Quantum Physics and Relativity

What this unit covers

This unit sits in the Atomic, Nuclear and Modern Physics strand of Physics. Most of the material is about quantum ideas, with a smaller set on relativity. Many resources follow A-level Physics wording, such as the sets on electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena. Others read like university course notes.

The school-level core

• The Photoelectric effect mind map explains how free electrons on a metal surface absorb energy from light and break free.
• The Wave- particle duality mind map shows Einstein treating a beam of light as a series of photons.
• The notes called Quantum - Photons give the packet-of-energy idea, E = hf.
• The Fluorescence - Physics flashcards ask how mercury atoms in a fluorescent tube become excited.

The university-level core

The Quantum Mechanics mind map covers the finite square well, potential steps and barriers, the simple harmonic oscillator and the five postulates, including the properties of Hermitian operators. The Quantum Mechanics I flashcards list the time-independent Schrödinger equation and the energy eigenvalues of the infinite square well. There are also decks of key formulas for midterms and finals. Further out, you will find mind maps on Feynman Diagrams and Radiative Corrections.

Where to start

1. Begin with the Quantum Theory mind map for the background, from classical physics to the quantum break.
2. Move to the Photoelectric effect and Wave- particle duality maps.
3. Check yourself with The Photoelectric Effect quiz, then Wave-Particle Duality.
4. Use the formula flashcards, such as SAT II Physics, to practise threshold frequency, photon energy and de Broglie wavelength.
5. Finish with the relativity items, including the notes called Special Relativity and the slides on Time dilation.

Using maps and quizzes together

Read a map first to see how the ideas connect. Then take a quiz without looking and note which questions slip. Go back to the matching branch of the map and the flashcards for those points. Repeat until the gaps close.

Choose one resource below that matches your level and make a start, then add your own notes where you find something missing.