Rana X. Adhikari

Ph 106 abc. Topics in Classical Physics. 9 units (4-0-5); first, second, third terms, 2026-27. Prerequisites: Ph 2 ab or Ph 12 abc, Ma 2. An intermediate course in the application of basic principles of classical physics to a wide variety of subjects. Ph 106 a will be devoted to mechanics, including Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of mechanics, small oscillations and normal modes, central forces, and rigid-body motion. Ph 106 b will be devoted to fundamentals of electrostatics and magnetostatics, including boundary-value problems, multipole expansions, and electrostatics and magnetostatics in matter. Ph106 c will cover electrodynamics, including conservation laws, potential theory, electromagnetic waves, and radiation as well as the relationship between special relativity and electrodynamics.
Instructors: Chatziioannou, Most, Adhikari

Ph 2 abc. Waves, Quantum Mechanics, and Statistical Physics. 9 units (3-0-6); first, second, third terms, 2026-27. Prerequisites: Ph 1 abc, Ma 1 abc. An introduction to several areas of physics including applications in modern science and engineering. Topics include discrete and continuous oscillatory systems, wave mechanics, applications in telecommunications and other areas (first term); foundational quantum concepts, the quantum harmonic oscillator, the Hydrogen atom, applications in optical and semiconductor systems (second term); heat engines, thermodynamic laws, statistical systems and their relationship with the arrow of time, including applications in energy technology and other areas. There will be an optional demo lab participation (third term). Although best taken in sequence, the three terms can be taken independently.
Instructors: McCuller, Adhikari