Module Identifier PH32010  
Module Title SPECTROSCOPY  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Dr Keith Birkinshaw  
Semester Semester 1  
Other staff Dr Tudor Jenkins  
Pre-Requisite PH21010 , PH23010  
Course delivery Lecture   22 lectures  
  Workshop   2 example classes  
Assessment Course work   Examples Class 1 Deadline (by week of semester): week 4   10%  
  Course work   Examples Class 2 Deadline (by week of semester): week 9   10%  
  Exam   2 Hours end of semester examination for BSc students   80%  
  Exam   3 Hours end of semester examination for MPhys students   80%  

Module description


A familiarity with the spectrum of hydrogen atoms is expected. A brief recap of relevant aspects of prerequisite courses is followed by the relevant aspects of the underlying quantum mechanics. The spectra of H atoms, alkali metals and alkaline earths and the influence of external magnetic fields (Zeeman effect) provide the data for the study of parameters influencing atomic energy levels and transitions between them. The coupling of orbital and spin angular momenta, the Pauli Exclusion Principal, etc., are discussed and the specification of electronic states is explained. Selection rules and their consequences are presented.

Learning outcomes


After taking this module students should be able to:

Additional learning activities


Tutorials
Examples classes

Outline syllabus


ATOMS


Spectroscopy of the H atom - gross, fine and hyperfine structure; underlying quantum theory including Schrodingers equation, quantum numbers n, l, m1.   
Spin, spin-orbit coupling, total angular momentum in a single electron atom.
Many electron atoms - the Pauli Exclusion Principle.
LS coupling and jj coupling.   
Electron configuration, term symbols, Hund's rules.
Alkali and alkali earth spectra.
Helium and configuration interaction.
Zeeman effect - space quantisation.
Radiative transitions and selection rules.
Width and intensity of spectral lines.
Fine and hyperfine structure - nuclear spin.
Rydberg states.

Reading Lists

Books
** Reference Text
Gerhard Herzberg. Atomic Spectra and Atomic Structure. Dover 0486601153
AP Thorne. Spectrophysics. Chapman and Hall 0412274701
PW Atkins. Physical Chemistry. Freeman 0716728710
** Should Be Purchased
TP Softley. Atomic Spectra. OUP ISBN 0-19-855688-8