. "Physics"@en . . "Astronomy"@en . . "English"@en . . "external mobility"@en . . "6" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "TRUE" . . "advanced statistical mechanics - kul - see hyperlink below*"@en . . "6" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "advanced solid state physics - kul - see hyperlink below *"@en . . "6" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "advanced soft and biomatter physics kul - see hyperlink below *"@en . . "6" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "advanced nuclear physics - kul - see hyperlink below *"@en . . "6" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "advanced field theory"@en . . "6" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Astroparticle physics"@en . . "6" . "Lecture:\r\n• The expanding universe\r\n• Dark matter and dark energy in the universe\r\n• Cosmic particles\r\n• Acceleration mechanisms\r\n• Particle physics in stars\r\n• High energy cosmic rays\r\n• Neutrino astronomy.\nGENERAL COMPETENCES\r\nThe student has a basic knowledge of astroparticle physics, a field somewhere between cosmology, particle physics and astronomy. \r\nIn particular, the following competencies are introduced:\r\n- gaining insight into the problems studied in astro-particle physics, and the place this discipline occupies among the other sub-disciplines\r\n- interpreting results of experiments and communicating them to colleagues\r\n- being able to work independently\r\n- acquiring attitude of lifelong learning" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Atomic and molecular physics"@en . . "6" . "The aim of this course is to build the quantum-mechanical formalism required for the\r\ntheoretical interpretation of the atomic and molecular spectra.\r\n• One-electron atoms : Fine structure and hyperfine structure: Spin-orbit interaction,\r\n• Darwin term, Selection rules for electric dipole transitions, Hyperfine structure and\r\n• isotope shifts\r\n• Interaction of one-electron atoms with external electric and magnetic field: Stark\r\n• effect, Zeeman effect, Strong fields: Paschen-Back effect\r\n• The atomic and molecular Hamiltonian: The molecular Hamiltonian, Atomic Units,\r\n• Born-Oppenheimer approximation\r\n• Two electron atoms: The Schrodinger equation for two electron atoms, He in the\r\n• independent particle model (IPM), Time independent perturbation correction to IPM,\r\n• Effective nuclear charge, Hartree-Fock for He, Electron correlation, Spin wave\r\n• function Pauli exlusion principle, Statistics of indistinguishable particles, Level\r\n• scheme of two-electron atoms\r\n• Many electron atoms: Central field approximation, Pauli exclusion principle and\r\n• Slaterdeterminants, Labeling Atomic States, Configuration, term, level and state,\r\n• Hund's Rules, The Hartree-Fock approximation, Corrections to the central field\r\n• approximation (L-S and j-j coupling)\r\n• Interaction of many electron atoms with electromagnetic radiation\r\n• Molecular structure: General nature of molecular structure, Molecular spectra,\r\n• Diatomic molecules - Symmetry properties, Molecular Term Symbols- The hydrogen\r\n• molecular ion - Correlation Diagrams, The Molecular orbital idea, Bonding and\r\n• antibonding molecular orbitals, Molecular orbital theory for homonuclear diatomics,\r\n• Molecular hydrogen within LCAO approximation, Photoelectron spectrum :\r\n• experimental proof for MOs, Heteronuclear molecules, Molecular Symmetry - Point\r\n• Groups, Polyatomic molecules, Vibration-Rotation spectroscopy\r\nNon-relativistic advanced quantum mechanics and perturbation theory (stationary and\r\ntime dependent) - electromagnetism.\nFINAL competences: 1 To be able to model atoms and molecules with quantum mechanical methods.\r\n2 Being able to interprete atomic and molecular spectra." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Capita selecta solid-state physics"@en . . "6" . "In the first lectures in the series, properties and applications of semiconductors are further\nstudied, along with research techniques for studying defects in semiconductors.\nThe remaining lectures cover diverse topics in contemporary solid state research at Ghent\nUniversity and other universities and research institutions. These topics may vary form year to\nyear and are given by given (on campus or online) by UGent and external guest lecturers. \nFinal competences:\n1 Able to follow and understand lectures on solid state research at an advanced level.\r\n2 Knowledge on how to deal with the information provided in scientific talks.\r\n3 Understanding of the possibilities, applicability and importance of the research methods\r\n1 taught." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Complexity and criticality"@en . . "6" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Computational materials physics"@en . . "6" . "Following a global discussion of the typical aspects of simulations at the quantum scale vs.\r\nsimulations at the microscale, you will be introduced to the workhorse method for quantum\r\nsimulations: density functional theory (DFT). This includes right from the start hands-on work\r\nwith a DFT code. The code is free and open source, which guarantees that you can keep using\r\nit later in your education, research or job. We’ll focus first on predicting structural properties of\r\ncrystalline materials. At this point the course bifurcates and you can choose one of these two\r\ntracks: continuing with simulations at the quantum scale for electronic, magnetic and other\r\nproperties of crystals, or stepping up to the microscale for simulations of a different kind about\r\nstructural dependent properties or microstructural evolutions.\nFinal competences:\n1 Being able to explain the concepts behind density-functional theory and the major simulation strategies at the micro scale.\r\n2 Using a general-purpose density-functional theory code to calculate basic properties of a given solid.\r\n3 Being able to understand and to critically evaluate research literature in which the simulation methods used in this course are applied.\r\n4 Evaluating the precision and accuracy of different simulation methods for a given solid and given property.\r\n5 Formulating a sound simulation strategy to address a materials problem." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Computational physics"@en . . "6" . "This course is an introduction to the major methods in numerical analysis, insisting on those methods that play an important role in theoretical and applied physics. The course considers the following topics. Chapter 1 summarizes the properties of the continuous and discrete Fourier transform and the application to digital filtering. The second Chapter presents the basic interpolation techniques, including Shannon sampling and Splines. Chapter 3 introduces numerical integration and deals also with the Monte-Carlo method and its application to nuclear physics. Chapter 4 deals with the numerical solution of ordinary differential equations, and Chapter 5 gives a very short discussion of integral equations. Optimization methods are presented in Chapter 6, with specific details over the optimization of quadratic functions. Chapter 7 introduces unsupervised learning techniques, in particular principal component analysis and clustering methods.\nGENERAL COMPETENCIES\r\ni/ Knowledge of the basic methods in numerical analysis.\r\nii/ Initial experimentation with the concrete analysis and treatment of examples of simple problems in physics." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Computational physics: advanced monte carlo methods"@en . . "3" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Computational physics: molecular dynamics simulations"@en . . "3" . "no data" . . "Presential"@en . "TRUE" . . "Continuum mechanics"@en . . "6" . "• Basic concepts regarding Cartesian tensors, Lagrangian and Eulererian coordinates\n• Strain tensor, deformation, conservation laws, constitutive equations\n• Linear elasticity, Navier equations\n• Newtonian fluid mechanics, Navier-Stokes equations, ideal fluids, vorticity\n• Viscous fluids, laminar flow, turbulent flow, boundary layer, aerodynamics\n• Thermodynamics of continua\n• Applications of the Euler equations: solar wind, stellar stability, Newtonian cosmology\n• Waves and solitons (Korteweg-de Vries)\n• Electromagnetic continuum in plasmas, magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), plasma waves\n• Concepts from modern differential geometry: vector fields and differential forms, tensor\n• analysis, Riemannian geometry\n• Nonlinear continua\n• Structural elements: beams, plates and shells\n• Geometry and gauge theory in fluid mechanics\n• Relativistic continuum, energy-momentum tensor, Einstein field equations, cosmology.\nFinal competences:\n1 The student has gained insight in the foundations of the mechanics of continuous media.\r\n2 The student has gained appreciation for the interdisciplinary character of the domain of\r\ncontinuum mechanics and of the common applicability of the underlying physical principles\r\nand the mathematical formalism in the multiple specialties wherein applications were\r\nprovided.\r\n3 The student is able to use the acquired expertise to translate physical problems into\r\nmathematical models and, conversely, to interpret mathematical conclusions in a physical context.\r\n4 The student has acquired arithmetic skills, both analytical and by computer, allowing him/herto solve new problems in continuum mechanics, starting from the insight gained.\r\n5 The student has acquired the necessary skills to commence a more specialized study in each of the subdisciplines discussed." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Cosmology and galaxy formation"@en . . "6" . "The course starts with an overview of the phenomenology of galaxies and of cosmological\r\nobservations (large-scale distribution of galaxies, the Hubble expansion, the accelerating\r\nuniverse, ...). Friedman-Lemaitre models for the dynamics of the universe. Evolution of cosmic\r\nstructure, from the primordial density fluctuations left over after inflation to the formation of\r\nvirialised objects, such as galaxies. Effects due to cold and/or hot dark matter. Numerical\r\nsimulations of structure formation. Recent observations of the power spectrum of the\r\nmicrowave background temperature fluctuations. Determination of the cosmological\r\nparameters and the concordance model. Shortcomings of this model and possible alternatives.\nFinal competences: \n1 Learn to apply the astronomical research method, which is usually based on observations and not on experiments, to this specific topic.\r\n2 Learn how to calculate certain observable quantities within the context of a simple cosmological model.\r\n3 Know how to apply methods drawn from other physical theories (e.g. general relativity or particle physics) to cosmological theories.\r\n4 Gain insight in the limitations of current cosmological theories.\r\n5 Learn to appreciate and communicate the philosophical and social importance of the subject" . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Early universe cosmology"@en . . "6" . "1. The Expanding Universe\r\n\r\nKinematics and dynamics of expanding universe (cosmic evolution, Hubble law, Friedmann eqs)\r\nPropagation of light and horizons (geodesics, conformal diagrams, luminosity, redshift, distance)\r\ncomposition of the universe, status cosmological observations\r\n2. The Early Hot Universe\r\n\r\nThermal history\r\nCosmological nucleosynthesis\r\n3. Structure formation\r\n\r\nGravitational Instability in Newtonian theory (Jeans theory)\r\nGravitational Instability in General Relativity (cosmological perturbation theory, halo formation,…)\r\n4. Inflation\r\n\r\nThree puzzles (flatness, horizon, monopoles)\r\nSlow-roll inflation\r\nInflation as origin of cosmological fluctuations\r\n5. Anisotropies in the Microwave Sky\r\n\r\nGeneralities\r\nTemperature fluctuations: scalar and tensor modes\r\nPolarization\r\nObservations\r\n6. Quantum cosmology: which universe and why?\nGENERAL COMPETENCIES\r\nThe student becomes acquainted with the general theory of modern, relativistic cosmology and its observational vindication. This includes the thermal and nuclear history of our expanding universe, as well as the formation of large-scale structures like galaxies from seeds generated in a primordial era of inflation. The student learns to appreciate the development of relativistic cosmology in the historical context of 20th century physics." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Electroweak and strong interactions"@en . . "6" . "The Standard Model of Elementary Particle Physics provides an excellent theoretical description of elementary matter particles and their interactions through the electroweak and strong forces. Important notions such as (chiral) gauge theories and the Brout-Englert-Higgs mechanism are introduced and applied to the Standard Model. Ample time is spent to the Brout-Englert-Higgs particle and its phenomenology. Flavor physics (CKM matrix, CP violation) and neutrino physics (Majorana and Dirac masses, masses for neutrinos, see-saw mechanism, neutrino oscillations) are thoroughly treated.\r\n\r\nIn the last part of the course we turn our attention to \"beyond the Standard Model physics\". After analyzing the shortcomings of the Standard Model and introducing regularization, renormalization and the running of coupling constants, we end with an introduction to grand unified theories and supersymmetric extensions of the Standard Model.\r\n\r\nBecause of de flood of new experimental data coming from the LHC and other experiments, the contents of the course is continously adapted to the lates insights.\nGENERAL COMPETENCIES\r\nThe course aims at giving the student a thorough microscopic understanding of elementary matter particles and their interactions through the electroweak and strong forces. Upon completion the student should be able to follow the most recent advances in elementary particle physics.\r\n\r\nBy studying certain scientific publications and presentations the student gets in touch with the current developments in the field.\r\n\r\nAmple attention is given to the methodology which led to the Standard Model of Particle Physics. \r\n\r\nThe exercises and the final paper allow the student to model and analytically treat complex physical phenomena." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Evolution of stars and stellar systems"@en . . "6" . "Observations of stars with similar spectral characteristics are linkted to theoretical evolutionary phases of single stars and of binaries. We investigate how to calculte theoretical fractions of stars with similar characteristics and we discuss the influence of physical parameters that critically affect the theoretical predictions. The predictions are then compared to the most recent observations. Finally, we discuss how the various types of stars and stellar populations affect the evolution of galaxies (chemical evolution) and we distinguish elliptical galaxies (single starburst galaxies) and spiral galaxies where starformation proceeds continuously in time.\nALGEMENE COMPETENTIES\r\nTo acquire sufficient knowledge in order to start a masterthesis or a PhD within the research group of the Theoretical Astrophysics of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Indeed, the main research subject of the group is the study of large groups of stars, how they evolve, how they contribute to the overal evolution of galaxies." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Experimental techniques in particle physics"@en . . "6" . "A review is given on modern particle detector technologies. Challenges and techniques regarding signal readout and data aggregation are discussed. Next, we will focus on reconstruction of collected data, for example reconstruction of tracks of charged particles and other high-level physics objects. Beyond that, we elaborate on techniques of data analysis and interpretion. The course focuses on particle physics experiments eg. around the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN.\nGENERAL COMPETENCES\r\nThe student has acquired in-depth knowledge on the aggregation, reconstruction, and analysis of data with modern particle-detection techniques at particle-physics experiments. Therefore, the student will be equipped with tools to perform research at for example particle accelerators." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Extensions of the standard model"@en . . "6" . "We start with an overview of the problems of the Standard Model in being a complete theory of particle physics. Some experimental measured properties provide a strong constraint on the range of models to go beyond the Standard Model. We will discuss those both from the theoretical and experimental perspective. This we use as a motivation to propose different models to overcome at least some of the problems of the Standard Model. We discuss for example Grand Unification Theories, Dark Matter, Supersymmetry, and mechanisms to generate neutrino masses, and discuss anomalies and aspects of effective field theory. We provide the connection to experimental tests and the current status in the field.\nALGEMENE COMPETENTIES\r\nThe student obtains insight in the diverse theoretical possibilities to expand the Standard Model of elementary particle physics. The student will be able to calculate and make interpretations within the framework of these models. The student will be able to translate these models into phenomenology relevant for experimental testing, and obtain an overview of the state-of-the-art in the experimental verification of various extensions of the standard model." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "General relativity"@en . . "6" . "The first half of the course focuses on the foundations of general relativity, including the underlying mathematical formalism (basic concepts of differential geometry).\n\nThe second half focuses on a selection of important applications (black holes, gravitational waves, cosmology).\nGENERAL COMPETENCIES\r\nCompleting this course should enable students to\r\nexplain main concepts and results in general relativity, Einstein's description of gravity;\r\napply this understanding in practical calculations;\r\nunderstand main aspects of the physics of black holes, gravitational waves;\r\ntake on more advanced topics in general relativity, black hole physics, cosmology." . . "Presential"@en . "TRUE" . . "Hadrons and nuclei from a theoretical perspective"@en . . "6" . "1. Introduction: Overview of energy and length scales in subatomic physics./ Nucleons as point\r\nparticles. Different components of the nuclear force./ Hadronic degrees of freedom: baryons\r\nand mesons./ Quark-gluon structure of baryons and mesons.\r\n2. Mathematical and computational tools: Angular momentum algebra. Spherical tensor\r\noperators and Wigner-Eckart theorem. Permutation symmetry./ Second quantization. meanfield approximation. Overview of \"beyond mean-field\" techniques./ Relativistic mean field.\r\n3. Models for the nucleus: Realistic nucleon-nucleon interactions. Short-range repulsion.\r\nNuclear matter./ The deuteron and \"few-nucleon\" systems./ The shell model for complex nuclei.\r\n/ Collective motion./ Pairing and superfluidity in nuclei.\r\n4. Electroweak interactions with nuclei: Current-current theorie./ Electroweak nucleon currents./\r\nElectroweak quark currents./ Multipole analysis and long-wavelength approximation./ Neutrino\r\ninteractions with nuclei./ Final-state interactions.\r\n5. Electroweak interactions with nucleons: Quark models./ Nucleon spectrum./ Electromagnetic\r\nand weak nucleon formfactors./ Pion formfactors./ Transition formfactors and helicity\r\namplitudes./ Deep inelastic scattering./ Duality.\nFinal competences:\n1 Able to determine the relevant degrees-of-freedom at the various subatomic scales.\r\n2 Skilled in the use of 3j-, 6j- and 9j-symbols.\r\n3 Able to link models for nucleon-nucleon interactions to scattering experiments and the structure of the deuteron.\r\n4 To grasp the limitations and the successes of the nuclear shell model.\r\n5 Able to understand the microscopic foundations of collective motion in nuclei.\r\n6 Familiarity with the theoretical framework for electroweak interactions with nucleons and nuclei.\r\n7 Fully understand why the electromagnetic probe is such a powerful tool to learn about the structure of nuclei and nucleons.\r\n8 Skilled in the use of the multipole expansion of current-current interaction hamiltonians.\r\n9 Explain the link between hadron and quark models." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "High-energy astrophysics"@en . . "6" . "Course Content\r\n1. Introduction to high-energy Universe: astrophysical objects & observational methods\r\n\r\n2. Gas dynamics, accretion flows, Bondi accretion, Roche lobe overflow & accretion discs\r\n\r\n3. Radiation mechanisms: Bremsstrahlung, synchrotron & inverse Compton radiation\r\n\r\n4. Supernova remnants, astrophysical shocks & particle acceleration\r\n\r\nALGEMENE COMPETENTIES\r\n1. Knowlegde of the astrophysical objects and observational methods of the high-energy Universe.\r\n\r\n2. Understanding of gas dynamics, accretion flows and shocks.\r\n\r\n3. Understanding of Bremstrahlung, synchrotron emission and Inverse Compton scattering in an astrophysical context.\r\n\r\n4. Understanding of particle acceleration in astrophysical shocks." . . "Presential"@en . "TRUE" . . "History and philosophy of sciences: physics and astronomy"@en . . "6" . "The second part focusses on specific aspects from the history of\nphysics and astronomy. The genesis of Newton's classical mechanics is discussed. Further\nevolutions within mathematical physics in the period after Newton up till the twentieth century\nare treated. Philosophical questions having to do with the use of mathematical methods in the\nstudy of empirical phenomena are also raised. Next to this, an overview is offered of different\nmethods that have been used throughout history by astronomers to determine astronomical\ndistances, with new estimates having often profound impact on our image of the universe. \nFinal competences\n1 Being able to correctly assess the philosophical and scientific implications of\r\n1 underdetermination of theories by empirical evidence.\r\n2 Being able to correctly assess the philosophical and scientific implications of theory1 ladenness.\r\n3 Being able to explain the impact of underdetermination in historical case studies.\r\n4 Being able to explain the impact of theory-ladenness in historical case studies.\r\n5 Develop a reflective attitude that can be incorporated in one's own scientific practice.\r\n6 Possess knowledge about the historical development of physics and astronomy.\r\n7 Have insight in philosophical questions raised by historical developments within physics &\r\n1 astronomy." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Introduction to the dynamics of atmospheres"@en . . "6" . "1. Forces on air parcels\n2. The dynamical equations\n3. Elementary properties of atmospheric motion (geostrophic wind, potential temperature,\nadiabatic temperature gradient,static stability, gradient wind, thermal wind, barotropic vs.\nbaroclinic atmosphere)\n4. Circulation and vorticity\n5. Quasi geostrophic analysis\n6. Linear perturbation theory\n7. Baroclinic instabilities\n8. The influence of the planetary boundary layer\n9. General circulation\nFinal competences:\n1 Apply continuum mechanics to atmospheres in general.\r\n2 Notion of the problems in atmosheric dynamics.\r\n3 Connect concepts in thermodynamics to meteorology.\r\n4 Give a mathematical formulation for phenomena of dynamcis of fluids.\r\n5 Investigate flows in the atmosphere by apllication of physical laws and principles.\r\n6 Distinguish and explain various types of flows in the atmosphere.\r\n7 Explain and interprete graphs and diagrams related to the dynamics of atmospheres.\r\n8 Understand the importance of mathematical analytical and numerical modeling in the context\r\n1 of meteorology.\r\n9 Identifying and applying the right approach to gain the insight in synoptic-scale disturbances\r\n1 and energy transfers in the general circulation." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Lasers"@en . . "4" . "CHAPTER 1: THE BASICS\r\n\r\nBasic laser physics: Introduction; Absorption; Spontaneous and stimulated emission of light; Amplification; Basic laser setup; Gain, saturation and line broadening\r\nBasic properties of laser light: One direction; One frequency; One phase; Laser light is intense\r\nCHAPTER 2: LASER THEORY\r\n\r\nIntroduction: The need for more than two energy levels; Rate equations for a 4-level laser\r\nContinuous-wave (cw) laser action: Output power in cw regime; Influence of experimental parameters; Transients \r\nPulsed laser action: Introduction; Gain switching; Q-switching; Cavity dumping; Mode-locking; Ultra-short pulses\r\nCHAPTER 3: LASER RESONATORS AND THEIR MODES\r\n\r\nIntroduction\r\nModes in a confocal resonator: Wave fronts; Frequencies; Transverse light distribution\r\nModes in a non-confocal resonator: Stability criteria; Frequencies\r\nModes in a waveguide resonator: Modes in a fiber waveguide resonator; Modes in an on-chip waveguide resonator\r\nModes in a (free-space/waveguide) ring resonator\r\nModes in a real laser: Line broadening; Selection of modes\r\nSaturation and hole-burning effects: Spatial hole burning; Spectral hole burning\r\nCHAPTER 4: LASER BEAMS\r\n\r\nGaussian beams: Basic Formulas; Propagation; Transformation by a lens and focusing; Transmission through a circular aperture\r\nMultimode beams: Introduction; Spot radius W for a multimode beam; Beam Propagation Factor M; A more theoretical approach; Practical use\r\nCHAPTER 5: TYPES OF LASERS\r\n\r\nGeneral introduction\r\nGas lasers: General; Neutral gas (He-Ne); Ionized gas (argon ion); Molecules (CO2); Excimer lasers (ArF)\r\nLiquid lasers (dye laser)\r\nSolid-state lasers: General; Rare-earth-doped lasers (Nd:YAG and Er:fiber); Transition-metal-doped lasers (Ti: Sapphire); Changing the wavelength by optical nonlinear effects\r\nOther lasing mechanisms: Raman lasing\r\nCHAPTER 6: LASER DIODES:OPERATION PRINCIPLES\r\n\r\nGeometry and important characteristics\r\nMaterial aspects: heterostructures, gain and absorption, low dimensional materials,\r\nGain saturation\r\nFabry-Perot laser diodes: cavity resonance\r\nFabry-Perot laser diodes: rate equations and dynamic operation\r\nNoise: power spectrum and phase noise, injection locking\r\nCHAPTER 7: OVERVIEW OF SEMICONDUCTOR LASER TYPES\r\n\r\nDistributed Feedback and Distributed Bragg Reflector laser diodes\r\nVertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser diodes\r\nTunable laser diodes\r\nQuantum cascade lasers\r\nLaser diode packaging\r\nThis course is part of the European Master of Science in Photonics. Chapters 1 to 5 are taught by N. Vermeulen, both at VUB and UGent. Chapters 6-7 are taught by G. Verschaffelt at VUB and by G. Morthier at UGent.\nALGEMENE COMPETENTIES\r\nCONTEXT AND GENERAL AIM:\r\n\r\nSince their invention in 1960, lasers have become the most important light sources in optics and photonics, and are present everywhere in modern society nowadays. For example, worldwide telecommunication is based on the transmission of laser signals through optical fibers, and today’s manufacturing industry heavily relies on the use of high-irradiance laser beams. Other application domains include medicine, art restoration, remote sensing, biological spectroscopy, and many others. It is the general aim of this course that the students will become able to explain and analyse laser properties and laser-related concepts, that they learn to construct and analyse the mathematical description of important concepts, and that they are also able to apply the latter to practical examples on the use of lasers.\r\n\r\nEND COMPETENCES:\r\n\r\nThe targeted end competences can be categorized as follows:\r\n\r\nThe students are able to name, describe and explain laser properties and concepts, including:\r\nspontaneous and stimulated emission, absorption, coherence, heterostructures for efficient light generation, light propagation in a resonator, continuous-wave and pulsed laser action, line broadening, saturation, Gaussian laser beams, operation and applications of different laser types (gas lasers, liquid lasers, solid-state lasers, semiconductor lasers), laser dynamics, noise, Bragg gratings, wavelength tuning, laser packaging.\r\n\r\nThe students have the ability to derive from first principles the mathematical description for laser-related concepts, including:\r\nrate equations describing the general operation principle of laser action and formulas for continuous-wave/pulsed laser operation, formulas for the modes in different types of resonators with different stability criteria, equations for propagation and transformation of Gaussian and multimode laser beams in optical systems, laser rate equations for different types of semiconductor lasers, formulas describing the gain and complex refractive index in semiconductor materials, description of the linewidth of lasers, formulas for the dynamic behaviour of lasers.\r\n\r\nThe students know how to explain and analyse the above-enlisted mathematical descriptions for laser-related concepts.\r\nThe students are able to apply the mathematical descriptions to practical examples and to use these descriptions to solve practical problems.\r\nEXAM:\r\n\r\nThe students are evaluated according to the above-enlisted end competences in an oral exam with written preparation (open questions, closed book)." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Luminescence"@en . . "6" . "Theoretical background of luminescence\r\n• Configuration coordinate diagram, selection rules, transition probabilities, energy transfer,\r\n• decay behaviour, thermal behaviour\r\n• Lanthanide based luminescence (europium, cerium, erbium, terbium,...)\r\n• Transition metal based luminescence (manganese, chromium,...)\r\n• Other luminescent ions (lead, bismuth, antimony,...)\r\n• Luminescence in organic compounds\r\n• Synthesis and characterization of phosphors\r\n• Up-conversion and quantum cutting\r\n• Dopant-host interactions\r\n• Quantum confinement and quantum dots\r\n• Colour perception and eye sensitivity\r\nTypes of luminescence\r\n• Photoluminescence (PL)\r\n• Electroluminescence (EL): AC and DX powder electroluminescence, thin film\r\n• electroluminescence, LEDs\r\n• Cathodoluminescence: principle, usage as analytical technique, in combination with electron\r\n• microscopy\r\nCredits 6.0 Study time 180 h\r\nTeaching languages\r\nKeywords\r\nPosition of the course\r\nContents\r\nCourse size (nominal values; actual values may depend on programme)\r\n(Approved) 1\r\nAccess to this course unit via a credit contract is determined after successful competences assessment\r\nThis course unit cannot be taken via an exam contract\r\nend-of-term and continuous assessment\r\nexamination during the second examination period is possible\r\nParticipation, assignment\r\nLecture, seminar, independent work\r\n• Thermoluminescence (TL)\r\n• Persistent luminescence\r\n• Radioluminescence (RL)\r\n• Other forms (mechanoluminescence, triboluminescence, chemiluminescence,\r\n• bioluminescence, sonoluminescence)\r\nApplications of luminescence\r\n• Historic development of luminescent materials\r\n• Phosphors for cathode ray tubes\r\n• LEDs and phosphors for white LEDs\r\n• OLEDs\r\n• Lasers\r\n• Phosphors for medical imaging and storage phosphors\r\n• Scintillator phosphors and phosphors for radiation detectors\r\n• Afterglow phosphors\r\nDefect characterization of semiconductors\nFinal competences:\n1 Have a thorough knowledge and insight in luminescent processes in condensed matter and the newest scientific developments in this context.\r\n2 Identifying and understanding coherence between luminescence and other relevant science domains, such as atomic and molecular physics, group theory and quantum mechanics.\r\n3 Being able to analyze, critically evaluate and structure information available in scientific literature on luminescence.\r\n4 Communicate on new developments and underlying theories of relevant luminescence processes and applications, with experts and non-experts." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Many-body physics"@en . . "6" . "Second quantization for fermions and bosons. Two-paricle states and interactions. Mean-field\r\ntechniques. Perturbation series for the single-particle propagator. Feynman diagrams. Dyson\r\nequation, two-particle propagator and vertex function. Nonperturbative aspects. Hartree-Fock in\r\natoms and molecules. Study of second-order selfenergy: static and dynamic contributions.\r\nQuasiparticles in Landau-Migdal framework. Excited states. Collective motion. Random phase\r\napproximation. Plasmon excitations in the electron gas. Repulsive short-range interactions.\r\nLadder diagrams. Saturation in nuclear matter. Boson systems. Bose-Einstein condensation.\r\nGross-Pitaevskii equation for ultracold atomic gases. Bogoliubov perturbation theory.\r\nHugenholtz-Pines theorem. first-order results for dilute Bose gas. Superfluidity in Helium-4.\r\nPairing in fermion systems. BCS theory and metallic superconductivity. Non-Fermi liquids.\nFinal competences:\n1 Familiarity with a number of basic concepts in quantum many body systems and condensed matter physics.\r\n2 Having an overview about different phases of quantum matter, and the associated phenomenology (gapless edge modes, topological entanglement entropy,…)\r\n3 Ability to read scientific papers about recent developments and to start research in this field." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Medical physics"@en . . "6" . "Interaction of non-ionizing electromagnetic waves with matter and tissues\r\n• physical models\r\n• relaxation processes\r\n• effects of low-frequent ( 100 kHz) and high-frequent (>100 kHz) radiowaves.\r\n• interactions with ultraviolet radiation.\r\nInteraction of ionizing electromagnetic waves with matter and tissues\r\n• fundamental interactions at the atomic level: photoelectric effect, compton scattering,\r\n• pair formation\r\n• attenuation and absorption of X-rays\r\n• effects at cellular level\r\n• dosimetry of ionizing radiation: exposure, kerma, absorbed dose, equivalent dose,\r\n• effective dose\r\nConventional imaging in radiology\r\n• screen-film technology for conventional radiography and mammography\r\n• digital radiology: computed radiography and direct read-out radiography\r\n• analysis of image quality, CAD\r\n• patient dosimetry\r\nComputed Tomography\r\n• CT-technology: spiral CT, multi-slice CT\r\n• 3D-applications, CAD\r\n• image quality analysis\r\n• patient dosimetry\r\nInterventional radiology and cardiology \r\n• physical principles of fluoroscopy and cinegraphy with image intensifiers\r\n• flat-panel systems in interventional radiology/cardiology\r\n• cone-beam CT\r\n• CT-angiography\r.\n• patient dosimetry\r\nUltrasound\r\n• physical models of interaction of sound waves with matter and tissues\r\n• acoustic impedance\r\n• ultrasound: principles and image formation chain\r\nMagnetic resonance imaging\r\n• MR models\r\n• MR relaxation in tissues\r\n• MR signals and diffusion\r\n• field gradients for location in space\r\nNuclear medicine\r\n• overview of radioactive decay modes\r\n• production of radionuclides for medical purposes: cyclotron, reactor\r\n• nuclear medical imaging: gammacamera, SPECT, PET\r\n• therapeutis applications of radionuclides\r\n• patient dosimetry in nuclear medicine\r\nRadiotherapy\r\n• Medical linear accelerator\r\n• Absolute dose determination\r\n• Patient dosimetry: treatment planning.\nFinal competences:\n1 Understand the physical concepts used in medicine.\r\n2 Describe the physical operation of medical imaging instruments.\r\n3 Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of medical imaging techniques.\r\n4 Apply the principles of radiation dosimetry in different clinical disciplines.\r\n5 Be aware of the need of a medical physicist in a hospital environment." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Modeling complex systems"@en . . "6" . "General introduction about linear versus nonlinear dynamics.\r\nDynamical systems with one variable.\r\nBifurcations in one variable systems: saddle-node, cusp, transcritical and imperfect bifurcations.\r\nBifurcations on the circle, synchronisation.\r\nLinear dynamics with two variables: classification of the fixed points (saddle, node, center, degenerate).\r\nNonlinear dynamics with two variables: phase space analysis, reversibility, Lyapunov function, theory of the index.\r\nLimit cycles: relaxation oscillations, singular perturbation.\r\nChaos: Lorentz model and analysis.\r\nOne dimensional maps: bifurcations, period doubling and intermittency route to chaos, universality.\r\nFractals: self-similarity, fractal dimension.\r\nStrange attractors: stretching and folding, baker’s map, Henon map.\r\nPattern formation.\nALGEMENE COMPETENTIES\r\nThe overall objective of this course is to be able to analyze dynamical systems using geometrical methods on the phase space. This includes carrying out linear stability, bifurcation and phase plane analyses. We will first focus on one and two dimensional systems. Chaotic phenomena in physical systems will be described with two classical examples: the Lorentz strange attractor and the logistic map. Solving problems and reading literature related to the course material is also foreseen." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Modelling and engineering of nanoscale materials"@en . . "6" . "Engineering applications rely more and more on highly specialized materials exhibiting unique\r\nfunctionalities. In recent years, for example, advanced functional materials such as hybrid\r\nperovskites, metal-organic frameworks, and covalent organic frameworks have proven\r\ninvaluable to overcome many of the challenges associated with the development of highperformance photovoltaics, efficient heat management systems or stimulus-responsive sensor\r\nmaterials. The rational design of such advanced functional materials requires insight at the\r\natomic level. In this respect, molecular modelling is an interdisciplinary field that allows gaining\r\ninformation on the physical phenomena that govern the behaviour of these materials at the\r nanoscale. It has attracted increasing interest due to the systematically growing computer\r\ncapabilities and the continuous optimization of physical models and numerical algorithms. The\r\napplication fields are very diverse, going from chemistry, molecular physics, solid-state physics,\r\nand materials physics to nanophysics.\r\nIn this course, nanoscale modelling techniques are introduced by building upon concepts from\r\nquantum mechanics, statistical physics, and atomic and molecular physics, focusing on the\r\napplicability of these concepts and the rational approximations necessary to model real-life\r\nnanostructured materials with industrial relevance. To model these nanosized functional\r\nmaterials, a variety of simulation techniques are discussed and applied in this course. These\r\nmodelling techniques vary from quantum mechanics based methods, which are ideally suited to\r\nstudy complex nanosystems of limited sizes or at restricted time scales, to classical force field\r\nbased methods, which are able to describe phenomena taking place on the microsecond scale\r\nin systems of several tens of nanometers in size. These techniques are then applied to study\r\nstructural, mechanical, spectroscopic, and thermal properties of molecules and solids. The\r\ncourse focuses on the development of functional materials for engineering applications in the\r\nconversion and storage of energy, the sensing of chemical and physical stimuli, and heat\r\nmanagement on the nanoscale. The student will learn to work with different software packages\r\nwhich are commonly used in scientific research.\nThe most common strategy to model nanoscale systems is to apply the Born-Oppenheimer\r\napproximation, in which the electronic and nuclear degrees of freedom are decoupled. The\r\nenergy of the system then reduces to a parametric function of the position of the atomic nuclei.\r\nThe resulting multidimensional energy hypersurface is referred to as the potential energy\r\nsurface (PES) and governs the structural flexibility of the considered material. This course\r\ndemonstrates how the PES can be constructed from quantum mechanical information\r\n(electronic-structure methods) or more approximate techniques (force fields), and how\r\nadequate sampling of the PES allows recovering macroscopic properties of the material. These\r\nmethods are used to gain insight into materials behaviour at the nanoscale and develop design\r\nstrategies based on atomic information.\r\nThe course consists of the following main parts:\r\n1 Introduction to molecular modelling: typical engineering applications, typical time and length\r\n1 scales, interatomic interactions\r\n2 Sampling techniques to derive macroscopic properties from the potential energy surface:\r\n1 normal-mode analysis, partition functions, molecular dynamics, rare-event sampling\r\n1 schemes, Monte Carlo approaches, vibrational spectroscopy\r\n3 Many-body electronic-structure methods: Hartree-Fock, post-Hartree-Fock, density1 functional theory, electronic spectroscopy\r\n4 Basis sets for the description of electronic states: localized basis sets, plane-wave basis\r\n1 sets, pseudopotentials, projector-augmented wave method\r\n5 Molecular mechanics to model larger systems on longer time scales: force field methods,\r\n1 atom-in-molecule partitioning\r\n6 First-principles materials design to rationally identify materials with outstanding performance\r\n1 in, for instance thermal engineering (thermal conductivity, heat capacity), mechanical\r\n1 engineering (elastic constants, structural flexibility), electronic engineering (band gap, charge\r\n1 carrier mobility, UV/visible/infrared spectrum)\r." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Nanomagnetism"@en . . "6" . "Advanced course in solid state physics. This course aims at giving the students the basic\ningredients to understand the contempory research going on in the field of magnetism and\nmagnetic nanostrures. Emphasis is laid on research related to activities in Gent.1 Introduction: Modern magnetism: what, why and how\n2 Basic concepts of magnetism: magnetic ordering and phase transitions – exchange\ninteraction – magnetic anisotropies - magnetostatics – magnetic microstructure: domains\nand domainwalls – magnetization dynamics: Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation\n3 Experimental and computational techniques: Interaction with Light - X-rays – Neutrons,\nMicromagnetic simulations\n4 Magnetism on the nanoscale: magnetostatics – magnetic inferfaces: exchange bias and\n magnetic multilayers - magnetization dynamics: spin wave modes – spin dependent\n transport (GMR, TMR) - spin transfer torque.\n5 Discussion of research papers\nBasic knowledge of quantum mechanics, material science, solid state physics.\nAcquiring a fundamental knowledge on magnetism and be able to apply it to the field of nanomagnetism.\nUnderstanding the principles of the experimental and computation mehtods used to study magnetic systems.\nHaving an overview of the new concepts and challenges in the contemporary magnetism research." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Nuclear astrophysics"@en . . "6" . "• Relevant aspects of astronomy : observed abundances of elements ; Hertzsprung-Russell\n• diagram; Hubble law; cosmic radiation, telescopes.\n• Elements of nuclear physics: nuclear processes relevant to astrophysics, relevant\n• experiments, neutrinos and oscillations, the MSW effect.\n• Basic principles of stellar structure.\n• Big Bang nucleosynthesis.\n• Nucleosynthesis in stars : principles; stellar reaction rates and their determination;\n• thermonuclear reactions, including H, He, C, Ne, O and Si burning; nucleosynthesis beyond\n• iron: mechanism, s-, r- and p-process ; Stellar evolution. Supernovae: observation and\n• mechanism. Nuclear reactions in the sun: the standard solar model; the problem of the solar\n• neutrinos.\n• Galactic chemical evolution. Nucleocosmochronology.\nFinal competences:\n1 Describe the main mechanisms for nucleosynthesis in the universe.\n2 Show clear understanding of the role of the interplay between nuclear structure and reactions on one hand and stellar structure and evolution on the other, in stellar nucleosynthesis.\r\n3 Interpret and explain the results of numerical nucleosynthesis simulations.\r\n4 Show insight in the principles of galactic chemical evolution and cosmochronology and apply them in problems.\r\n5 Apply basic skills form different subdomains of physics and astronomy to solve nucleosynthesis-related problems." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Nuclear instrumentation"@en . . "6" . "The goal of this course is to obtain fundamental knowledge on the techniques and technology used to produce and detect radiation. The course consists of 2 separate parts: Partim Interaction of radiation with matter and radiation detectors • Radiation interactions: Interaction of heavy charged particles, Interaction of electrons and • positrons, Interaction of photons, Interaction of neutrons • Radiation detectors and their applications: General properties of radiation detectors, Gas- • filled detectors, Scintillaton detectors, Semi conductor detectors, Cherenkov detectors, • Neutron detection, Pulse processing Partim Particle Accelerators • Particle accelerators: Particle optics, Particle optics elements, Electrostatic and induction • accelerators, Linear high frequency accelerators, Circular high frequency accelerators, • Secundary beam production, Applications of accelerators.\nFINAL competences:\n1 Insight in radiation interaction processes.\r\n2 Insight in the operation of several types of radiation detectors and their application\r\n1 possibilities.\r\n3 Insight in methods to obtain physical information from detector output.\r\n4 Insight in methods to accelerate and transport charged particles.\r\n5 Insight in techniques to produce particles and radiation.\r\n6 Insight in design methods for modern particle accelerators and peripheral equipment." . . "Presential"@en . "FALSE" . . "Nuclear methods in material research"@en . . "6" . "• Phenomenological description of an atomic nucleus: radius, spin, parity, electric and\r\n• magnetic multipole moments, coupling of angular momenta, radioactive decay, multipole\r\n• radiation.\r\n• Hyperfine interactions and their relation with various energy scales in atoms.\r\n• Multipole expansion of the charge-charge and current-current interaction between a nucleus\r\n• and an electron distribution.\r\n• Magnetic hyperfine interaction, electric quadrupole interaction, monopole and quadrupole\r\n• shift.\r\n• Experimental methods based on hyperfine interactions: nuclear magnetic resonance, nuclear\r\n• quadrupole resonance, electron paramagnetic resonance, laser spectroscopy, low-\r\n• temperature nuclear orientation, NMR on oriented nuclei, Mössbauer spectroscopy,\r\n• perturbed angular correlation, resonant scattering of synchrotron radiation.\r\n• Academic, industrial and analytic applications of these methods.\r\n• Whenever possible and relevant, labs at UGent will be visited where nuclear methods are\r\n• used.\nFinal competences:\n1 Explaining the relations and differences between the major nuclear methods.\r\n2 Explaining the physical background behind the major nuclear methods.\r\n3 Being aware of which properties can and which cannot be measured by nuclear methods.\r\n4 Grasping the relevant information from research papers that report on experiments with nuclear methods.\r\n5 Being able to read and interpret simple experimental spectra obtained by nuclear methods.\r\n6 Being aware of the range of applications of nuclear methods." .