Modern physics
Undergraduate · Physics
Syllabus focus
Topics typically covered
Standard syllabus
Special relativity
- Postulates and Lorentz transformations
- Time dilation and length contraction
- Relativistic momentum and energy
- Mass–energy equivalence
- Spacetime diagrams and simultaneity
Quantum phenomena
- Blackbody radiation and Planck's hypothesis
- Photoelectric effect and Compton scattering
- de Broglie waves and electron diffraction
- Bohr model and atomic spectra
- Wave functions and probability interpretation
Nuclear and particle overview
- Nuclear structure and binding energy
- Radioactive decay and half-life
- Fission, fusion, and reactor basics
- Fundamental forces and particle zoo
- Accelerators and detectors introduction
STEM / applied
Medical and imaging physics
- PET and SPECT radioisotope applications
- X-ray production and attenuation
- Radiation dosimetry and protection
- MRI/NMR connection to spin and magnetism
- Laser applications in surgery and research
Technology and materials
- Semiconductor band gaps and LEDs
- Photovoltaics and photodetectors
- Carbon dating and tracer techniques
- Relativity in GPS clock corrections
- Quantum computing hype vs fundamentals
Experimental modern physics
- Franck–Hertz and Millikan oil-drop labs
- Spectrometer calibration and line identification
- Geiger counter statistics and shielding
- Muon lifetime or cosmic ray labs (where offered)
- Writing lab reports on quantum-era experiments
Study units
Each unit includes a study guide, worksheets, review, practice test, and answer key. One unit is free; subscribe for the full class.
- Special relativity
Lorentz transformations, time dilation, and mass–energy equivalence
Coming soon - Quantum phenomena
Photons, de Broglie waves, and atomic models
Coming soon - Nuclear and particle overview
Nuclear structure, decay, and fundamental particles
Coming soon
Notes
Topics reflect common upper-division physics syllabi at US colleges and universities. Prerequisites, lab pairing, and mathematical depth vary by department.