Studying online

There are now 3 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Units available in Online Restricted mode have been adapted for online study only for those students who require the unit to complete their studies and who are unable to attend campus owing to exceptional circumstances beyond their control. To be enrolled in a unit in Online Restricted mode, students should contact their Student Advising Office through askUWA

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The content of this unit introduces and develops the foundations and interpretations of quantum theory and relativity. Quantum theory explains the world at the smallest scales, while relativity explains the relationships between space, time and matter. Both theories continue to be experimentally verified with extraordinary precision, and they are central to the on-going technological revolution that humankind is creating. Despite the phenomenal power of these theories, their predictions are at odds with our everyday experience of the world, and their deeper interpretations are still debated. In this unit students are introduced to the foundations and interpretations of these theories, with reference to a range of applications and physical contexts.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2023UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) analyse the concepts and physical principles involved in the foundations of quantum mechanics; (2) communicate ideas, both orally and written, relating to the foundations of quantum mechanics ; (3) communicate ideas, both orally and written, relating to the foundations of relativity ; (4) execute an experiment relevant to physics; (5) analyse the concepts and physical principles involved in the foundations of relativity; and (6) analyse the results of an experiment relevant to physics.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) mid-semester tests and assignments; (2) laboratory; and (3) final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Jingbo Wang
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
PHYS1021 Applied Physics A or equivalent
Contact hours
Lectures: 3-hours per week
Laboratory: 6 x 3 hours
Practical Classes: 1-hour per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.