This concise and accessible book provides a detailed introduction to the fundamental principles of atomic physics at an undergraduate level. Concepts are explained in an intuitive way and the book assumes only a basic knowledge of quantum mechanics and electromagnetism. With a compact format specifically designed for students, the first part of the book covers the key principles of the subject, including the quantum theory of the hydrogen atom, radiative transitions, the shell model of multi-electron atoms, spin-orbit coupling, and the effects of external fields. The second part provides an introduction to the four key applications of atomic physics: lasers, cold atoms, solid-state spectroscopy and astrophysics. This highly pedagogical text includes worked examples and end of chapter problems to allow students to test their knowledge, as well as numerous diagrams of key concepts, making it perfect for undergraduate students looking for a succinct primer on the concepts and applications of atomic physics.
Les mer
Preface; List of symbols; Part I. Fundamental Principles: 1. Preliminary concepts; 2. Hydrogen; 3. Radiative transitions; 4. The shell model and alkali spectra; 5. Angular momentum; 6. Helium and exchange symmetry; 7. Fine structure and nuclear effects; 8. External fields: the Zeeman and Stark effects; Part II. Applications of Atomic Physics: 9. Stimulated emission and lasers; 10. Cold atoms; 11. Atomic physics applied to the solid state; 12. Atomic physics in astronomy; Appendix A. The reduced mass; Appendix B. Mathematical solutions for the hydrogen Schrödinger equation; Appendix C. Helium energy integrals; Appendix D. Perturbation theory of the Stark effect; Appendix E. Laser dynamics; Bibliography; Index.
Les mer
'Today a thorough understanding of atomic and molecular physics is surely a prerequisite for a career in astrophysics, especially now that the entire electromagnetic spectrum of many astronomical objects may be open to quantitative examination. Given the need for a sound understanding, the question becomes, how are students to develop a serious interest in atomic and molecular physics? This book by Mark Fox deserves consideration for an atomic-physics course taken by physics (and other) students in the second half of their undergraduate career … I welcome this book for its clear exposition of the basic ideas on atomic structure and spectra. … The health of spectroscopic astrophysics demands that young bright minds are brought into the field in every generation. Texts like that by Mark Fox have a crucial role to play in this context.' David L. Lambert, The Observatory
Les mer
A concise overview of the fundamental concepts and applications of atomic physics for students including examples, problems, and diagrams of key concepts.

Produktdetaljer

ISBN
9781108446310
Publisert
2018-06-14
Utgiver
Vendor
Cambridge University Press
Vekt
480 gr
Høyde
228 mm
Bredde
153 mm
Dybde
14 mm
Aldersnivå
U, P, 05, 06
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Heftet
Antall sider
292

Forfatter

Biographical note

Mark Fox is a Professor of Physics at the University of Sheffield. He is also a Fellow of the Optical Society of America, and the Institute of Physics. His research focuses on optics and photonics, and he specialises in solid-state atoms and quantum dots. He has authored two highly successful books: Optical Properties of Solids (2nd edition, 2010) and Quantum Optics: An Introduction (2005).