Physics 499O
Special Problems in
Physics: A Topical Introduction to Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics
Spring 2012
Class Hours: Tuesday and Thursday 1:30 PM to
2:45 PM
Room: Physics 1304
Instructors: Luis A. Orozco, CSS 2203,
5-9740, lorozco at umd.edu
Steven L.
Rolston, CSS
Course Description:
This course is an introduction to Atomic Molecular and Optical
Physics, with a topical emphasis on modern developments on the field, such as
precision spectroscopy, trapping and cooling of atoms, ultra-cold gases, and
frequency metrology.
Prerequisites:
First course of Quantum Mechanics PHY 401 or approval of the
instructor.
Textbook: There will be no required textbook. If you are registered in the course you have access to the Blackboard page at
Course Objectives and expected outcomes:
The purpose of this course is to expose students to aspects
of modern research in Atomic
Molecular and Optical Physics – it is not to be a
complete survey of either field, but will instead cover selected topics and
methods. The center concept will be coherence and its counterpart, decoherence.
How atomic, molecular and optical coherence has enabled atomic clocks,
gravitational experiments (LIGO), and quantum information. The format will be
lecture-based, with some homework and practice in reading, evaluating and
writing scientific papers, and emphasis on design of precision measurements and
null tests. You will have to give a short presentation at the end.
Grading Scheme:
Writing assignments and oral
presentations: 60%
Class participation:
40%