Semester I

"Engineering Physics-1 Course Overview:

Unit I: Mathematical Tools applied to Physical Problems

This unit introduces essential mathematical concepts used in solving physical problems. It covers unit conversions, vector operations in different coordinate systems, function plotting, and the distinction between scalar and vector quantities. Students learn to apply these tools to real-world physical examples.

Unit II: Waves

This unit delves into the nature and behavior of waves. It covers both stationary and progressive waves, focusing on waves traveling through stretched strings. Students explore the differential equations governing waves, superposition principles, different types of wavefronts, and the fundamental concepts of acoustics and ultrasonic waves, including their production, detection, and applications.

Unit III: Optics

In this unit, students are introduced to the fundamental principles of optics. Topics covered include the nature of light, interference of light from coherent sources, interference in thin films, the working of Michelson's interferometer, diffraction phenomena, spectrum resolution, and polarization of light. Dielectric and optical materials are also discussed in this context.

Unit IV: Lasers

The unit begins with an introduction to lasers and their underlying principles. Students learn about stimulated absorption, stimulated emission, and spontaneous emission processes. Atomic and molecular spectra are explored, along with concepts of population inversion and pumping methods. Different types of lasers are introduced, including Nd-YAG and CO2 lasers, along with semiconductor lasers. Applications of lasers in various fields, such as welding, cutting, medical applications, and holography, are highlighted.

Unit V: Quantum Mechanics

This unit introduces students to the fascinating world of quantum mechanics. It covers the inadequacies of classical mechanics, Planck's law of black body radiation, Plank’s quantum theory, wave-particle duality, properties of photons, the photoelectric effect, Einstein's photoelectric equation, and applications of photoelectric cells. The Compton scattering phenomenon and its applications are also explored.

Unit VI: Theory of Relativity

The final unit introduces students to Einstein's theory of relativity. It covers both special and general relativity, frame of references, Lorentz transformations of space and time, Einstein's theory of relativity, and the equivalence of mass-energy relation. The Michelson-Morley experiment to determine the velocity of light is explained in the context of special relativity.

List of Practical:

The practical component of the course includes hands-on experiments to reinforce theoretical concepts. Students engage in measurements using tools such as Screw Gauge and Vernier Caliper, studying oscillatory systems, investigating stationary waves, employing a prism spectrometer, exploring light polarization with a polarimeter, and measuring wavelengths of light using various techniques. The determination of Planck's Constant using photocells is also a practical highlight.

Overall, Engineering Physics-1 provides a comprehensive foundation in mathematical methods, wave phenomena, optics, lasers, quantum mechanics, and relativistic physics, along with practical skills essential for the study and application of these principles."