Download B.Sc. in Physics - Masinde Muliro University of Science and

BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
PROGRAMME FOR
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICS
PHYSICS DEPARTMENT
Reviewed 2013
© Department of Physics MMUST
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICS
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The department of Physics offers a Bachelor of Science in Physics. This is an instructional programme that
provides classroom, laboratory and field experience in Physics. In this programme, students have to take
Physics and Physics related courses as well as non-physics courses which have been appropriately selected to
ensure sound understanding of Physics and its related fields. The programme is sufficiently flexible to allow
and encourage students to develop interests in relevant fields, which are specifically oriented to address certain
key requirements in the society and fit in the overall pattern of employment of Physics graduates around the
world. The programme is tailored to include what is universally perceived to be fundamental Physics as well as
suitably specialized fields of study dictated by contemporary technological and societal needs.
2.0 Course Objectives
2.1 General Objective
The general objective is to produce a graduate with basic and relevant knowledge in Physics, having refined
and enhanced skills in preparation for the societal challenges associated with the interpretation and
implementation of policies related to Physics.
2.2 Specific Objectives
2.2.1 To promote and develop graduates who have a clear understanding of scientific knowledge, values and
skills hence qualifying them to be strong policy practitioners.
2.2.2 To prepare graduates who will competently undertake research, consultancy, development and
extension work in Physics and its related fields.
2.2.3 To prepare graduates who will have positive and responsive attitudes, initiatives and creative thinking
oriented to the world of scientific work.
2.2.4 To produce graduates who will meet the increasing demand of trained personnel in organizations and
institutions engaged in Physics related work.
2.2.5 To inculcate in the student a consciousness the needs and aspirations of the society and augment the
sense of responsibility towards the same.
2.2.6 To instill into the students an appreciation of the necessity and desire to continue to learn both formally
and informally.
2.2.7 To produce graduates who will competently undertake postgraduate work in Physics and its related
fields.
2.2.8 To provide an enabling environment for students to capture, process and disseminate information with
respect to the acquired Knowledge and skills.
3.0 Duration of Programme
The programme shall normally take four academic years.
4.0 Admission Requirements
The common university regulations of admission shall normally apply.
In addition, candidates MUST have passed in Physics/Physical Sciences with a minimum grade of B in the
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or its equivalent with a minimum score of grade C+ in
English and Mathematics.
5.0 Examinations
The common University Examination Regulations shall apply. The weighting for each course is as follows;
5.1 Theory Courses: (a) Continuous assessment of normally three tests (30%), (b) End of semester
examination - a written paper of normally 3 hours duration. (70%).
5.2 Laboratory based Courses: (a) Continuous assessment tests (20%), (b) Laboratory exercises (10%),
(c). End of semester examination - a written paper of normally 3 hours duration (70%).
5.3 Seminar Courses: (a) Continuous assessment based on oral presentation of at least three seminars
(50%), (b) Evaluation of a written report (50%).
5.4 Research Project: (a) Assessment on the candidate's work and on the submitted Project Report (70%),
(b) Oral examination (30%). The external examiner shall be involved in the assessment of the submitted
report and may participate in the oral examination.
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
5.5 Technical drawing: (a) Continuous Assessment tests (60%), (b) End of Semester Examination – a
written paper normally taking 3 hours duration (40%).
5.6 Workshop practice: (a) Workshop practical (60%) (b) Brief practical report (40%)
5.7 Industrial attachment: (a) Field/logbook assessment (70%) (b) Attachment report (30%)
5.8 Grading System and Degree Classification: The general University regulations shall
apply.
6.0 Course Structure
6.1 The department shall normally offer the general option of the BSc. programme every year. Additionally,
specialized options will be offered at the discretion of the department.
6.2 Year one covers basic topics in Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, Light, Waves, Sound, Heat and
Modern Physics. Students will have to take all the 6 units in Physics offered by the department as well as
other courses as approved by senate.
6.3 Year two is basically a deeper study of the courses introduced at the first year level in Electricity and
Magnetism, Vibration and Waves, Mechanics and Heat, Electronics, Optics and Modern Physics.
Students opting to major in any areas of Physics have to register for the 21 units in Physics in addition to
other courses as approved by senate.
6.4 The third and fourth years are devoted to an intensive study of Theoretical and Experimental
Physics courses and allow for a certain amount of specialized option courses in Materials Science,
Theoretical Physics, Electronics and Renewable Energy together with the following core courses;
Mathematical Physics, Thermodynamics, Solid State Physics, Electromagnetism, Quantum
Mechanics, Classical Mechanics, Computational Techniques in Physics, Technical Drawing and
Workshop Practice, Statistical Mechanics and the Research Project.
6.5 Seminar Courses: Topics which are not listed in the main Theoretical Physics curriculum or set of
elective courses may be chosen for this seminar. During week one of the semester the student and the
supervisor will agree on the topics. The student will make at least two presentations of about 40
minutes’ duration during the semester. A written report has to be presented to the tutor a week before the
presentation dates. At least three lecturers of the department will compose the Presentation examination
board. It is obligatory for the fourth year students to participate in the Departmental Seminars,
Workshops and Conferences.
6.6 Industrial attachment/Workshop practice: Industrial attachment and Workshop practice are essential
parts of this programme.
6.7 Course Coding: The course codes have three letters followed by three digits. For all Physics courses,
the first letter denotes the faculty under which the course is offered. The last two letters denotes the
discipline under which the course is offered. The first digit indicates the year of study. The second
digit denotes the nature of the course (.i.e. digit 1 is for core courses and any other for a certain
specialized field). In third and fourth year courses, second digit denotes the following;
2 - Materials science option
3 - Theoretical Physics option
4 - Electronics option
5 - Renewable Energy option
6 - Any other field of physics
8- Industrial/Field attachment
9 - Research and dissertation
e.g. SPH 342 denotes a third year course with a bias in electronics within Physics discipline offered in the
Faculty of Science. The third digit indicates the serial number of the course in a given specialized field or
category. For elective courses, letter E is attached at the end of the code e.g. SPH 436E.
7.0 Definition of Unit:
1 lecture hour per week per semester = 1 unit
2 Tutorial hours per week per semester = 1 unit
3 Hours of laboratory work per week per semester = 1 unit
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
YEAR 1 SEMESTER I
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
ECC 101: Scientific and Technical Communication Skills
IRD 103 : Development Concepts and applications
SCH 100: Fundamentals of Chemistry I
SPH 110: Fundamentals of Physics I
CSC 110: Fundamentals of Computing
CSC 111: Introduction to Programming
MAT 101: Foundations of Mathematics I
MAT 121: Calculus I
STA 141: Introduction to Statistics
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
27
YEAR I SEMESTER II
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
CDM 100: HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management
ESM 104: Quantitative Skills II
SCH 101: Fundamentals of Chemistry II
SPH 111: Fundamentals of Physics II
CSC 121: Procedural Programming
MAT 102: Foundations of Mathematics II
MAT 122: Elementary Applied Mathematics
STA 142: Introduction to Probability
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
24
YEAR 2 SEMESTER I
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 210: Electricity and Magnetism
SPH 211: Vibrations and Waves
SPH 212: Classical Mechanics I
STA 241: Statistics & Probability
MAT 201: Linear Algebra
MAT 203: Vector Analysis I
MAT 221: Calculus II
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
21
YEAR 2 SEMESTER II
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
UNITS
4
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
SPH 213: Physics, Society and Development
SPH 214: Physical Optics
SPH 215: Modern Physics
SPH 216: Electronics I
MAT 202: Linear Algebra II
MAT 224: Analytical Geometry
STA 242: Probability and Distribution models
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
21
YEAR 3 SEMESTER I
COURSE CODE AND TITLE ( CORE COURSES)
SPH 310: Mathematical Physics I
SPH 311: Solid State Physics I
SPH 312: Classical Mechanics II
MAT 321: Ordinary Differential Equations I
UNITS
3
3
3
3
AND
OPTION I: GENERAL PHYSICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 320: Introduction to Materials Science
SPH 340: Electronics II
UNITS
3
3
and any TWO of
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
MAT 305: Group Theory
MAT 323: Numerical Analysis I
MAT 325: Fluid Mechanics I
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION II: MATERIAL SCIENCE
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 320: Introduction to Materials Science
SPH 321: Materials Testing and Evaluation
SPH 322: Solidification and Working
5
UNITS
3
3
3
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
and any ONE of
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
MAT 305: Group Theory
MAT 323: Numerical Analysis I
MAT 325: Fluid Mechanics I
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION III: THEORETICAL PHYSICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 330: Atomic and Nuclear Physics
SPH 331: Astronomy and Astrophysics
SPH 332: Central forces and moving co-ordinates
UNITS
3
3
3
and any ONE of
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
MAT 305: Group Theory
MAT 323: Numerical Analysis I
MAT 325: Fluid Mechanics I
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION IV: ELECTRONICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 340: Electronics II
SPH 341: Digital Electronics
SPH 342: Physics of Semiconductors I
UNITS
3
3
3
and any ONE of
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
MAT 305: Group Theory
MAT 323: Numerical Analysis I
MAT 325: Fluid Mechanics I
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
6
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
OPTION V: RENEWABLE ENERGY
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 350: Photovoltaics I
SPH 351: Solar Energy Materials and Processes
SPH 352: Biomass Energy
UNITS
3
3
3
and any ONE of
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
MAT 305: Group Theory
MAT 323: Numerical Analysis I
MAT 325: Fluid Mechanics I
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
YEAR 3 SEMESTER 2
COURSE CODE AND TITLE ( CORE COURSES)
SPH 313: Quantum Mechanics I
SPH 314: Electromagnetism
SPH 315: Mathematical Physics II
MAT 222: Calculus III
MAT 304: Complex Analysis I
AND
UNITS
3
3
3
3
3
OPTION I: GENERAL PHYSICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 344: Microwaves
UNITS
3
and ANY ONE of
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
MAT 322: Operations Research I
MAT 324: Numerical Analysis II
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
21
OR
OPTION II: MATERIALS SCIENCE
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
UNITS
7
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
SPH 323: Glass Cement and Concrete
SPH 324: Structural Changes
SPH 325: The Steels
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION III: THEORETICAL PHYSICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 333: Sub-Atomic and Plasma Physics
SPH 334: Low Temperature Physics I
SPH 335: Systems of Particles
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION IV: ELECTRONICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 343: Electronics III
SPH 344: Microwaves
SPH 345: Physics of Semiconductors II
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION V: RENEWABLE ENERGY
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 353: Photovoltaics II
SPH 354: Solar Thermal Energy
SPH 355: Wind Energy Systems and Technology
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
YEAR 4 SEMESTER I
COURSE CODE AND TITLE ( CORE COURSES)
SPH 410: Mathematical Physics III
SPH 411: Computational Techniques in Physics
SPH 412: Technical Drawing
SPH 413: Workshop Practice
SPH 490: Research Proposal
8
UNITS
3
3
1
2
2
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
MAT 421: Partial Differential Equations I
3
AND
OPTION I: GENERAL OPTION
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 423: Solid State Physics II
UNITS
3
AND
Any TWO relevant ELECTIVES
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
6
23
OR
OPTION II: MATERIALS SCIENCE
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 420: The Ceramics
SPH 421: Polymers I
SPH 423: Solid State Physics II
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNIT
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION III: THEORETICAL PHYSICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 430: Rigid Bodies
SPH 431: Superconductivity
SPH 432: Low Temperature Physics II
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
OR
OPTION IV: ELECTRONICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 440: Radio Communication
SPH 441: Digital Systems Design
SPH 442: Microprocessor
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
9
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
OR
OPTION V: RENEWABLE ENERGY
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 450: Photovoltaic Systems and Technology
SPH 451: Geothermal Energy
SPH 452: Hydro Energy Systems
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
23
ELECTIVE COURSES
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 426E: Materials Science & Polymer Physics
SPH 436E: Seminar In Theoretical Physics
SPH 446E: Advanced radio Communication
SPH 447E: Special Circuits
SPH 448E: Troubleshooting Digital Circuits
UNITS
3
3
3
3
3
YEAR 4 SEMESTER II
COURSE CODE AND TITLE ( CORE COURSES)
SPH 414: Quantum Mechanics II
SPH 415: Thermodynamics
SPH 416: Statistical Mechanics
SPH 499: Research and Dissertation
UNITS
3
3
3
3
AND
OPTION I: GENERAL PHYSICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 443: Measurements and Instrumentation
And any THREE relevant ELECTIVES
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
9
24
OR
OPTION II: MATERIALS SCIENCE
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
UNITS
10
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
SPH 422: Polymers II
SPH 424: Composites
SPH 425: Thermodynamics and Selection of Materials
SPH 480: Industrial and Field Attachment
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
3
3
3
4
25
OR
OPTION III: THEORETICAL PHYSICS
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 433: Elementary Theory of Scattering
SPH 435: Computational Condensed Matter Physics
MAT 428: Mathematical Modeling
And any ONE relevant ELECTIVE
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
3
24
OR
OPTION IV: ELECTRONIC
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 443: Measurements and Instrumentation
SPH 444: Optoelectronics Devices
SPH 445: Microprocessor Interfacing
SPH 480: Industrial and Field Attachment
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
4
25
OR
OPTION V: RENEWABLE ENERGY
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 453: Ocean energy Systems and Technology
SPH 454: Energy Systems and Management
SPH 455: Energy Economic and Policy
SPH 480: Industrial and Field Attachment
TOTAL NUMBER OF UNITS
UNITS
3
3
3
4
25
ELECTIVE COURSES
COURSE CODE AND TITLE
SPH 456E: Solar Energy Physics
UNITS
3
11
BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
SPH 457E: Electronic Circuits and Microprocessors
SPH 458E: Renewable Sources of Energy
SPH 460E: Geophysics
SPH 461E: Vacuum Techniques
SPH 463E: Introduction to Laser Physics
SPH 464E: Fourier Optics
3
3
3
3
3
3
9.0 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
SPH 110: FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICS I
Mechanics and Properties of Matter: Vectors, Rectilinear motion, Newton's laws of motion and their
applications, Friction and its applications, Composition and resolution of forces, Uniform circular
motion, Newton's law of gravitation, Simple harmonic motion, Conservation of energy and
momentum, Flow of liquids, Viscosity, Surface tension, Elasticity, Elastic constants and their
importance. Thermal physics: Expansion of solids, liquids and gases, Scales of temperature and
thermometers, Mechanisms of heat transfer, Perfect gas-absolute temperature, Zeroth law, Specific
heat capacities of gases at constant pressure and volume, Kinetic theory of gases-derivation of the
relation for pressure. Sound: Equation of wave motion, Velocity of sound in solids and fluids,
Standing waves on strings and pipes, Doppler Effect, beats, ultrasound.
SPH 111: FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICS II
Electricity and magnetism: Properties of magnetic materials and their uses; Direct and alternating
current; Behaviour and measurement of resistance; inductance and capacitance. Cells: Electrical
and chemical effects; electrolysis; construction of lead acid and alkaline cells; charging of Battery.
Transistors and diodes: Diode and rectification of current; Transistor characteristics and application;
Working principle and application of the Cathode Ray Oscilloscope. Optics: Review of mirrors and
lenses; Defects in lenses; Types of microscopes and telescopes; Particle and wave theories of light;
Phenomena and application of interference, diffraction and polarisation of light. Modern physics:
Bohr's theory and Heisenberg's quantum concept; Explanation of atomic spectra; X-rays; Structure
of the nucleus; Natural and artificial radioactivity; Applications of radioactivity; Introduction to Nuclear
fission, fusion and the nuclear reactor.
SPH 210: ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM
Electric Field and Current: Coulomb's law, Electric field, Electric dipole, Electric Field in Conductors
and Dielectrics, Gauss's law for electric field, Symmetric Charge Distribution, Electric potential, The
Gradient of potential, Potential difference, Divergence and Curl, Capacitance, Electric energy,
Forces and Torques, Combination of capacitors, Dielectrics and Polarization, Dipole moment,
Permittivity, Electric Displacement; Boundary relationships and continuity, Current and Circuits,
Resistivity, Series and Parallel resistors, Kirchhoff's laws, Conductivity. Magnetic Field and Current:
Force between Current Elements, Properties of magnetic Fields, Bio-Savart law, Static magnetic
field of Steady Current, The Ampere, Current Carrying loop, Magnetic flux, the torque, The Solenoid,
Maxwell's first Curl Equation.
SPH 211: VIBRATIONS AND WAVES
Simple harmonic oscillation: Superposition of simple harmonic motions in one dimension and in two
perpendicular directions. Damped oscillations: Log-decrement of Oscillations, Heavy damping;
Critical damping and Light damping. Forced oscillations: Transient and steady state behaviour and
resonant oscillations. Coupled Oscillation: Modes of vibrations, normal modes co-ordinates and
frequencies, degree of freedom. Waves: Reflection and Transmission of waves, Impedance
matching, Waves on a string, characteristic impedance, Standing waves, Standing wave ratio,
Phase and Group velocity, Longitudinal waves in gases and solids, Reflection and Transmission of
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
sound waves, Doppler effect, Simple concept of interference of waves. Electromagnetic waves:
Properties of electromagnetic waves.
SPH 212: CLASSICAL MECHANICS I
Mechanics: Fundamental units and Dimension analysis, Kinematics in one and two dimensions,
Newton's Laws and particle dynamics, Work and Energy, Conservation of energy and linear
momentum, Collisions, Gravitation, Fluid statics and dynamics. Rigid body dynamics: Rotational
kinematics, Rotational dynamics, Rigid bodies, Moment of inertia (MI) and related theorems,
Calculation of (MI) for a few cases, Rotational Kinetic energy, The fly-wheel. Heat:Heat as a form of
energy, Review of temperature, thermal equilibrium, Zeroth law, First law of thermodynamics,
Quasi- static processes, work and heat, internal energy. Introduction to kinetic theory.
SPH 213: PHYSICS, SOCIETY AND DEVELOPMENT
The roles of government: funding education, Funding basic research, Customers of high-tech
products e.g for military and agriculture, Fiscal policies in Research and development (R & D) and
the jua kali sector, Contacts/mobility of personnel and ideas (consultancy) between research and
high tech. The roles of industry: Bridging the gap between basic research and applied research,
Examples of applied research, Influence of wars (hot and cold wars) to research, The differences
between research at the University level and the Cooperate level. The roles of Centres of
excellence: National Science foundation NSF, American Institute of Physics AIP, American
Physical Society APS, International Center of Theoretical Physics ICTP, European Physical Society
EPS, International Atomic Energy Agency, International Center for Science and High Technology
ICS. Strengthening the study of Physics: Relevance of Physics to the society, Promoting physics
education.
SPH 214: PHYSICAL OPTICS
The wave equation and properties: The wave equation and its solutions, Properties of waves,
wavefront, The electromagnetic spectrum, Light sources (thermionic and atomic).Characteristics of
Light: Polarisation, Polarises, Coherence, Coherence length interference. Atomic theory of the
refractive index: Maxwell's equations in matter - Polarisation of matter, Absorption and Dispersion
functions. Geometrical Optics: Reflection and transmission angles and coefficients, Brewster Angle,
Principle of ray tracing, Illustrations. Diffraction: General Kirchhoff - Sommerfield theory, Fresnel and
Fraunhofer approximations and their application in slit and edge diffraction patterns. Lasers:
Einstein's constants, Spontaneous and stimulated emissions, Laser principle, Properties of laser
light and their applications.
SPH 215:MODERN PHYSICS
Relativity: Michelson-Morley experiment, Postulates of special theory of relativity, Lorentz
transformations, Relativistic momentum and energy, Mass-energy relation, Energy and momentum
of light. Black body radiation: Stefan's-Boltzman law, Wien's displacement law, Rayleigh-Jeans
distribution, Planck's distribution. Atomic Physics Phenomena: Atomic nature of matter, Photons,
Atomic Models, Photoelectric effect, X-ray diffraction, Compton effect, Emission and absorption
spectra, Bohr's theory of the hydrogen atom, Principal quantum numbers, Pauli exclusion principle,
Scattering of alpha particles, Atomic models. Modern Physics Concepts: Wave-particle duality;
Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, De Broglie waves. Introduction to nuclear structure: Nuclear
forces, Binding energy, Radioactivity, Nuclear fission and fusion, Elementary particles.
SPH 216: ELECTRONICS I
Electronics Circuit: Circuit elements, Voltage and Current Sources, Nodal analysis, Mesh analysis,
Superposition theorem, Thevenin's theorem, Norton's theorem. Semiconductor Theory:
Classification of electrical materials, Semiconductors, Intrinsic and extrinsic semiconductors. Diodes
and Applications: p.n. Junction, Rectifier diodes, rectification circuits and signal shaping circuit
(clipping and clamping), Zener diode, Light emitting diode; Photoconductive diode, Photoreceptive
diode. Transistors: B.J.T construction and operation, Characteristic, Transistor biasing (CE, CB, CC),
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BSc in Physics
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Load line, Q-point, Transistor a.c. equivalent circuits. Small signal amplifies: Current, Voltage and
Power gain input and output impedance.
SPH 310: MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS I
The vector field and properties of vectors: The gradient, Divergence, Curland Laplacian
Operators, Solenoidal, Non solenoidal, Rotational and irrotational vectors, Gauss and Stoke's
theorems. Orthogonal co-ordinate systems: Generalized coordinate systems, Specific orthogonal
Coordinate systems namely Cartesian, Polar, Cylindrical and spherical,
The gradient,
Divergence, Curl and Laplacian operators in these coordinate systems. Differential equations:
Equations used in physics, namely Laplace, Poisson - HelmhoHz and Schrodinger, Methods of
solving them using separation of variables integral solutions Integral transforms and numerical
methods, The Fourier series, Fourier integral theorem, The Fourier and Laplace integral
transforms, Application of integral transforms in solving differential equations.
SPH 311: SOLID STATE PHYSICS 1
Crystal Structure: Crystalline and amorphous solids, Lattice and basic unit cell, Wigner - Seitz cell,
Bravais lattices, Simple cubic, bcc (body centred cubic), fcc (face centred cubic) structures; Miller
indices. Crystal Diffraction: Bragg's diffraction law; Incident beams of x-rays, electrons and neutrons,
Structure determination, Reciprocal lattice and Brillouin Zone; Experimental methods, Crystals of
inert gases, Ionic crystals, Covalent crystals and Metals. Lattice Vibrations: Vibrations of
monoatomic and diatomic lattice, Phonon dispersion, Lattice heat capacity and phonon density of
states, Einstein's and Debye's models, Free electron gas: Effect of temperature on the Fermi-Dirac
distribution, Free electron gas in three dimensions, Heat capacity, Electrical and thermal
conductivities, Weidman-Franz law, Hall effect.Band Theory of solids: Inadequacies of free electron
theory, Bloch theorem, Kronig - Penney model, Allowed and forbidden bands, Effective mass of an
electron in a band, Distinction between metals, insulators and intrinsic semiconductors, The concept
of holes.
SPH 312: CLASSICAL MECHANICS II
Frames of reference: Inertial and non-inertial frames, Relative velocity, Galilean transformations.
Work-energy theorem: Conservative force, Potential energy, Conservation of linear momentum,
Centre of mass, Centre of mass frame of reference, Torque, Conservation of angular momentum,
Collision of two particles, The rocket example. Gravitational potential and Field: Brief review of
Newton's law of gravitation, Potential energy of two or more masses, thin spherical shell and
spheres, Central forces, Two-body force problem and reduction to one - body problem. The
equations of motion: Differential equation for the orbit, Inverse square law of force, Kepler's laws,
Limitations of Newton's laws. Lagrangian Mechanics: Generalized coordinates, Holonomic systems,
Hamilton's principle, and Lagrange’s equations.
SPH 313: QUANTUM MECHANICS I
Need for quantum mechanics: The inadequacies of classical mechanics and need of quantum
mechanics. Matter waves: Matter waves and their statistical interpretation, Wave functions, State
functions and their basic property eg, Time-dependent Schrödinger equation and the operators:
Superposition principle, Physical interpretation of wave function and probability current density,
Expectation values, Schwartz inequality and proof of uncertainty principle, Wave packets, Linear
operators, Eigen functions, Eigenvalues, Orthogonal systems, Expansion in eigenfunction and
completeness relation, Hermitian operators, Simultaneous eigen functions, Commutators, Parity
operator, Commutation rule, Equation of motion. Time independent Schrödinger equation: The
concept of stationary states, Problems in one dimension- (i) Zero potential (the free particle case),
(ii) Infinite square well potential (particle in a box), (iii) Potential step (reflectance and transmittance),
(iv) potential barrier, (v) Rectangular potential well (vi) Periodic potential, and (vii) Linear harmonic
oscillator. The Schrödinger equation for spherically symmetric potential: Angular momentum
operators, The hydrogen atom.
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
SPH 314: ELECTROMAGNETISM
Magnetic Field of Ferromagnetic Materials: Magnetic Dipoles, Loops; Magnetization, The magnetic
vectors B, H and M, Magnetic Energy density, Boundary relations. Time - varying electric and
magnetic fields: Faraday's law, Lenz's law, Induction, Stoke's theorem, Inductance, Self and mutual
inductance, Introduction to Eddy current and its application in non-destructive testing; Boundary
relations. Maxwell's equations: Circuit and Field theory; Maxwell's Equations in Free Space,
Harmonically varying fields. Waves and transmission lines: Wave equation in free space and in
transmission line, Characteristic impedance, Travelling waves and standing waves, Conductors and
dielectrics, Lossy lines, Power and energy, Poynting Vector.
SPH 315: MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS II
Functions of a complex variable: Summary of complex algebra, Complex differentiation and the
Cauchy - Reimann equations, Complex integration and Cauchy's integral theorem, Cauchy
integral formula, The Laurent series and the residue theories, Applications of the residue
theorem in evaluating integrals and series. Special functions: Legendre, Hermite, Bessel,
gamma, Beta and Green's functions; Application of these functions solving physics problems.
SPH 320: INTRODUCTION TO MATERIALS SCIENCE
Classification of Materials: Methods of classifying materials e.g. metals, polymers, hard, soft,
conductors etc. Atomic properties: Bond types and associated properties, Lattice energy
calculations, Crystalline and amorphous materials, Important crystal structures. Mechanical
properties: Plastic deformation, Mechanism of plastic flow, Tensile fracture, Ductile fracture,
Brittle failure, Fatigue failure, creep failure. Thermal properties: Thermal energy, Heat capacity,
Expansivity, conductivity, Thermoelectric effects. Magnetic Materials:
Paramagnets,
Ferromagnets, Dielectrics: Piezoelectrics, Ferroelectrics. Optical properties: Birefringence,
Electrical properties: Conductivity, Resistivity, Insulators, Semiconductors.
SPH 321: MATERIALS TESTING AND EVALUATION
Nondestructive Testing of Materials: Liquid Penetrant Inspection, Magnetic Particle Inspection,
Electrical Test Methods (Eddy Current Testing), Ultrasonic Testing, Radiography, Other
Nondestructive Inspection Techniques: Optical inspection probes, Laser induced ultrasonic,
Acoustic emission, Time of flight diffraction, Thermographs.
SPH 322: SOLIDIFICATION AND WORKING
Cold working: Stress- strain curve, Dislocation Multiplication, Percentage cold worked metals,
Residual Stress, Characteristics of cold working. Annealing: Three stages of annealing, Control of
annealing, Influence of annealing on material processing. Hot working: Characteristics of the Hotworking process, Deformation bonding processes, Deformation Bonding processes, superplastic
forming. Solidification:
Nucleation, Growth, Solidification time, Cooling curves, Casting,
Solidification defects, Control of casting structure, Solidification and metal joining.
SPH 323: GLASS, CEMENT AND CONCRETE
Glass products: Flat glass, Container glass, Fibre glass, Glass coatings, Glass forming
processes. Composition and structure of glass: Silicate glasses, Nonsiliceons glasses. Physical
properties of glass: Viscosity, Mechanical properties, Optical properties, Electrical behaviour.
Engineered glasses: Tempered glass, Devitrified glass, optically functional glasses. Aggregates:
Types, Quality, Size distribution. Cements: Chemistry of cement, Portland cement, Manufacture,
High-strength Cements. Concrete: Concrete mixes, Air entrainment, Properties of concrete.
Asphalt concrete: Asphalt, Modified asphalt, asphalt-bounded aggregates. Structural
requirements of concretes: ASTM specifications, Strength, Water absorption, Average value
requirements. Tests for Concrete: Compressional, Toughness, Hardness, Water absorption,
Creep.
SPH 324:STRUCTURAL CHANGES
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
Case studies in phase diagrams: Choosing soft solders, Pure Silicon for Microchips, Making
bubble-free ice. Structural change: Driving force of structural change, Solidification, Solid-state,
Precipitate coarsening, Grain growth, Recrystallization. Diffusive transformations: Peaking of
transformation rates, Opposition to the driving force, Thermal activation, Effect of Latent heat,
Effect of Diffusion. Nucleation: Nucleation in liquids and solids, Solid catalysts, Nucleation in
plants, Vapour trails, Bubble chambers and caramel. Displacive transformations: Effect of rapid
cooling, Displacive or shear transformations at sound speed. Case studies in phase
transformation: Artificial rain-making, Fine-grained castings, Single crystals for semiconductors,
Amorphous metals.
SPH 325:THE STEELS
Light alloys: Comparison with steels, Strengthening them, Solution, age and work hardening,
Thermal Stability.Carbon steels: Structures produced by diffusive changes, Structures produced
by displacive changes, Quenching and tempering of steels, The TTT diagram. Alloy steels:
Hardenability of steels, Solution and precipitation strengthening, Corrosion resistance, Austenitic
steels. Case studies in steels: Welding steels together. Production, forming and joining of metals:
Casting, Plastic working,Control of grain size,Machining, Joining, Surface engineering.
SPH 330: ATOMIC AND NUCLEAR PHYSICS
Atomic structure: Atomic spectra, Hydrogen spectrum, X-ray spectra, Moseley relations,
Interpretation of X-ray spectra, Alkali-metals spectra, Fine structure, Electron spin.. Vector model of
the atom: Magnetic moments, Orbital spin, Space quantization, Spin-orbit coupling, Total angular
momentum, Vector coupling, LS and JJ coupling. Zeeman effect: Normal and anomalous Zeeman
effect, Lande's splitting factor, Zeeman splitting in high magnetic fields, Paschen-Back effect,
Hyperfine splitting, Stark effect. Nuclear structure: Nuclear models, Nuclear properties, Nuclear
reactions, Nuclear transformations, Radioactive decay; Alpha, beta & gamma decay theories,
Introduction to fission and fusion, Nuclear reactors. Elementary particles: Neutron absorption,
Cosmic rays,Pair production, Pair annihilation, Elementary particles. Nuclear instruments:
Introduction to nuclear instruments and experimental techniques.
SPH 331: ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS
The universe: The components and design. The Stars- without the telescope: The big dipper,
North circumpolar stars, Non-circumpolar stars, South circumpolar stars. Navigation: Latitude
parallels, Meridians, Celestial sphere, Parallels of declination, Hour circles, Effect of lattitude on
view of the sky. The stars-with the telescopes: Periodical observations with small telescopes, The
optics of refracting, reflecting, and mirror-lens telescopes, Great telescopes and their uses, The
radio telescope, Types of spectroscopes and spectra, Stellar spectrum. Physical properties of
stars: Temperature of stars, Stellar distances, Stellar sizes, Stellar masses and densities, Stellar
Spectra, H-- solar system, Basic planetary data. Inferior Planets: Mercury and Venus. Earth and
Moon: The Earth, The Moon. Ecclipses: The ecclipse of the sun and the moon. The superior
planets: Mars, Planetoids, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune,Pluto. Other heavenly bodies:
Comets, Meteorites, Artificial earth satellites. Home-built telescopes: Home-made refractor and
reflector, Mirror grinding.
SPH 332: CENTRAL FORCES AND MOVING COORDINATE SYSTEMS
Central Forces: Central force fields, Motion in a central field, Potential energy in a central field,
Conservation of energy, Determination of orbit from the central force and vice versa,Conic
sections, Ellipse, Parabola, Hyperbola; Attraction of spheres; Motion in an inverse square field.
Moving Coordinate Systems: Non-inertial coordinate systems; Rotating Coordinate Systems;
Derivative operators; Velocity and acceleration in moving systems; Coriolis and Centripetal
acceleration.
SPH 333: SUB-ATOMIC AND PLASMA PHYSICS
Particle interactions: Accelerators; Detectors, Observed particle Characteristics,
Particle
structure, Additive conservation laws, Isospin, P, C, and T; Electromagnetic, weak and strong
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MMU/PRO: 532001
interactions.The Plasma: Occurrence of plasma in nature, Single particle motion, Plasma as
fluids, Waves in plasmas, Diffusion, Resistivity, Equilibrium and stability, Kinematics theory of
plasma, Non-linear effects.
SPH 334: LOW TEMPERATURE PHYSICS I
Introduction: Significance of low temperatures, The third law of thermodynamics,Liquefaction of
gases, Solids at low temperatures, Liquid helium,Macroscopic quantization. Phonons: The model
of a solid at low temperatures,Phonon modes and propagation, Thermal properties, Lattice
anharmonicity, Scattering of photons, Solid helium- a quantum solid, Phonons and `disorder.
Electrons: Electrons in solids, Studies of Fermi Surfaces, Transport properties of metals,
Scattering of electrons in metals, Semiconductors and localization, Low dimension electron
system.
SPH 335: SYSTEMS OF PARTICLES
System of Particles: Discrete and Continuous, Density, Rigid and elastic bodies, Degrees of
freedom, Center of mass, Center of gravity, Momentum, motion of center of mass,Conservation
of momentum, Angular momentum, Total external torque, Relation between angular momentum
and total external torque, Conservation of angular momentum, Kinetic energy, Work, Potential
energy, Motion relative of Center of Mass Impulse, Constraints, Holonomic and Non-holonmic
Constrains, Virtual dispacement; Statics of a system of particles, Principle of virtual work,
Equilibrium in Conservative fields, Stability of equilibrium, D'Alembert's principle. Vibrating
systems: Vibrating systems of particles, problems involving changing mass, Rockets, Collisions of
particles,Continuous systems, The Vibrating String, Bonndary - Value problems, Fourier
Series,Convergence of Fourier series.
SPH 340: ELECTRONICS II
Transistors: Brief survey of FET, JFET and MOSFET construction and operation. Amplification:
Design characteristics, Hybrid equivalent circuits and parameters, gain of current, voltage and
power; input and output impedance. Classes of Amplifies: Class A, class B and class C amplifiers,
multistage amplifiers. Amplifier Frequency Response: Low and high frequency response; Effect of
coupling capacitors and internal capacitors, Miller theorem, Decibel unit, critical frequency, Voltage
gain and phase response (BODE PLOTS) for lag and lead network filters, Band-pass filters, Bandstop filters, Bandwidth.
SPH 341: DIGITAL ELECTRONICS
Number systems: Decimal, Binary, Hexadecimal, Binary coded decimal, Conversion from one
system to the other. Elementary logic: Boolean algebra, Logic gates, Logic symbols,Truth tables,
Output wave forms, Output expressions. Integrated logic networks: Structure and characteristics of
diode logic, Diode-transistor logic, Transistor-transistor logic, Complementary metal oxide
semiconductors, Fabrication of integrated logic networks, Digital Schmidt trigger, Multivibrator.
Combinatorial networks: Universality of NAND and NOR gates, Simplification of logic circuits using
Boolean theorems and K-maps. Sequential networks: Flip-flops, Application of flip-flops, Counters,
Shift registers, Application in parallel and serial transfer of information, Applications of decision
making circuits, Encoders, Decoders, Multiplexers, Demultiplexers, Visual displays. AnalogueDigital conversions: Digital-to-analogue, Analogue-to-digital.
SPH 342: PHYSICS OF SEMICONDUCTORS I
Energy bands: Energy bands, Carrier transport, Recombination, Injection level, Electric fields,
Diffusion. Fabrication processes: Wafer preparations, Epitaxial deposition, Oxidation, Masking and
photoprocessing, Impurity introduction and redistribution, Chemical vapour deposition, Metallization,
Non-silicon technologies: The p-n junction and metal-semiconductor junction diodes, Special
diodes, Light emitting diodes, Bipolar transistors and multi layer devices, Junction and metal-oxidesemiconductor field effect transistors, Charge transfer devices, Integrated devices. Negative
resistance devices: Tunnel, gun and avalanche diodes.
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MMU/PRO: 532001
SPH 343: ELECTRONICS III
Integrated circuits: IC generation, Integrated circuit fabrication, Form of operational amplifiers and
basic applications of the op-amps. Operational Amplifiers: Virtual earth concept, inverting (IV) and
non-inverting (NIV) inputs, Buffer amplifier. Feedback Amplifiers: Definition, types of feedback,
feedback concept, classification of feedback (i.e. voltage/current sampling and mixing). Negative
Feedback: Uses of negative feedback, the effect of NFB on the characteristic of the amplifier.
Oscillators: Definition of an oscillator, oscillation principles, positive feedback, condition for
oscillatory, start up conditions. Sinusoidal oscillators - Wein Bridge and Collpitt's and Hartly oscillator,
Non-sinusoidal oscillators - voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) Operational feedback: Integrating,
differential, adding and subtracting.
SPH 344: MICROWAVES
Propagation of microwaves: Theory of Hertizian dipole, Near field and far field distribution, Antena
analysis, Types of antenna, Propagation of microwaves through ionosphere, Effect of the earth’s
magnetic field, Faraday rotation. Guided waves: Plane twin wire, Coaxial cable transmission lines,
Stub matching of transmission lines, Smith chart, Propagation of TE and TM modes in hollow wave
guides, Detailed theory of rectangular wave guides, coupling of the waves to and from the wave
guides. Instruments: Cavity resonators, Klystrons, Microwave components and instruments.
SPH 345: PHYSICS OF SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES II
BJTs: Amplification and switching, fundamental of BJT operations, minority carrier distributions
and terminal currents, switching, secondary effects (drift in the base region, base narrowing,
avalanche breakdown, injection level, base resistor and emitter growding), heterojunction bipolar
transistors. FETs: The junction FET, the metal-semiconductor FET, MISFET. Semiconductor
lasers: Population inversion at a junction, emission spectra for p-n junction laser, heterojunction
lasers, materials for semiconductor lasers. P-n-p-n switching devices: Switching mechanisms,
semiconductor controlled rectifiers (SCR). Negative conductance microwave devices: Transition
time devices (the IMPATT diodes, the QWITT diodes, the TRAPATT diodes), The Gann effect an
related devices.
SPH 350: PHOTOVOLTAICS I
Solar radiation: Solar constant, Air mass, Spectral distribution of sunlight and ideal conversion
efficiency of solar cells. Optics of solar cells: Direct and indirect band semiconductors, Reflection,
Transmission and absorption, Electron absorption processes. Light Trapping: Randomizing
schemes, Geometrical light trapping, Two- and three-dimensional geometries, concentrated light.
Fundamental efficiency limits: Phonon-generated current limits, Open-circuit voltage limits, Low
injection conditions, Narrow base and high injection limits, Fill factor, Efficiency Limits, Nonconcentrating cells and concentrating cells, Material requirements, Potentials for exceeding limits.
Types of solar cells: p-n junction solar cells, Metal-insulator-semiconductor solar cells,
Concentrator solar cells and solar thin film solar cells, Spectral response, IV characteristics,
Temperature and radiation effects.
SPH 351: SOLAR ENERGY MATERIALS AND PROCESSES
Solar energy option: Direct and indirect conversion of solar energy. Solar Geometry and
Astronomy: Sun’s statistics, Sun’s orbitm, Seasons, Solar and sidereal day, Equation of time,
Sunset-sunrise hour angles, Extraterrestrial solar radiation on horizontal surface. Solar radiation:
The sun as a black body radiator, Solar constant global, Direct and diffuse components of solar
radiation. Measuring and monitoring solar radiation: Thermopile, Bimetallic and photovoltaicbased pyranometers and pyrheliometers, Gunn-Bellani distilometer, Measurement of sunshine
duration and associated meteorological parameters. Atmospheric attenuation of solar radiation:
Rayleigh and aerosol (Mie) scattering, Aerosol, Water vapour, Ozone and uniformly mixed gas
absorption. Estimating and modeling solar radiation data: Simple spectral models, Clear sky
models, Cloud models, Angstrom-type equation and associated techniques, Monthly, daily and
hourly beam and diffuse components of solar radiation, Radiation on sloped surfaces, Isotropic
and Anisotropic sky, Utilazability. Heat transfer analysis: Heat transfer by conduction, convection
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
and radiation, Laws of black body radiation, Natural and forced convection in various geometrical
configurations, Effectiveness and NTU calculations for heat exchangers. Optics of solar
collectors: Radiation transmission through glazing and radiation characteristics of opaque
materials, Kirchoff's, Snell’s and Fresnel’s laws, Transmittance, absorptance and reflectance,
Antireflective coatings, Selective surfaces.
SPH 352: BIOMASS ENERGY
Biomass feedstock: Residues, Crops for fuel, Forest plantations. Classification of biomass fuels:
Gaseous fuels, Liquid fuels, Solid fuels, Energy balance. Gasification and pyrolysis of biomass.
Energy profiles: Energy feedstock, technology, primary product, byproducts, safety and
environment, Net energy balance, R & D and commercial usage of various bio-fuels. Producer
gas: Gasifier design. Biogas digester design: Anaerobic digestion process, pH, Temperature,
Toxicity. Hydrogen: Biophotolysis. Ethanol: Sacchariferous materials, Amylaceous raw materials,
Cellulosic materials, Distillation, Cetane rating. Methanol: Spark ignition engines. Vegetable oils:
Sunflower, Rape oil, Palm oil etc, Cetane rating, Saponification, Specific gravity, Viscosity, Fatty
acids etc, Baggasse and other wastes, Wood alcohol etc, Pricing and economics.
SPH 353: PHOTOVOLTAICS II
General Physics of Photovoltaics: Interaction of light with a solar cell, Reflection and absorption,
Separation and collection of carriers, Efficiency and efficiency limiting factors, Influence of
illumination level on the efficiency. Materials and types of solar cells: Monocrystalline,
multicrystalline and amorphous silicon solar cells, Heterojunction solar cells and thin-film cells.
Technology of crystalline solar cells: Production of silicon wafers, Fabrication of crystalline and
multicrystalline silicon solar cells. Technology of thin-film solar cells: Amorphous Si solar cells,
CdS thin-film, GaAs, CdS/CdTe, CuInSe2 solar cells.
SPH 354: SOLAR THERMAL ENERGY
Flat-Plate Collectors: Energy Balance Equations, Temperature distribution, Heat loss coefficients,
Heat removal factor, Temperature distribution along the tube and plate, Transmittanceabsorptance product, Liquid heaters, Air heaters, Collector performance and characterization.
Solar concentrators: Optics, Configurations, Performance, Imaging and non-imaging optics,
Compound Parabolic Collectors (CPCs) and Linear Imaging Concentrators (LICs), Central
Receiver Collectors (CRCs). Thermal energy storage: Heat exchanger analysis, Phase change
and non-phase change (sensible heat) storage, packed bed storage, Stratified liquid storage,
Trombe walls, Chemical energy storage, Seasonal storage. Solar Process Loads: Hourly loads,
Space heating, Degree-days building loss coefficients and energy storage capacity, Cooling
loads. System Thermal Calculations: Component models, Collector heat exchanger factor,
various losses, Series arrays, partially shaded collectors, Modified collector equations.
Applications of Solar Thermal Heat: Active and passive water heating; Bulding heating and
cooling, Industrial process heat, Solar ponds.
SPH 355: WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY
Historical perspectives: Wind turbines, Classification and aerodynamics. Wind turbine
performance characteristics: Water pumping, Wind turbine generators. Wind system applications:
Water pumping and mechanical applications, Wind-electric systems, stand alone and grid
connected Wind farms. Wind characteristics: Average wind speed, Local terrain effects, Wind
speed and height, Statistical models (Weighbull and other distributions). Feasibility studies: Site
power and wind energy assessment, Site wind assessment, Power and energy output
calculations, Pricing and economic considerations.
SPH 410: MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS III
Group theory: Definition of group, Subgroup, Class, Cosets, Cyclic groups, Abelian groups,
Diserete group, Continuous groups; Abelian groups, Discrete group, Continuous group, Group
isomorphism, Group homomorphism, Unitary groups, Reducible and irreducible matrix
representations of groups Groups used in solid state physics and particle physics,
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MMU/PRO: 532001
Crystallographic point and space groups, The SU(2) and SU (3) groups. Tensors: Coordinate
transformation, Definition of scalar and vector in terms of the transformations, Definition of tensor,
Rank of tensor, Rank zero (scalar), Rank one (vector), Rank two tensor, Tensor addition,
subtraction and contraction, Direct product of a tensor, The quotient rule, Axial and polar vectors
and extension to definition of pseudotensor. Calculus of variations: The concept of variation,
Eulers equations for one dependant and one independent variable, Generalizations to (i) more
than one independent variables, (ii) more than one dependant variables and (iii) more than one of
both dependant and independent variable, The subject of constraints and introduction of
Lagrange Multipliers.
SPH 411: COMPUTATIONAL TECHNIQUES IN PHYSICS
Elementary mathematical operations: Numerical integration and differentiation, Determining roots.
Ordinary differential equations: Runge-Kutta methods of numerical differentiation. Partial differential
equations: Solving problems such as Maxwell's, diffusion and Schrodinger equations. Matrix
methods: Matrix inversion, solving systems of equations using Gauss-Jordan elimination and LU
decomposition techniques, Eigen value problems. Modeling of data: Statistics, Maximum likelihood
parameter estimation, Linear least squares fitting, Non-linear methods like the simplex method.
Computer Algebra: Introduction to the use of a symbolic computing package (Maple, Mathematica,
Mathcad or Matlab). Introduction to Monte Carlo: Meaning of Monte Carlo, Random number
generators, Monte Carlo integration, Metropolis algorithm, Quantum Monte Carlo, Molecular
dynamics.
SPH 412: TECHNICAL DRAWING
Introduction to Engineering drawing, drawing equipment, use of instruments, lettering and line work,
Title blocks, Conventional representations. Rules for dimensioning, Kenya standards, International
Standards such as ISO. Geometric constructions such as ellipse, hyperbola, parabola etc.
Orthographic projections : First and Third angles, Projections of points and lines, Pictorial drawings,
Graphical representation of data, Free hand sketching, Sectional views of objects, Viewing planes,
Projection of solids, Oblique projection of planes and solids, Isometric constructions, Intersection of
planes, Development of surfaces using generators, True view, oblique view, Elements of
Engineering design presentation, plans, elevations, sections.
SPH 413: WORKSHOP PRACTICE
Exposure of the students to proper use of machines in the metal workshop such as working with
lathe milling machine, hacksaw, arc welding and soldering instruments, practice on sheet metal,
familiarization with the combustion engine. Each student has to make some metal component to
show his/her learnt skill. Field Trips/ Industrial visits to at least three relevant industries/Factories or
workshops. The industries/factories involved will be those that are relevant to the special areas of
study offered by the department of physics i.e. (i) Material science option (Polymer, Glass, Ceramics,
Cement, Metal factories etc), (ii) Renewable energy option (Hydro, Geothermal, Fuel, Solar, etc,
power stations) and (iii) Electronics option (Radio, Telecommunications, Computer, Electronics, etc
centres). Students to submit a compiled report for assessment.
SPH 414: QUANTUM MECHANICS II
Angular momentum and spin: The angular momentum operators; Eigenvalues of angular
momentum operators; Angular momentum eigenfunctions; Normalization of angular momentum
eigenfunctions; Spin and Spin-orbit interaction; Addition of angular momenta; Addition of two spins
for the singlet and triplet eigenfunctions; Spin-orbital angular momentum addition; The Pauli
exclusion principle. Approximation methods: Time independent perturbation theory; The case of a
linear harmonic oscillator perturbed by an anharmonic term; The case of charged particles perturbed
by static electric and magnetic fields; The variational method; JWKB approximation. Many-particle
systems: The schrodinger equation for N-particle system; Conservation of momentum; Separation
of centre of mass motion; Reduced mass; Identical particles and symmetry under their interchange;
The Pauli Exclusion Principle; Fermions and Bosons in a Box; The Fermi energy. Scattering:
Collision cross section; Scattering at low energies; The Born approximation.
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
SPH 415: THERMODYNAMICS
Basic concepts: State variables, Intensive and extensive parameters, Zeroth law of thermodynamics,
Thermodynamic equilibrium, Ideal gas law, Temperature, Reversible processes, First law of
thermodynamics. Second law of thermodynamics: Clausius inequality, Carnot cycles and carnot
engines, Entropy, Equilibrium, Ideal gas etc, Heat engines and pumps, T-S diagram, entropy and
disoder. Mathematical formulation of thermodynamics: Thermodynamic potentials; U,H,F,G ;
Maxwell's relations; General thermodynamic relations, Legendre transformations, Joule and JouleKelvin coefficients, Equilibrium between phases, Clausius – Clayperon equations, Third law of
thermodynamics. Applications of Thermodynamics: Magnetic cooling, PVT systems. Radiation:
Stefan-Boltzmann law. Superconductivity and superfluidity: First and second order phase changes,
Open systems, Chemical potential and equilibrium. Third law of thermodynamics: Nearnst theorem,
Microscopic view point, Absolute zero.
SPH 416: STATISTICAL MECHANICS
Second law of thermodynamics: Direction of natural processes, Microscopic and macroscopic
systems, Statistical weight of a macrostate, Equilibrium of isolated system (microcanonical
Ensemble) and system in a Heat Bath (canonical Ensemble), Second law for infinitesimal changes,
Clausius inequality. Perfect classical gas: Partition function;,Equation of state, Specific heat
capacities, Entropy. Perfect quantum gas: Quantum Statistics, Partition function and its classical
limit, Free electron model of metals, Fermi-Dirac distribution, Bose-Einstein distribution, Black-body
radiation. Open systems: Grand Canonical Ensemble, Grand partition function, Partition function of
a classical and quantum gas, Fluctuations.
SPH 420: THE CERAMICS
Ceramic structures: Perovskite, Coroundum, Rutile, Spenel, Graphite, Silicate structures.
Imperfections in crystalline Ceramic structures: Point defects, Line defects, Surface defect.
Deformation and failure in Ceramics: Griffith's crack theory, toughening methods, Creep in
Ceramics. Phase diagrams in Ceramics: SiO2-Na2O, SiO2-Al2O3, SiO2 – CaO, SiO2 – MgO,
CaO-Al2O3, ZrO2-CaO, CaO-SiO2-Al2O3. Processing of Ceramics: Forming techniques for
ceramics, drying of powder compacts, firing of powder compacts, Hot pressing and reaction
bonding, Sol gel method, Porosity, Cementation, Heat treatment, Single crystals. Properties and
applications of ceramics: Clay products, Refractories, Electrical and magnetic ceramics, Enamels
and glazes, Fibres, Slugs and fluzes. Special ceramics: Alumina, Boron Carbide, Silicon carbide,
Silicon nitride, Sialon, Zirconia, Urania.
SPH 421: POLYMERS I
Polymers Categories and Structures: Polymerization mechanism, Polymer structure, Polymer
behaviour, Representing Structures. Chain formation by addition mechanism: Unsaturated bonds,
Tetrahedral structure of carbon, Functionality, Initiation of the addition mechanism, Growth of the
addition chain, Termination of the addition chain, Chain shape. Chain formation by condensation
mechanism: Examples of condensation reactions. Degree of polymerization:
Definition,
Examples. Deformation of thermoplastic polymers: Elastic behaviour, Plastic behaviour,
Viscoelasticity, Creep and impact properties. Effect of temperature on thermoplastics:
Degradation temperature, Liquid polymers, Amorphous polymers, Glassy polymers crystalline
polymers. Structure and properties of thermoplastic polymers: Elastic behaviour, Plastic
behaviour, Viscoelasticity, Creep and impact properties. Effect of temperature on thermoplastics:
Degradation temperature, Liquid polymers, Amorphous polymers, Glassy polymers Crystalline
polymers. Structure and properties of thermoplastics: Degree of polymerization, Type of
monomer, Branding, Copolymers, Nonsymmetrical polymer chains, Crystallization and
deformation, Blending and alloying.
SPH 422: POLYMERS II
Elastomers: Cross-linking, Thermoplastic elastomers, Stress relaxation. Thermosetting polymers:
Phenolics, Amines, Urethanes, Polyesters, Epoxies, Polyamides, Polymer networks,
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
Thermosetting polymers deformations. Additives of polymers: Pigments, Stabilizers, Antistatic
agents, Flame retardants, Plasticizers, Fillers, Reinforcement. Forming of polymers: Extrusion,
Blow molding, Injection molding, Thermoforming, Calendaring, Rotational molding, Drawing and
rolling, Spinning, Forms, Compression molding, Transfer molding, Reaction injection molding,
Casting.
SPH 423: SOLID STATE PHYSICS II
Insulators and semiconductors: Band theory of insulators and semiconductors. Models of impurity
semiconductor –n type and –p type. Conductivity of semiconductor and band gap. Band picture of
semiconductors. Hall effect with two carrier types. Superconductivity: Zero resistivity. Transition
temperature. Critical field. Critical current density. Meissner effect. Type I and II superconductors.
Thermodynamic of
superconductors: Heat capacity. Microwave and infrared properties.
Thermodynamics of superconducting transition. London’s equation. Penetration depth. Dielectrics
and Ferroelectrics: Dielectric properties of solids. Ferroelectric crystals. Behaviour of dielectric
constant and polarization catastrophe. Magnetism: Dia-, para-, ferri-, antiferromagnetism. Curie
and Curie- Weiss law. Ferromagnetic domains. Neil temperature. Point defects and alloys:
Schottky and Frenkel defects. Colour centres and luminescence. Substitutional solid solution.
Order- disorder transformation. Superstructure lines. Elementary theory of order.
SPH 424: COMPOSITES
Dispersion - strengthened composites: Particulate, fibre-reinformed and laminar composite,
Selection of the dispersant, Dispersion-Strengthened composites. Particulate Composites: Rule
of mixtures, Cemented carbides, Abrasives, Electrical contacts, Ploymers, Foundry molds and
cores, Compocasting. Fibre-Reinforced Composites: Modulus of Elasticity, Strength, Aspect
ratio, Volume fraction of fibres, Orientation of fibres, Properties of the fibre, Specific strength and
stiffness, Matrix properties, Bonding and failure. Manufacture of Composites: Making the fibre,
Arranging the fibre, Producing the composite, Pultrusion and pulforming. Composite systems and
applications: Closed die deformation, Bonding of a composite, Metal matrix composites, Ceramic
- ceramic Composites. Laminar Composites: Rule of mixtures, Rolling, Explosive bonding,
Coextrusion, Pressing, Brazing, Laminates, Hard surfacing, Clad metals, Bimetallics. Sandwich
Structures: Wood, Macro structure of wood, Structure of cells, Hard wood versus softwood,
Properties of wood, Plywood.
SPH 425: THERMODYNAMICS AND SELECTION OF MATERIALS
Thermodynamics: Heat and energy, Entropy and free energy, Direction of chemical change, Free
energy of metallic compounds, Ellingham diagram, Dissociation temperature, Dissociation
pressure, Activity. Diffusion: Diffusion equations, Types of diffusion, Vacancy equilibria, Effect of
crystal defects, Diffusion in semiconductor technologies. Sintering: Single and multiphase
Materials, Experimental Observations, Metal Sintering, Ceramic Sintering. Corrosion and
Oxidation: Elastrochemistry, Polarisation, Passivity Types of Corrosion, Corrosion rates,
corrosion Control methods, Oxidation mechanisms, Surface films, Protective Oxides, Rust,
Scales. Selection of materials: Selection of metals, Organic materials or ceramics, Service,
manufacturing cost and strength requirements, Corrosion resistance, Electrical and aesthetic
considerations.
SPH 426E: MATERIALS SCIENCE AND POLYMER PHYSICS
Metallurgy: Extraction of metals, Refining of metals. Ceramics: Structure and properties of
ceramics. Cement and Concrete: Production, structural properties and uses of cement. Polymers:
Thermosetting polymers, Thermoplastic polymers, Mechanical and electrical properties of polymers,
Crystalline and glassy polymers, Elastomers, Forming processes, Uses. Composite Materials:
Metallic, Organic, Natural and synthetic composites. Paints and Coatings: Metallic, Organic,
Composite.
SPH 427E: THERMODYNAMICS OF MATERIALS
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
Thermodynamics: Heat and energy, Entropy and free energy, Direction of chemical change, Free
energy of metallic compounds, Ellingham diagram, Dissociation temperature and pressure, Activity.
Diffusion: Diffusion equations, Types of diffusion, Vacancy equilibria Effects of crystal defects,
Diffusion in semiconductor technologies. Multicomponent system: Allotropy, Solid solubility, Lever
rule, Phase rule, Phase changes, Structural changes, Iron-carbon system. Sintering: Single and
multiphase materials, Experimental observations, Metal sintering, ceramic sintering. Corrosion and
oxidation: Electrochemistry, Polarisation, Passivity, Types of corrosion, Corrosion rates, Corrosion
control methods, Oxidation mechanisms, Surface films, Protective oxides, Rust, Scales.
SPH 430: RIGID BODIES
Plane motion of rigid bodies: Translations and rotation, Euler's theorem, Instantaneous axis of
rotation, Degrees of freedom, General motion of a rigid body, chasle's theorem, Plane motion of a
rigid body, momentum of inertia, Radium of gyration, Parallel axis theorem, Perpendicular axes
theorem, special moments of inertia, couples, Kinetic energy and angular momentum about a
fixed axis, Motion of a rigid body about a fixed axis, Principle of angular momentum and
conservation of energy, Work and power, Impulse, Conservation of angular momentum, The
Compound pendulum, General plane motion of a rigid body, Instantaneous Center, Space and
body centrodes, Statics of a rigid body, Principle of virtual work and D'Alembert's principle,
Principle of minimum potential energy, Stability. Space motion of rigid bodies: General motion of
rigid bodies in space, Degrees of freedom, Pure rotation of rigid bodies, Velocity and angular
velocity of a rigid body with one point fixed, Angular momentum, Moments of inertia, Products of
inertia, Moments of inertia matrix tensor, Kinetic energy of rotation, Principal axes of inertia,
Angular momentum and kinetic energy about the principal axes, Ellipsoid of inertia, Euler's
equations of motion, Force free motion, Invariable line and plane, Poinsot's construction, polhode,
Herpolhode, Space and body Cones, Symmetric rigid bodies, The Euler angles, Spinning top,
Gyroscope.
SPH 431: SUPERCONDUCTIVITY
Empirical Criteria: Empirical rules of superconductivity. Transition temperature: Transition
temperature of superconductor. Energy gap: Normal and superconducting state. Properties
dependant on energy gap: Microwave and infrared absorption, Density of states, Specific heat,
Acoustic attenuation, Thermal conductivity, Nuclear Spin relaxation, Spin susceptibility of
electrons. Meissner effect: Meissner effect in a solid sphere, Meissner effect in a ring. Other
properties of superconductors: Critical field, Type-I and type II Superconductors, Critical currents,
Isotope effect, Frohlicln interaction, Josephson tunneling. London equations: First and second
London equations, London penetration depth, order parameter. Thermodynamics of
Superconducting transition: Gibbs energy of normal and superconducting states, Entropy and
heat capacities of normal and superconducting states, Coherence length, phase coherence and
slux quantization, origin of energy gap, cooper pair. Theories of Superconductivity: BCS, High
Tc.
SPH 432: LOW TEMPERATURE PHYSICS II
Superconductivity: The transition to the superconducting state, Thermal properties, Electric,
magnetic, and electrodynamics properties, Theory of superconductivity, Consequences of the
BCS theory, Josephson effects, Type I and Type II superconductivity, High- Tc superconductors.
Superfluidity: Influence of Bose-Einstein Statistics, Two-Fluid properties, Wave propagation,
Superfluidity and excitations, Quantized vortices in Helium II, The Helium II surface and creeping
superfluid films, Critical Vortices, Other Boson fluids, Cold atom scattering- BEC. Applications:
Uses of low temperatures, High-current and magnetic field application of superconductivity. Low
temperature electronics; Uses of liquefied gases.
SPH 433: ELEMENTARY THEORY OF SCATTERING
Scattering Theories: Classical definition of scattering cross –section, Quantum theory of
Scattering, Born approximations, Application of Born approximation for the shield Coulomb
potential. Method of partial waves: Partial wave method, Scattering by hard sphere, Scattering by
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a square well and the Ramsuer effect, Scattering of neutrons by protons, approximate
expressions for phase shifts in the Born approximation. Coulomb Scattering: Coulomb potential,
the differential cross-section. Identical particles: Consideration for identical particles, Laboratory
and centre of mass co-ordinate systems.
SPH 434: LAGRANGE AND HAMILTON THEORY
Lagrange equations: Generalized coordinates, Notation, Transformation equations, Scleronomic,
rheonomic, holonomic and non-holonomic systems, conservative and non conservative systems,
kinetic energy, generalized velocities, generalized forces, Lagrange's generalized momenta,
Lagranges equation for non-holonomic systems, Lagrange's equations with impulsive forces.
Hamiltonian methods: Hamiltonian, Hamilton's equations, Hamiltonian for Conservative Systems,
Ignorable cyclic coordinates Phase space, Liouville's theorem, Calculus of variations, Hamilton's
principle, Canonical transformation, Generating functions, Hamilton-Jacobi equation phase
integrals, Action and angles Variables.
SPH 435: COMPUTATIONAL CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS
Monte Carlo Methods: Metropolis route Carlo, Cluster methods and other methods, Analysis
(points, single histogram, umbrella methods), Application to phase transitions and biological
molecules. Molecular Dynamics: Classical and first principles methods, Algorithms (Varlet
algorithm), Varlet neighour lists (implementation and utilization, Table look ups, cell methods,
Applications to diffusion, ensembles and calculation of macroscopic properties using molecular
dynamics, Biological molecules. Calculation of electronic structures of atoms and solids: The
many body problem, Introduction to methods of calculating electronic structure (Plane wave
method and modified plane wave methods), Introduction to Density Functional theory.
SPH 436E: SEMINAR IN THEORETICAL PHYSICS
At least three Seminars on recent advances on contemporary Physics problems/issues. E.g
Condensed Matter Physics (such as High Tc superconductivity, Superfluidity, supersolidity),
Statistical Physics, Plasma Physics, Physics of Nano-devices, High energy physics, Recent
development in the in various types of materials etc.
SPH 440: RADIO COMMUNICATION
Concepts and terminology: Transmission terminology, types of communication systems, radio
frequency bands, signal stregth and their propagation. Fundamental Radio Process: Coding of the
baseband signal, Generation of AM and FM carrier wave, Modulation of Carrier waves by audio AM
and FM. Signal Detection: The AM diode-detector circuits, AM superheterodyne and FM
superheterodyne receivers. Discriminator: The Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) circuit, the PLL detector
circuit and the application of PLL.
SPH 441: DIGITAL SYSTEM DESIGN
Review of logic design fundamentals: Combination logic, Boolean algebra and algebraic
simplifications, K-maps, Designing with NAND and NOR gates, Hazards in combinational
networks, Flip-Flops and latches, Mealy sequential network design, Equivalent states and
reduction of state tables, Sequential network timing, Set-up and hold-up times, Tri-state logic and
busses. Introduction to VHDL: VHDL description of combinational network, Modeling flip-flops
using VHDL process, VHDL models for a multiplexes, Compilation and simulation of VHDL
codes, Modeling a sequential machines, Variable signals and constants, Arrays, VHDL
operations, VHDL functions, VHDL procedures, VHDL models for counters (specific counter).
Designing with programmable logic devices:PALs, PLDs . Designing of network for arithmetic
operations: Design of a serial adder with accumulator, state graphs for control network, Design of
binary multiplexes, Multiplication of signed binary numbers, Design of binary divider. Digital
design with SM charts: State machine charts, Derivation of SM charts, Realization of SM charts,
Introduction to state estimation equations (process).
SPH 442: THE MICROPROCESSOR
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Binary number system: Introduction to binary numbers, Binary arithmetic, Octal and hexadecimal
number system. Review of logic functions: AND, NOR, INCLUSIVE-OR, EXCLUSIVE-OR
functions. Memory circuits: Overview of semiconductor memories, RAMs, ROMs, PROMs, and
other memories.
Microprocessor architecture: General computer architecture, Registers,
Arithmetic unit, Instruction-handling areas, Stacks, Specific features of microprocessor
architecture, Differences between various microprocessors. Microprocessor instruction sets:
Computer instruction formats, Addressing methods, Types of instructions, Microprocessor
instruction sets, Examples of microprocessor instruction sets. Microprocessor assemblers:
Comparison of language levels, Features of assemblers, Features of microprocessors
assemblers, Examples of assemblers such as Intel 8085, Z80 and Motorola 6800. Assembly
language programming: Simple programs, Loops and arrays, Arithmetic, Character
manipulations, Subroutine. Microprocessor memory: General features of the memory interface,
Simple memory, Busing structures, Design of Tri-state memory, interfacing of microprocessors.
Microprocessor input/output: General discussion of I/O, Simple I/O program, Useful I/O hardware,
I/O devices, I/O design for specific processors. Data handling and storage: Various devices of
data handling and storage.
SPH 443: MEASUREMENT AND INSTRUMENTATION
Fundamental and derived quantities:
Precision measurement of fundamental quantities.
Measurement of Errors:
Relative errors, Systematic errors, Random errors, Methods of
measurements, Display and recording of measurements (analogue and digital), Ammeters,
voltmeters, Ohmmeter, Bridge, Measurement of charge, direct current and alternating current,
Potentiometers, Cathode ray oscilloscope,
Recording potentiometer, Power and energy
measurements, Vacuum techniques. Resistive transducers: Strain gauges, Temperature and
humidity measurements, .Prani gauge. Voltage transducers: Thermopile, PH measurement,
Capacitive and inductive transducers, Pressure transducers, Radiation transducers, Phototubes,
Photodiodes and transistors, Photoconductivity cells, Geiger-Muller tubes, Scintillation counters,
Power supply, Signal generators, Temperature control, Optical measuring instruments. Modern
instruments: Brief survey of modern instruments, Infrared spectrophotometer, Ultra violet/visible
spectrophotometers, Nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, Mass spectrometer, Atomic
absorption spectroscopy.
SPH 444: OPTO-ELECTRONICS DEVICES
Introduction: Interaction of light and matter, the laser principle and characteristics. The laser
resonator: Flat mirror resonator, Modes in confocal resonator, Nonconfocal cavities, Line
broadening, Bandpass and laser modes. Gaussian light beams: Propagation, Focusing,Lens
transformation, Laser theory, Balance equations. Steady-state operation: Population inversion,
Output power parameters and transients, Pulsed operation Q-switching, Mode locking (principle and
techniques). Laser types, principle, description and characteristics: Gas lasers, He-Ne, Ar, Neutral
molecular lasers (CO), Solid state lasers (Nd-Yag), Dye lasers, Semiconductor lasers.
SPH 445: MICROPROCESSSOR INTERFACING
Basic microprocessor architecture: components of microprocessor systems, bus line and bus
signals, signal flow during data transfers, I/O transfer methods, interrupts, Direct memory access.
Principles of data transfer: device addressing, memory-mapped I/O, I/O package design,
Counter/timer design, serial I/O design. I/O packages: parallel I/O devices, programming the I/O
devices, flag test, interrupt handling, the Intel 8255 PPI, programming the Intel 8255, Serial
interfaces for different microprocessors, the Intel 8251A USART, synchronous serial data adapter
(SSDA), DMA controllers, priority interrupt controllers. Transducer and signal conversion: signal
transformation for I/O, digital inputs, analog sensors, temperature measurements, signal
conditioning, DAC, ADC, slow rate limitations, tracking converters, digital coding of analogue
signals, ADC interfacing, protection from interference, output circuits, motor drive circuits.
Practical I/O devices: mechanical switches, manual input devices, inputs from keyboards, reverse
scanning, driving digital displays, waveform generators. Microcomputer busses : development of
standard busses, S-100 busses, IEEE-488 or IEC 625 busses, IEEE- 796 bus, serial data
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standards. System testing and development: system development, ROM simulators, board
testing, in-circuit emulators, logic state analyzers, asynchronous display, graphical display,
signature analyzers, other fault finding aids.
SPH 446E: ADVANCED RADIO COMMUNICATION
Baseband Communication: Analogue, pulse and digital data transmission. Transmission Impairment:
Attenuation distortion, Delay distortion and Noise (i.e. thermal, inter-modulation, crossover and
impulse) distortion. Frequency Translation: Frequency multiplexing, Antenna sizing, Narrowbanding,
Frequency conversion and recovery of the baseband signal. Linear Modulation: AM and DSB, SSB,
VSB and multiplexing. Exponential Modulation: Phase modulation, Relation between phase and
frequency modulation, FM spectral analysis using Bessel function.
SPH 447E: SPECIAL CIRCUITS
Home entertainment circuits: Stereo amplifier, Stereo pre-amplifier, Equalisation and tone control
circuit, Compact disc (CD) player, Dolby noise reduction in tape recorders. FM stereo: Generation
and coding, FM stereo decoders, S/N ratio enhancement techniques and circuits. Transmission
Media: Twisted pair, Coaxial cable, Optical fibre, Terrestrial microwave, satellite microwave and
carrier system. Antennas: Antenna design, T.V and Video circuits, Remote control circuit using radio
and IR.
SPH 448E: TROUBLE SHOOTING DIGITAL CIRCUITS
Instruments for troubleshooting: Oscilloscope, Logic analyser, Signature analyser, Logic probe,
Current tracer, Logic pulser, Logic clip. Troubleshooting of logic gates: Troubleshooting open input,
Troubleshooting open output, Oscilloscope measurements. Troubleshooting of gate networks: Open
output in driving gate, Open input in a load gate, Shorted output in driving gate, Shorted input in a
load gate. Troubleshooting of devices: Troubleshooting of decoders, flipflops, shift registers and
memories.
SPH 450: PHOTOVOLATIC SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY
Solar Cells: Assembling and encapsulation of solar cells, IV-Characteristics, Temperature
effects, Radiation absorption and material selection. Solar Cell Development: Crystalline,
polycrystalline and amorphous silicon technology, Concentrator cells. Power system types-design
considerations: PV site architecture and layout. System sizing and selection: Stand alone, Hybrid
and grid-connected systems, Electrical load requirements, Voltage regulation, Power quality,
Power profile and energy. Input characteristics: Solar energy, Characteristics of user loads,
Operating environment, Safety and protection, Electromagnetic interference, Operation and
maintenance, Balance of system technology, Modularity, reliability, lifetime and expansion
capability. PV system hardware and peripherals: PV arrays, Batteries (Problems experienced,
failure modes and possible causes, battery charge control and discharge protection), Power
conditioning and management, DC bus voltage and power distribution, Performance monitoring,
Project management, Social benefits assessment; Legal and institutional issues.
SPH 451: GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
The Earth’s structure and plate tectonics: The crust, Mantle, Asthenosphere and core, diverging,
converging and conservative boundaries. Geothermal gradient and rock conductivity: Heat flow
within the Earth, Conduction and convection, geothermal gradient. Geothermal fields: Hydrothermal systems, Water-dominated fields, Wet-steam fields, Vapour-dominated fields, Quality and
enthalpy of steam, the origin of steam. Geologic environment: Areas of the world characterized by
young tectonics and volcanism-the Cenozoic age. Geothermal exploration: Inventory and survey
of surface manifestations, Hydro-geological surveys, Geo-chemical surveys, Geophysical
surveys, Gravity methods, Electromagnetic surveys, Thermal-measurement surveys, Exploratory
wells. Drilling and extraction: High temperature and low temperature wells, Fluid extraction, Well
testing and reservoir modeling, Distribution of fluids. Geothermal energy utilization: Prehistoric
period, Space heating, Greenhouse heating, Mineral extraction, Electric energy production
(conventional and organic Rankine engines) heat pumps, Direct intake and condensing plants,
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World geothermal use and other scenarios. Environmental impacts: CO2 emission, Water
pollution, Ammonia, Boron, Radon, Methane, mercury and hydrogen sulfide, Land subsidence
and seismicity, Finance and investment scenarios.
SPH 452 HYDRO-ENERGY SYSTEMS
Fundamentals of hydropower: Calculating power; Estimating discharge and head; Hydropower
potential. Classification of hydropower plants: Large, mini, small and micro-hydro systems,
Project planning, Water supply. Turbines and generators: Impulse and reaction turbines, Pelton,
Francis and other turbines, Speed regulators, Generators, and electric distribution systems,
Economics and hydropower end-uses.
SPH 453: OCEAN ENERGY SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGY
Wave Energy: Analysis of wave motion, Wave energy and power, Power extraction, Wave
patterns. Devices: Wave profile devices, Oscillating water columns, Submerged devices,
Shoreline, near shore and offshore devices, Specific devices such as the Archimedes Wave
Swing, the TAPCHAN, the OSPREY, the McCabe Wave Pump, the Pelamis, the OPT WEC,
Edinburgh duck, Bristol cylinder, SEA clam etc, Comparative economics of wave energy,
Potential Market, Environmental impacts and institutional issues (planning, consent), Technical
issues such as grid connection. Tidal Energy: The cause of tides, Lunar and Solar tides, Neap
and spring tides, Principles and practices of tidal range and tidal flow power, Drag devices (water
wheels), Lift devices (turbines), Economics and future prospects, Environmental issues and
technical challenges. Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems: Thermodynamics of
heat engine and refrigerator, Heat Exchangers, Closed cycle and open cycle systems, Hybrid
systems, Suitable sites, Environmental impacts and technical challengers.
SPH 454: CONTEMPORARY ISSUES IN ENERGY SYSTEMS AND MANAGEMENT
Introduction to design and operation of energy conversion and supply systems: Hybrid systems,
Photovoltaics systems, Wind powered systems, solar thermal systems, Conventional energy
conversion systems, Co-generation and tri-generation. Renewables and climate change: Green
house gases and green energy, the energy protocols e.g Kyoto and Bonn protocols,
Environmental impact of renewables, Evaluating renewables, Standards and the International
Performance Measurement and Verification Protocols. Efficient use of energy: Use in buildings,
factories and transport systems, Optimization of performance of electrical appliance systems,
Design principles to minimize energy use in buildings and devices.
SPH 455: ENERGY ECONOMICS AND POLICY
Economic theory of the energy sector: Applications to fuel wood, fossil fuels, thermal,
hydroelectric and renewable energy sectors, Discounted cash flow analysis,Levelised cost, Cost
benefit analysis, Cost analysis and internalizing of externalities, Price determination and risk
management, Assessment of relative costs of energy conservation and energy production in
various appliances, Principles of energy auditing, Open access to energy facilities, Taxation of
the energy sectors, Green certification, Renewable energy market, Market penetration and
liberalization, The role of public utilities and government industry regulators, Renewable energy
business in developed, developing, and underdeveloped countries; Micro-credit schemes and
renewable energy financing, Factors influencing energy policy at international and national level,
The context of ecologically sustainable development. Effect of contemporary pressures on energy
policy measures: Demand-side and supply-side management, Carbon taxes, Promotion of new
energy technologies, Least-cost analysis and pricing structures, Which can be used to create a
sustainable pattern of energy worldwide.
SPH 456E: SOLAR ENERGY PHYSICS
Sources of energy: Energy and its various sources. Solar energy: The solar energy option, Direct
and indirect conversion of solar energy, Model for sun, Radiative emission from the sun, Solar
constant, solar time, solar angles, solar radiation analysis. Solar measurements: Measuring
equipments, solar radiation data, solar radiation on a titled surface, Heat transfer analysis for solar
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energy utilization, Optics of solar collectors, Transmittance and reflectance, Flat plate solar
collectors, Efficiency. Solar energy collection: Anti-reflective and selective coatings, Parabolic,
Cylindrical and spherical concentrators, Materials and construction of collectors, Storage of solar
energy, Thermodynamic conversation of solar energy to work. Solar photovoltaic cells: Junction
solar cell, Spectral responsivity, Characteristics, Quantum efficiency, Quantum and other losses in
real solar cells, Some examples of solar cell improvements.
SPH 457E: GEOPHYSICS
Earth: Earth as a planet, Shape and structure of the earth, Seismology, Geomagnetism,
Geodynamics, Geochronology. Methods: Gravity, magnetic, electromagnetic, electrical, seismic,
radioactivity methods of exploration for subsurface areas and natural resources. Interpretation of
data: Geophysical well logging, Techniques of geophysics data analysis, Data interpretation.
SPH 458E: VACUUM TECHNIQUES
Introductory gas dynamics: Maxwellian gas, Pressure and its units, Mean free path, Visions and
molecular transport, Interaction between gaseous and condensed phases, Adsorption,
Chemisorption, Condensation, Evaporation, Pump down and pumping speed, Rough, high and ultra
high vacuum. Pumps: Liquid and gas ejectors; Liquid-ring; Oil sealed rotary, Roots blower, Vapour
diffusion and their vapour traps, Turbomolecular, Cryo- and ion getter, Vacuum sealing and meals.
Pressure measurement: Membrane transducers, Heat conduction ganges, Ion conductivity gauges,
Mercury column and McCleod, Residual gas analysis, Leaks and leak detection. Short overlook on
vacuum applications: Evaporation, Freeze drying, Electron stream/beam tubes, Electron/ion/particle
beam systems, Vacuum coaters. Thin film coating systems and processes: Evaporation, Sputtering,
Principles and techniques. Film formation: Nucleation, Islandic growth, amorphous films. Vacuum
chemical vapour deposition: Thermal and plasma assisted.
SPH 459E: ELECTRONIC CIRCUITS AND MICROPROCESSORS
Binary Operations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of binary numbers, Adder
circuits. Memory circuits: Read only memory, Random access memory, Read/write memory.
Microprocessors: Introduction to microprocessors, Architecture of the microprocessor, Some
practical microprocessors, Microprocessor programming (machine and assembly language),
Interfacing the microprocessor, Data handling and storage, Introduction to micro-computer.
SPH 460E: INTRODUCTION TO LASER PHYSICS
Introduction: Interaction of light and matter, The laser principle and characteristics. The laser
resonator: Flat mirror resonator, Modes in confocal resonator, Nonconfocal cavities, Line
broadening, Bandpass and laser modes. Gaussian light beams: Propagation, Focusing, Lens
transformation. Laser theory: Balance equations. Steady-state operation: Population inversion,
Output power parameters, Transients, Pulsed operation, Q-switching, Mode locking, Principle and
techniques. Laser types: Principle, description and characteristics. Gas lasers: He-Ne, Ar and neutral
molecular lasers (CO ), Solid state lasers (Nd-Yag), Dye lasers, Semiconductor lasers.
SPH 461E: FOURIER OPTICS
Introduction: Describing two dimensional linear systems, the basics of scalar diffraction theory.
Imaging properties of lenses: Thin lens as a phase transformation device, Fourier transforming
properties of lens. Ion image formation: Impulse response, Relation between object and image.
Frequency analysis of optical imaging systems: The general model, Diffraction, Limited coherent
and incoherent cases, Coherent and optical transfer functions, Effect of aberrations of frequency
response, Measurement of optical transfer function as a figure of merit of optical systems. Optical
systems: Slit; edge, grating, interferometric - methods. Applications: Spatial filtering, Holography.
SPH 462E: RENEWABLE SOURCES OF ENERGY
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Sources of energy: Renewable and non renewable sources of energy, World's and Kenya's
production and reserves of energy, The oil crisis, Need for renewable supplies, Alternative energy
sources, Nuclear energy, Advantages and disadvantages of each form of energy. Solar-Thermal
Energy: Greenhouse effect, Flat-plate and concentrating collectors, Selective coating, Sensible heat
storage. Solar photovoltaics: P-N junction solar cells, Solar panels. Hydro-power: Principles;
Measurement of head and flow rate; Turbines; Hydro-electric systems. Wind-power: Principle of
wind-mills, Coefficient of performance. Energy from Bioconversion and Biomass: Photosynthesis
energy storage in plants, Fuel wood, Charcoal, Biogas, Generation plants, Applications. Geothermal
Energy: Dry rock and hot aquifer analysis, Harnessing geothermal energy. Oceanic energy:
Principle of harnessing wave energy, Tidal power, Oceanic thermal energy. Superconducting power
plant: Possibilities of superconducting power plant.
SPH480: INDUSTRIAL/FIELD ATTACHMENT
In order to integrate theory and practice, the students will be attached for eight (8) weeks, to
organizations relevant to their special area of study offered by the department of Physics i.e.
Material science option (Polymer, Glass, Ceramics, Cement, Metal factories etc), (ii) Renewable
energy option (Hydro, Geothermal, Fuel, Solar, etc, power stations) and (iii) Electronics option
(Radio, Telecommunications, Computer, Electronics, etc., centers). They will be expected to
participate in day-to-day activities of the organization under the supervision of qualified personnel;
Students will maintain a logbook of their daily participation, observations and remarks; they will
regularly be advised and the logbook checked at the place of attachment by the organization’s
supervisor and departmental academic staff from the University. (End of semester 2, year 4)
SPH 490: RESEARCH PROPOSAL
In the beginning of the final year, each student shall be assigned one experimental or theoretical
research project. The areas of research shall normally be given by the project supervisors (i.e., the
lecturers). The student is expected to write and present a proposal to Departmental Board of
Examiners (6th week latest) before proceeding to do research. Research proposal should describe
the nature of the project and set forth the plan for carrying it out. The statement of the intended
research work should cover the following: Introduction, Statement of the problem, Literature
review, Rational and Justification of study, Theoretical framework, Statement of objectives, Scope
and limitations, Methodology, Summary of Chapters/ Tentative outline, Work plan/ time schedule,
Budget, References/ Bibliography.
SPH 499:.RESEARCH AND DISSERTATION
A 4th year student is expected to do research on a contemporary Physics problem in his/her area
of specialization as per a defended proposal. The research shall be carried out independently
under the supervision of an academic staff. A Dissertation shall be written and submitted by the
12th week of second semester. The student shall then be invited for Oral examination by a
Departmental Board of Examiners.
Courses offered to BSc Physics by other departments
CDM 100: HIV/AIDS PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT
HIV and AIDS Biological Concepts; Theories of origin of HIV and AIDS; Mitigation of HIV and AIDS
impacts; Vulnerability to HIV and AIDS; Counselling HIV and AIDS infected and affected persons;
Workplace policy in the wake of HIV and AIDS; Communication and Technical Issues in HIV and
AIDS; HIV and AIDS and the media; HIV and AIDS Equipment; Economic Issues in HIV and AIDS
;Biostatistics of HIV and AIDS.
ECC 101:
SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Principles of organising, developing and writing information and reports. Forms and convection
common to scientific and technical information to various audience; principles and techniques of
oral presentation as medium; computer/graphic and visual presentation techniques. The methods
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may be effectively presented by some case studies as: An audience for particular communication
adaptation; designing and managing illustrations; and designing of written documents; writing
research reports with procedures, results, conclusions and recommendations; using sources to
produce articles about new technologies or news worthy events using both text and graphic
elements in an effective layout. Recognising and correcting common grammar and style faults.
SCH 100: FUNDAMENTALA OF CHEMISTRY I
Atoms: Masses of atoms; relative atomic masses; formulae of compounds formed by atoms;
Molecular masses; the mole; solutions formed by compounds; concentration of solutions; Molarity.
Redox reactions: transfer of electrons; types of redox reactions; oxidation numbers. Electronic
structure; evidence for the electronic structures of atoms; Electromagnetic radiation; interaction with
electrons; atomic spectra of hydrogen atom; electrons and orbitals; electronic structures and periodic
table. Periodic properties: s and p block elements, d-block (transition) series; non-metals; transition
metals, Nuclear structure and reactivity: stable and unstable isotopes; nuclear equations; chain
nuclear reactions; atomic bombs; use of radioisotopes and application of radioactivity. Introduction to
organic molecules: their structure, nomenclature, classification and general properties; Basic
reactions of aliphatic compounds: alkanes, alkynes, alkenes, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones and
carboxylic acids; Basic reactions of the benzene ring. Practicals.
SCH 101: FUNDAMENTALS OF CHEMISTRY II
Laboratory safety regulations and practices, S.I units. Rates of reaction: Order of reaction,
molecularity factors affecting the above. Simple collision and activated complex theories: theories of
solutions, concentrations. Introduction to elemental qualitative and quantitative analysis: the mole,
Avogadro’s number, molar mass of compounds, Empirical formula and molecular formula,
stoichiometry, combustion analysis. Practicals.
IRD 103: DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS AND APPLICATIONS
The basic concepts on development: economic conception, political conception, social
conception, cultural and environmental conceptions; Objectives of development. Theories of
Development: classical, neo-classical and current theories; Relationship between socialeconomic development, modernisation and economic growth; analysis of contemporary
development problems in Africa; Philosophical and organizational strategies for development;
Agents of development, management of development resources.
IRD 104: QUANTITATIVE SKILLS II
Record keeping: ledger, income statement, balance sheet, assets and liabilities, analysis of
simple financial statements; Interest, discounts and commissions. Budgeting: personal and
simple business budgets, financial projections. Simple investment analysis: cost of capital,
working capital, capital expenditure decision, return on capital invested. Public accounts: revenue
and expenditure, balance of payments, balance of trade. Gross national product (GNP), Gross
Domestic Product (GDP). Index numbers: simple determination of their uses, concept of inflation;.
Taxation: purpose, principle types and calculation of personal income taxes, Value Added Tax
(VAT). Stock exchange: stocks, shares, bond, stock market ratios, share evaluation.
Demography: birth and death rates, growth rate dependency ratio, population trend and
projections.
MAT 101: FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS I
Sets; Elementary logic; Number Systems; Modular Arithmetic; Complex Numbers; Relations and
functions; Elementary functions and their graphs; Permutations; Combinations; Trigonometry.
Representation formulas for solutions of Linear PDEs: Transport equation
MAT 102: FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS II
Vectors and scalars; vector products and their geometrical interpretations. Algebraic linear systems
of equations and matrices. Matrix Algebra. Row Reduction, Gaussian - Elimination. Methods of
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finding inverse of matrices. Determinant, its properties and methods of evaluation. Pre-requisite MAT
101.
MAT 121: CALCULUS I
Limits of functions and continuity; Derivatives of functions of a single variable; Methods of
Differentiation: Product Rule, Quotients Rule, Chain Rule; Implicit differentiation; Derivatives of
Logarithmic, Exponential and Trigonometric Functions; Higher Order Derivatives; Application of
Derivatives: Rates of Change, Maxima, Minima, Curve Sketching, Equations of Tangents and
Normals; Rolle’s Theorem
MAT 122: ELEMENTARY APPLIED MATHEMATICS
The straight line: Gradient & equation of a straight line. Vectors in 2-D & 3-D, lines and planes. Polar
coordinates: Relation between Cartesian and polar coordinates; graphs of polar equations. Circles,
Kinematics; motion in straight lines, relative motion, connected bodies, friction, momentum, force
and moments. Laws of motion, impulse, work, energy. Projectiles. Uniform circular motion. Direct
impact of elastic bodies and coefficient of resistitution.
STA 141: INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS
Nature of Statistics: Use of statistics; type of data; sources of data. Methods of data collection.
Explanatory data analysis; data displays, charts and diagrams, frequency distributions; tables;
graphical displays scatter plots, frequency graphs, stem & leaf diagrams Summary statistics;
measure of location and dispersion, skewness and kurtosis. Index numbers. Measure of association.
STA 142: INTRODUCTION TO PROBABILITY
Set theory: Definition, Intersection of Sets, Union, Complement, Laws of Sets; De-Morgans Law;
Probability: axioms of probability, conditional probability and independence, Bayes theorem.
Permutation and combination. Random variables and probability distributions; the probability
distribution function; Discrete and continuous distribution; Mathematical Expectations.
Pre-requisite STA 141.
CSC 110: FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTING
Characteristics of computers, the evolution of computers, survey of computer technologies and
application; introduction to hardware, basic computer organization, data representation, processor
and memory, peripheral devices; introduction to software, programming languages, operating
systems, and application software; introduction to data communication.
CSC 111: INTRODUCTION TO PROGRAMMING
Introduction: High Level Languages, Source Code, Object Code, Translators; Interpreters,
Compilers, Algorithms. Program Elements: Keywords, Pre-processor Commands, Data types,
Variables, Operators, Expressions, Statements, Blocks, Comments. Control structures: Selection,
Iteration. Basic Data Structures: Arrays, Records, Unions. Modular Programming: Procedures,
Functions. Recursion. Programming using a state-of-the-art high level language, e.g. Pascal, C,
Modula-2, Ada, Python.
CSC 121: PROCEDURAL PROGRAMMING
Memory: Pointers, Dynamic allocation, Memory Leaks, Garbage Collection. Basic Data Structures:
Arrays, Records/Structs/Classes, Unions, Enumeration, Linked Lists. Modular Programming:
Procedures, Functions, Namespaces, File Modules. I/O: Standard, Disk Files. Library Procedures:
Standard, API. Programming using a state-of-the-art high level language, e.g. Pascal, C, Modula-2,
Ada.
MAT 224: ANALYTIC GEOMETRY
Plane curves, parametric representatives, lengths of curves, lines and planes in 3-D space.
Surfaces, cylinders, cones. Conics sections: Parabola, ellipse and hyperbola. Cylindrical and
spherical coordinates and applications. Pre-requisite MAT 122, MAT 221.
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
STA 241: STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY
Expectations, moment generating functions and characteristic functions. Standard probability
distributions: uniform, exponential, normal, Bernoulli, binomial, geometric, negative binomial,
hypergeometric, Poisson; the Poisson and binomial approximation to the normal. Deriving
distributions; the T~,  ~ and F~ sampling distributions. Law of Large numbers and the central limit
theorem. Pre-requisite: STA 141, STA 142.
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STA 242: PROBABILITY AND DISTRIBUTION MODELS
Review of probability. Special continuous distributions; gamma,  , Weibull, Beta, Cauchy. Discrete
and continuous bivariate probability distributions. Conditional and marginal distributions of more than
two Random variables. Independence, Multivariate expectations; mean vectors and covariance
matrices. Pre-requisite STA 241.
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MAT 304: COMPLEX ANALYSIS I
Functions of a complex variable. Analytic functions: limits, continuity, and differentiability. Mappings.
Complex integration. Power and Laurent series. Singularities, residues and poles. Applications. Prerequisite: MAT 204, MAT 301.
MAT 305: GROUP THEORY I
Groups and subgroups, cosets, normal subgroups and factor groups. The centre of a group, group
homomorphisms, kernel and image, isomorphisms, the fundamental theorem on homomorphisms.
Applications of the fundamental simple groups, cyclic groups and their subgroups, homomorphic
images and factor groups. permutations, cycles and transpositions, even and odd permutations,
permutation groups, the symmetric and alternating groups. Groups acting on sets; orbits, stabilizer,
cardinality of an orbit and index of the stabilizer, group action on its elements and subsets, the
centralizer of an element and its counting district conjugates. Pre-requisite: MAT 204
MAT 321: ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS I
First order equations: Analytic Methods of solution, Applications. Equations with homogeneous
coefficients. Exact Differential equations. Integrating factors and substitution methods. Linear
differential equations: Homogenous and nonhomogenous, methods of solution for equations of
constant and variable coefficients. Qualitative treatment of scalar first order equations: Slope fields,
equilibrium solutions, stability, Bifurcation, Applications. First order first degree differential equations
in three variables, Power series solutions of linear equations near ordinary points. Pre-requisite:
MAT 221, MAT 222.
MAT 322: OPERATION RESEARCH I
Formulation of linear optimization models. Graphical solution method: more than one solution,
unbounded solution, non-existence of solution. Convex analysis in En: convex combination of
vectors, hyperplanes and hyperspheres, convex functions. The simplex algorithm. Simple aspects of
sensitivity analysis. Two-phase method. Duality: concept of duality, fundamental theorem of duality,
existence theorems, economic interpretation of duality and applications. Transportation and
Assignment problems. Pre-requisite: STA 241, MAT 222.
MAT 323: NUMERICAL ANALYSIS I
Number systems. Introduction to errors. Finite differences. Interpolation based on finite difference.
Iterated interpolation. Lagrange interpolation. Numerical differentiation: extrapolation to the limit.
Numerical integration, Trapezoidal and Simpson’s rule, Newton-Cotes, Romberg formulae. Solution
of the non-linear equation f(x) = 0 including polynomial equations. Systems of non-linear equations.
Pre-requisite: MAT 121, MAT 202, MAT 221.
MAT 324: NUMERICAL ANALYSIS II
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BSc in Physics
MMU/PRO: 532001
Approximation by Taylor series, Tchebyshev series and orthogonal polynomials. Spline
approximation. Least squares approximation. Application of approximation to Gaussian and related
quadrature. Systems of linear equations: direct and iterative methods. Numerical matrix inversion.
Eigenvalues and Eigenvectors of matrices. Pre-requisite: MAT 323.
MAT 325: FLUID MECHANICS I
Fluids and their properties. Continum model. Hydrostatics and its applications. Kinematics of fluid
flow. Introductory thermodynamics. Equations of continuity. Conservation of mass and stream
function for two dimensional flows and Stoke's stream function for axisymmetric flows. Euler's
equation. Bernoulli’s equation and its application. Irrotational flow. Pre-requisite, MAT 222.
MAT 422: PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS II
, initial value problem, nonhomogeneous problem. Laplace’s Equation: Physical interpretation,
Fundamental solution, boundary value problems, Green’s function, two dimensional Laplace’s
equation. Heat Equation: Physical interpretation, fundamental solution, Integral transform methods,
Green’s function, simple reaction diffusion equations. Wave Equation: Physical interpretation,
Fundamental solution, D’Alembert’s formula, Riemann-Voltera solution, application of calculus of
variations, Kirchohoff’’s and Poisson’s formulas, Green’s function, nonhomogeneous equation. Prerequisite. MAT 421
MAT 428: MATHEMATICAL MODELLING
Mathematical models based on differential equations, integral equations, probability and stochastic
processes, optimization. Applications to be drawn from various fields: physical, engineering,
biological, socio-economic. Emphasis to be placed on the use of the computer. Pre-requisite
MAT 421, MAT 423.
SCH 100: FUNDAMENTALS OF CHEMISTRY I
Atoms: Masses of atoms, relative atomic masses, formulae of compounds formed by atoms,
Molecular masses, the mole, solutions formed by compounds, concentration of solutions,
Molarity. Redox reactions: transfer of electrons, types of redox reactions, oxidation numbers.
Electronic structure: evidence for the electronic structures of atoms, Electromagnetic radiation,
interaction with electrons, atomic spectra of hydrogen atom, electrons and orbitals, electronic
structures and periodic table. Periodic properties: s and p block elements, d-block (transition)
series, non-metals, transition. Nuclear structure and reactivity: stable and unstable isotopes;
nuclear equations; chain nuclear reactions; atomic bombs, use of radioisotopes and application
of radioactivity. Introduction to organic molecules: their structure, nomenclature, classification and
general properties. Basic reactions of aliphatic compounds: alkanes, alkynes, alkenes, alcohols,
aldehydes, ketones and carboxylic acids, Basic reactions of the benzene ring. Practicals.
~END~
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