Unit 5 Description
In this unit, you will explore the revolutionary ideas that transformed our understanding of the universe in the 20th century. This unit focuses on concepts from quantum mechanics and special relativity, including the dual nature of matter, the quantization of energy, and the relationship between mass and energy. You will examine key experiments - such as the photoelectric effect and electron diffraction - that challenged classical physics and laid the ground work for quantum theory.
Through theoretical and conceptual analysis, you will learn how modern physics explains phenomena at atomic and subatomic levels. You also investigate the implication of Einstein's theory of special realtivity on time, space, and energy. This unit connects abstract scientific principles to cutting edge technologies and ongoing research in particle physics and cosmology.
Big Ideas:
- Classical physics cannot fully explain the behaviour of matter and energy at very small or very high speeds.
- Quantum theory and relativity revolutionized our understanding of energy, matter, space, and time.
- The principles of modern physics underpin many contemporary technologies and scientific advances.
Key Topics:
- Quantization of energy (Planck's hypothesis)
- The photoelectric effect and photon theory
- Wave-particle duality of matter (e.g., de Broglie wavelength)
- Atomic models and energy levels
- Special relativity (time dilation, length contraction, mass-energy equivalence)
- Applications in nuclear physics, particle accelerators, and cosmology
Skilled Developed:
- Interpreting and evaluating key experiments in modern physics
- Applying conceptual and mathematical models to explain quantum and relativistic phenomena
- Communicating complex scientific ideas clearly and logically
- Exploring the impact of modern physics on technology and society
Overall Expectations (Ontario Curriculum SPH4U):
F1. Analyse, and propose explanations for, phenomena in quantum mechanics and special relativity, and assess the impact of modern physics technologies on society and the environment.
F2. Investigate special relativistic and quantum phenomena through thought experiments, simulations, and other models, and solve related problems.
F3. Demonstrate an understanding of the evidence that supports the basic concepts of quantum mechanics and Einstein's theory of special relativity.