Teacher(s)
Language
French
Prerequisites
This course assumes acquired the notions of mathematics and physics such as taught in the courses LEPL1101, LEPL1102, LEPL1105 , LEPL1201 et LEPL1202
Main themes
Two topics are covered:
- The course deals with wave physics, with a special emphasis on electromagnetic waves. It starts by writing Maxwell's equations, followed by a derivation of the wave equation from Maxwell's equations or from classical mechanics, and discusses its general solutions. The characteristics of simple waves are presented (frequency, wavelength, Doppler effect, polarisation,...). The behaviour of waves at the interface between two systems is then studied (Snell's and Fresnel's equations). Interference phenomena, including diffraction, are presented for local point and extended sources. Standing waves are then considered, as well as wave packets. The generation of electromagnetic waves is finally discussed (antennas and oscillating dipoles).
- The second part of the course is an introduction to quantum physics: based on the notion of waves, it seeks to show the continuity and radical novelty of quantum physics compared to classical physics. It presents the limits of classical physics and the answer brought by quantum physics (wave-particle duality, Heisenberg uncertainty principle, Schrödinger equation), based on the concepts seen in the first part. It shows the interest of quantum physics in solving simple problems, and ends with a brief justification of the properties of atoms (hydrogen atom), providing a link to the notion of orbital necessary to understand chemistry and that of band structure used in solid-state physics.
Content
Waves
1.1. Displacement current' integrated approach of electromagnetism
1.2. Maxwell's equations and the wave equation
1.3. Solutions to the wave equation; mechanical waves
1.4. Polarization; reflection et refraction
1.5. Interferences
1.6. Diffraction
1.7. Standing waves and wave packets
1.8. Electromagnetic radiation and antennas
Quantum Physics
2.1 Wave-particle duality, Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle
2.2 Schrödinger's equation and wave function
2.3. Quantum particles, potential wells and the tunneling effect
2.4. Hydrogen atom model and crystal band structure
This teaching unit also tackles issues linked to sustainable development and transition during a problem-based learning session (linked to the recovery of solar energy via the calculation of solar power density on earth), as well as during the last course of the first part, where the issue of electromagnetic radiation is tackled (definition of field levels, comparison with Belgian legislation on mobile phone networks, etc.).
1.1. Displacement current' integrated approach of electromagnetism
1.2. Maxwell's equations and the wave equation
1.3. Solutions to the wave equation; mechanical waves
1.4. Polarization; reflection et refraction
1.5. Interferences
1.6. Diffraction
1.7. Standing waves and wave packets
1.8. Electromagnetic radiation and antennas
Quantum Physics
2.1 Wave-particle duality, Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle
2.2 Schrödinger's equation and wave function
2.3. Quantum particles, potential wells and the tunneling effect
2.4. Hydrogen atom model and crystal band structure
This teaching unit also tackles issues linked to sustainable development and transition during a problem-based learning session (linked to the recovery of solar energy via the calculation of solar power density on earth), as well as during the last course of the first part, where the issue of electromagnetic radiation is tackled (definition of field levels, comparison with Belgian legislation on mobile phone networks, etc.).
Teaching methods
Lectures (CM).
Learning based on exercises (APE), problems (APP) or laboratory (LABO) work by groups of students.
Learning based on exercises (APE), problems (APP) or laboratory (LABO) work by groups of students.
Evaluation methods
Evaluation is based upon:
- a written exam at the end of the quadrimester (students are provided for the exam with a reference formula sheet available for download on the course website)
- the mandatory participation to the laboratories (1 point penalty for each non-justified absence)
- possibly, a mid-quadrimester test (in any case, non mandatory and non certificative).
Online resources
Faculty or entity
Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)
Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Bachelor in Engineering : Architecture
