. Apply conservation of energy and momentum principles Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
to solve problems involving fields and charges.
PHYS 350 General Laboratory Units: 6.00
4. Solve problems involving the propagation of
Experiments in heat, optics, electron physics, quantum
electromagnetic waves in free space and in waveguides.
physics, and radioactivity are performed. A substantial part
5. Relate the theories of special relativity and of the course is an experimental project during the Winter
electromagnetism and solve problems involving charges Term. A topic for the experimental physics, or observational
and extended objects moving at relativistic speeds. astronomy project will be assigned after discussion with the
student.
Learning Hours: 234 (72 Laboratory, 12 Tutorial, 6 Online
PHYS 334 Electronics for Physicists Units: 3.00 Activity, 144 Private Study)
The design of electronic circuits and systems, using Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 239/3.0 and PHYS 242/3.0
commonly available devices and integrated circuits. The and PHYS 250/3.0.
properties of linear circuits are discussed with particular Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
reference to the applications of feedback; operational
amplifiers are introduced as fundamental building blocks. PHYS 372 Thermodynamics Units: 3.00
Digital circuits are examined and the properties of the Temperature, equations of state, internal energy, first and
commonly available I.C. types are studied; their use in second laws, entropy and response functions. Application
measurement, control and signal analysis is outlined. to heat engines and refrigerators. Free energies, Legendre
Laboratory work is closely linked with lectures and provides transformations, changes of phase. Introduction to the
practical experience in the subjects covered in lectures. Boltzmann factor and statistical mechanics.
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 239. Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 242/3.0.
Course Equivalencies: PHYS333, PHYS334 Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

[Link]/academic-calendar Physics (PHYS) 7

PHYS 414 Introduction to General Relativity Units: 3.00 PHYS 417 Methods in Mathematical Physics II Units:
Einstein's theory of gravity is developed from fundamental 3.00
principles to a level which enables the student to read A continuation of PHYS 316. Partial differential equations,
some of the current literature. Includes an introduction functions of a complex variable and contour integration, and
to computer algebra, an essential element of a modern special topics such as probability and statistics, group theory
introduction to Einstein's theory. and non-linear dynamics.
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 316/3.0 and Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 12 Tutorial, 72 Private
PHYS 321/3.0. Study)
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 316/3.0. Exclusion
Course Learning Outcomes: MATH 228/3.0; MATH 326/3.0; MATH 338/3.0*; PHYS 317/3.0.
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
1. Appreciate Einstein's geometrization of gravity. Course Learning Outcomes:
2. Compare and analyze various extensions to the theory of
General Relativity. 1. Apply the methods of complex analysis and Green's
3. Describe the various constituents of modern cosmology. functions to the wave equation and other common
equations of physics.
4. Extend spherically symmetric vacuum to the axially
symmetric case. 2. Apply the techniques of complex analysis to the
computation of integrals via the residue theorem and
5. Identify what is meant by a solution to Einstein's
contour integration.
equations.
3. Apply the techniques of mathematical physics such as
separation of variables to solve partial different equations
commonly encountered in physics.
4. Develop a working knowledge of functions in a complex
variable, including the calculation of Laurent expansions.
5. Develop a working knowledge of the special functions
of mathematical physics, such as Bessel functions and
Legendre polynomials.
6. Develop an understanding of one or more special topics
in mathematical physics such as probability and statistics,
group theory or nonlinear dynamics.

Physics (PHYS) 8 [Link]/academic-calendar

PHYS 418 Physical Processes in Astrophysics Units: 3.00 PHYS 435 Stellar Structure and Evolution Units: 3.00
This course relates observable quantities to the physical This course provides a detailed account of the formation,
properties of astronomical sources thereby deciphering the structure, evolution and endpoints of stars. Topics include the
varied nature of the cosmos. Basic physical processes in HR diagram, nuclear energy generation, radiative transport
astrophysics are discussed and applied to diverse systems and stellar model building, supernovae, white dwarfs,
including planets, stars, the interstellar medium and neutron stars, pulsars and black holes.
distant galaxies. Topics include radiative transfer and the Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 216/3.0.
perturbation of the signal by instruments, the atmosphere, Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
and the interstellar medium. The main astrophysical emission Course Learning Outcomes:
processes, both continuum and line, are also presented. An
observing project will be carried out during the term. 1. Describe and model the energy generation and transfer
Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 84 Private Study) mechanisms reactions in stars.
Requirements: Prerequisite (PHYS 216/3.0 and PHYS 242/3.0) 2. Describe and model the evolutionary pathways of stars.
or permission of the Department. Exclusion PHYS 315/3.0. 3. Describe and model the various endpoint of stellar
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science evolution for stars of different masses.
Course Learning Outcomes: 4. Describe star formation mechanisms.

1. Calculate the various extraneous effects that degrade 5. Explain limitations in observational data and comparisons
astronomical information (the light from celestial sources) to theoretical star formation models.
as the signal passes through the interstellar medium, the
Earth's atmosphere, and the detector.
PHYS 444 Advanced Quantum Physics Units: 3.00
2. Design and carry out a straightforward observing project,
This course covers perturbation theory, scattering theory
and analyze data from a real astronomical telescope
and the addition of angular momentum. Special topics may
to develop an understanding of some of the practical
include: many-electron systems, path integral formulation of
limitations in such scientific investigations.
quantum mechanics, entanglement and quantum computing,
3. Distinguish between the various wavelength, energy and quantum optics.
frequency domains at which astronomers make their Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 345. Equivalency PHYS
observations, and be able to explain the importance of 426.
working in these different spectral domains for a full Course Equivalencies: PHYS426, PHYS444
understanding of the physics of the sources. Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
4. Explain the fundamental interactions between light
and atoms/molecules/dust particles that determine the
radiative output of astronomical sources.
5. Invert received astronomical signals to derive
astrophysical conclusion about the physical nature of the
source.

PHYS 432 Electromagnetic Theory Units: 3.00

Electromagnetic theory and applications. Topics
include: Maxwell's equations, gauge theory, relativistic
transformations of Maxwell's equations, properties of
waves in free space, dielectrics, conductors and ionized
media, reflection and refraction at the surfaces of various
media, propagation in metallic and dielectric waveguides,
radiation of electromagnetic waves from charged particles
and antennae.
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 239 and (MATH 221 or
MATH 280) and (MATH 225 or MATH 231 or MATH 232).
Equivalency PHYS 332.
Course Equivalencies: PHYS332, PHYS432
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

[Link]/academic-calendar Physics (PHYS) 9

PHYS 445 Quantum Physics of Atoms, Nuclei, and PHYS 460 Laser Optics Units: 3.00
Particles Units: 3.00 Topics and applications in modern physical optics,
Spin. Addition of angular momentum. Many electron atoms culminating with the development of the laser and its current
and the periodic table. Introduction to perturbation theory applications. Topics include: Gaussian beam propagation,
and Fermi's golden rule. Time dependent perturbations, optical resonators, Fourier optics, fiber optics, holography,
including stimulated emission. Introduction to nuclear and light-matter interaction using classical and semi-classical
particle physics. models, and the basic theory and types of lasers.
Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 12 Tutorial, 72 Private Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 239/3.0 and (PHYS 344/3.0
Study) or CHEM 313/3.0). Corequisite PHYS 332/3.0 or
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 344/3.0. Exclusion PHYS 432/3.0.
PHYS 345/3.0. Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science Course Learning Outcomes:
Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Apply Maxwell's formalism to determine the
1. Apply the postulates of quantum mechanics to determine characteristics of spatially coherent light propagating
the outcomes of measurements on a variety of quantum through free space and simple optical elements.
systems. 2. Apply the Lorentz model, to characterize classical light-
2. Determine the quantum states of total angular matter interaction, including dispersion and absorption.
momentum for different systems. 3. Apply the postulates of quantum mechanics to model
3. Use particle-exchange symmetry to characterize the semiclassical light-matter interaction (Maxwell-Bloch
energy levels of multi-particle systems. theory) and quantify optical amplification for particular
4. Determine the quantum states of multielectron atoms systems.
and molecules. 4. Characterize the performance of various gain media and
5. Estimate the ground state energy of quantum systems laser cavities to generate laser light.
using the variational method. 5. Identify an interesting technical problem and explain how
6. Determine the effects of perturbations on the energy optics solves it or may solve it.
levels of quantum systems.

PHYS 472 Statistical Mechanics Units: 3.00

PHYS 453 Advanced Physics Laboratory Units: 3.00 Phase space, the ergodic hypothesis and ensemble theory.
Advanced physics laboratory course providing students Canonical and grand canonical ensembles. Partition
with experience in a range of experimental techniques functions. Ideal quantum gases. Classical gases and the
and analysis. A selection of experiments are performed liquid-vapour transition. Introduction to techniques for
from fields including nuclear physics, applied physics, fluid interacting systems, including Monte Carlo simulations.
mechanics, solid state physics, low-temperature physics and Requirements: Prerequisite (PHYS 213 or PHYS 313) and
optics. PHYS 344 and PHYS 372. Exclusion CHEM 412.
Learning Hours: 132 (76 Laboratory, 60 Private Study) Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 350/3.0 and (PHYS 344/3.0
or CHEM 313/3.0).
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
PHYS 454 Advanced Physics Design Project Units: 3.00
Groups of students in physics and engineering physics
undertake a large design project of their choice that
reflects and further develops their knowledge of physics.
The students then build a prototype of their design to
demonstrate the feasibility of the project within the design
constraints.
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 350.
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

Physics (PHYS) 10 [Link]/academic-calendar

PHYS 479 High Performance Computational PHYS 480 Solid State Physics Units: 3.00
Physics Units: 3.00 A fundamental treatment of the properties of solids. Topics
This course teaches students how to use the tools of high include: crystal structure, X-ray and neutron scattering, the
performance computing facilities, including communications reciprocal lattice, phonons, electronic energy bands, and the
protocol for parallel computations. Students will employ thermal, magnetic, optical and transport properties of solids.
these facilities and tools and use various numerical Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 344/3.0. Corequisite
algorithms in the solution of physics problems. PHYS 445/3.0.
Learning Hours: 120 (24 Lecture, 24 Tutorial, 72 Private Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Study) Course Learning Outcomes:
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 213/3.0 and PHYS 344/3.0.
Corequisite PHYS 332/3.0 or PHYS 432/3.0. 1. Apply the postulates of quantum mechanics to determine
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science the outcomes of measurements on a variety of quantum
Course Learning Outcomes: systems.
2. Determine the quantum states of total angular
1. Communicate effective solution methods and results, momentum for different systems.
both in terms of code and report writing. 3. Use particle-exchange symmetry to characterize the
2. Implement a variety of advanced numerical algorithms to energy levels of multi-particle systems.
solve problems in physics that require high performance 4. Determine the quantum states of multielectron atoms
computers. and molecules.
3. Learn advanced numerical algorithms for simulation 5. Estimate the ground state energy of quantum systems
and modelling, and apply such approaches to different using the variational method.
problems, including (i) the dynamics of interacting
6. Determine the effects of perturbations on the energy
quantum systems, and (ii) boundary value problems in
levels of quantum systems.
advanced electromagnetic theory.
4. Learn one example of a communications protocol for
parallel computations, MPI (message passing interface),
and will learn to write python codes that implement MPI.
5. Learn to compile and submit parallelized codes to
distributed memory architecture machines (from
Compute Canada).
6. Work on a variety of high performance computing sites,
all linked by Compute Canada. Students will compile
and submit parallelized codes to distributed memory
architecture machines.
7. Work with one example of a communications protocol for
parallel computations, MPI (message passing interface),
and will develop python codes that integrate MPI.

[Link]/academic-calendar Physics (PHYS) 11

PHYS 483 Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Units: 3.00 PHYS 490 Nuclear and Particle Physics Units: 3.00
An examination of the key ideas, techniques and technologies A systematic introduction to nuclear and particle physics
in the fields of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Emphasis for advanced physics students. Topics include basic nuclear
will be placed on the physics involved, measurement properties: size, mass, decay and reactions; shell model of
techniques, and technological applications. Topics covered nuclear structure; magnetic moments; gamma and beta
are selected from the following: electrical and optical decay; quark model of elementary particles; and strong,
properties of quantum dots, quantum wires and nanotubes; electromagnetic and weak interactions.
quantum information technology; mesoscopic electronics; Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 344/3.0.
nanostructures on surfaces; and scanning-probe and optical Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
microscopy. Course Learning Outcomes:
Requirements: Prerequisite (PHYS 345/3.0 or PHYS 445/3.0
or CHEM 313/3.0) or permission of the Department. 1. Describe low energy nuclear physics, including nuclear
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science structure and basic interactions.
Course Learning Outcomes: 2. Describe particle physics including the quark model, the
structure of mesons and hadrons, the fundamental forces
1. Have a fundamental understanding of the underlying and interactions.
physics and engineering as it connects to nanoscience and 3. Describe nuclear instability and model rates and
nanotechnologies. properties for alpha, beta, and gamma decays, fusion and
2. Understand the limits and advantages of fabrication, fission.
analysis and characterization tools for nanoscale 4. Describe the process for calculating particle interaction
materials and devices. rates from first principles and the role of Feynman
3. Read and analyze papers from the current research Diagrams.
literature in a variety of fields. 5. Describe basic renormalization and model simple QED
4. Use effective oral communication and present a summary decay and annihilation processes from first principles.
of research scientific research. 6. Model nuclear and particle processes using 4-vectors and
5. Be able to explain scientific results and ideas including Special Relativity.
critical analysis. 7. Describe the role of experiments in testing particle
physics theories such as the Standard Model and describe
limitations and extensions to particle physics theories.
8. Describe the role of nuclear and particle physics in the
modern age including nuclear power (fission and fusion),
nuclear medicine, and fundamental science.

PHYS 491 Physics of Nuclear Reactors Units: 3.00

The objective of this course is the understanding of the
fundamental physics associated with a nuclear reactor.
Topics include a brief review of basic nuclear physics, neutron
interactions and cross-sections, neutron diffusion, neutron
moderation, theory of reactors, changes in reactivity, control
of reactors. Offered in alternate years.
NOTE Manual: estimated cost $15 to $25 per manual.
Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 12 Tutorial, 72 Private
Study)
Requirements: Prerequisite Level 3 or above and registration
in a (PHYS, ASPH or MAPH Plan).
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

Physics (PHYS) 12 [Link]/academic-calendar

PHYS 493 Plasma Physics Units: 3.00 PHYS 594 Independent Study Units: 3.00
An introduction to plasma physics. The motions of single Exceptionally qualified students entering their third- or
particles under the influence of various fields is considered fourth-year may take a program of independent study
first, followed by a fluid description of plasma. Topics also provided it has been approved by the Department or
include plasma properties, waves in plasma, equilibrium and Departments principally involved. The Department may
stability. approve an independent study program without permitting
Learning Hours: 120 (36 Lecture, 12 Tutorial, 72 Private it to be counted toward a concentration in that Department.
Study) It is, consequently, the responsibility of students taking such
Requirements: Prerequisite PHYS 239/3.0 and (MATH 225/3.0 programs to ensure that the concentration requirements for
or MATH 231/3.0) and (MATH 221/3.0 or MATH 280/3.0). their degree will be met.
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science NOTE Requests for such a program must be received one
Course Learning Outcomes: month before the start of the first term in which the student
intends to undertake the program.
1. Have a working definition of what constitutes a plasma. Requirements: Prerequisite Permission of the Department
2. Describe the motion of charged particles under the or Departments principally involved.
influence of various applied fields. Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
3. Be familiar with adiabatic invariants.
4. Develop a basic understanding of plasma as a fluid
including the governing magnetohydrodynamic.
5. Be familiar with the propagation of waves in plasma.
6. Describe diffusion processes, collision processes, and
plasma resistivity.
7. Be aware of various plasma instabilities.

PHYS 495 Introduction to Medical Physics Units: 3.00

Topics include: the production and measurement of X-rays
and charged particles for radiation therapy and nuclear
medicine; interactions of radiation with matter and biological
materials; interaction coefficients and radiation dosimetry;
radiation safety; physics of medical imaging with examples
from nuclear medicine, ultrasound and magnetic resonance
imaging.
Requirements: Prerequisite Level 3 or above and registration
in a (PHYS, ASPH or MAPH Plan).
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
PHYS 590 Research Thesis Units: 6.00
Investigation of a contemporary research topic in physics or
astronomy under the supervision of a faculty member, and
leading to a written thesis and an oral presentation of results.
Requirements: Prerequisite Level 4 or above and registration
in a (PHYS, ASPH or MAPH Plan).
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science

[Link]/academic-calendar Physics (PHYS) 13