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Fundamental aspect of astrophysics and cosmology and new developments in these fields. Basic physical concepts and principles, the key observational evidence, and illustrative calculations. Relativistic cosmological models, inflation, Big-Bang nucleosynthesis, and the cosmic microwave background; formation and evolution of galaxy clusters, galaxies, and stars; formation, structure, and evolution of white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes; rotation- and accretion-powered pulsars, X-ray and y-ray stars, and gravitational radiation. Same as ASTR 540. Prerequisite: PHYS 435; PHYS 485 or PHYS 486.

Introduction to the role of crystal symmetries and Berry phases in modern condensed matter physics. Topics include group theory and representation theory, space groups and their representations, electric polarization, Wannier functions, topological insulators, the quantum Hall effect, and the theory of band representations. Prerequisite: PHYS 560 or consent of instructor. Restricted to Graduate students.

First course of three physics curriculum design courses for in-service high school physics educators. Introduction to pedagogies and materials used in the introductory Physics courses at U of I, and their development. Adaptation and integration of these pedagogies and materials into the unique needs of the high school classroom. Reading and reflection on education research literature. Topics include: equitable grading; purposeful design and development of learning cycles to develop students’ deeper learning of physics concepts. Prerequisite: Must be an in-service high school teacher who typically carries 1 or more physics preps on their course schedule.

The first in a series of two physics curriculum design courses on quantum information science for in-service high school physics educators. Teachers will be introduced to quantum information science and technology concepts such as entanglement and quantum bits. They will co-develop lesson ideas that integrate quantum concepts into standard curricula, with one class per week dedicated to collaborative activities. Evaluation will be based on lesson-associated handouts, worksheets, self-reflections, and lesson plan documentation. Prerequisite: For students in the Masters of Science in Teaching of Physics program, or consent of the instructor.