Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2017 - PHYS 384 D100

Methods of Theoretical Physics I (3)

Class Number: 1580

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 5 – Dec 4, 2017: Mon, Wed, Fri, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 6, 2017
    Wed, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MATH 252 or 254; MATH 310; PHYS 255 or ENSC 320, with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: PHYS 211.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Applications of mathematical methods in physics, differential equations of physics, eigenvalue problems, solutions to wave equations. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

  1. One dimensional scalar fields, initial and boundary value problems, vibrating strings, infinite strings, energy flow, damped and forced oscillations, Green's Function technique in 1-dimension, Dirac δ function.
  2. Two dimensional scalar fields, rectangular, circular and wedge shaped membranes, normal modes, temperature distributions in a circular annulus, introduction to Bessel functions.
  3. Three dimensional scalar and vector fields of physics, propagation of electromagnetic and sound waves, heat flow, neutron diffusion, temperature distribution in a solid sphere, spherical Bessel functions and spherical harmonics, expansion of plane waves, Green's function techniques in three dimensions.
  4. Problems of mathematical physics with continuous spectra, integral transform techniques, wave packets, vibrations of infinite and semi-infinite membranes.
  5. Applications of complex variables, contour integrals, dispersion relations, steepest descent.
  6. Calculus of variations

Grading

  • Problem Sets 40%
  • Midterm 15%
  • Final exam 45%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Recommended Text:
SFU Course pack: Mathematical Physics
ISBN:9780840073297
Author: Butkov
Students can place a special order at the information counter at any campus and online.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students who cannot write their exam during the course's scheduled exam time must request accommodation from their instructor in writing, clearly stating the reason for this request, before the end of the first week of classes.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS