PH 440 Introduction to Atomic and Molecular Physics (Autumn 2017-18)

Instructor Name: Prof. Gopal Dixit

Course Type: Theory

Pre-requisites: Quantum Mechanics 1 & 2

Course Content:
1. Fine and Hyper-fine Structure of an Atom
2. Stark and Zeeman effect
3. Many electron atoms
4. Hartree Fock Theory
5. Photoelectric Effect, Photoionization
6. Molecular Structure
7. Molecular Spectra

Books:
Bransden and Joachain, Physics of Atoms and Molecules

Lectures: The professor used both slides and the blackboard, but slides are not very informative. No attendance policy.

Assignments/Tutorials:
Tutorials were given but were not properly discussed. Not difficult but often intensive in calculations. 

Exams and Grading:
1 Quiz (10), 1 Midsem (25), 1 Endsem (40) and 1 Course Project (25)

Pro-tips:
Exams were open-notes, but relied heavily on calculations. Strict grading of exams, partial marks were not awarded. Pay attention to homework questions casually given by the Professor during class as they were usually prominently featured in the exams.  

Personal Comments:
Try discussing the course project with the Professor during the semester, so you get an idea of
what he wants from your end. And also understands that you are working towards it and it isn't
a last minute effort.

Respondent: R. Basuhi