Outline

Overview

This unit of study is designed to build on the knowledge gained in Junior Physics, to provide Electrical Engineering students with the knowledge of relevant topics of Physics at the Intermediate level, and with associated skills. Completion of the unit provides a solid foundation for further studies in Electrical Engineering and related engineering areas. The aims of this unit are linked to the generic attributes required of graduates of the University in knowledge skills, thinking skills, personal skills and attributes, and practical skills. By the end of this unit of study, students will be able to describe and apply concepts in optics, electromagnetism and basic solid state physics and technology at the Intermediate level. They will be able to use computational techniques to analyze optics problems. The modules in this unit of study are: Optics (13 lectures): The wave nature of light, optical phenomena and the interaction of light with matter: interference and diffraction effects; fundamental limits to resolution of optical instruments; polarisation; dispersion; coherence. These are presented within the context of several key optical technologies including lasers, CD/DVD players, optical fibre communication systems, gratings and Mach Zehnder modulation. Electromagnetic Properties of Matter (12 lectures): Electric and magnetic effects in materials; the combination of electric and magnetic fields to produce light and other electromagnetic waves in vacuum and matter. Solid State and Device Physics (13 lectures): Introduction to quantum mechanics, Fermi-Dirac statistics, electronic properties of solids (metal, semiconductors and insulators), doping and the semiconductor PN junction; introduction to nanotechnology; fabrication technologies, nano-imaging technologies, nanoelectronics. Computational Physics (10 sessions of 2 hours each): In a computing laboratory students use Matlab-based simulation software to conduct virtual experiments in optics, which illustrate and extend the relevant lectures. Students also gain experience in the use of computers to solve problems in physics.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Physics Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	(PHYS1001 or PHYS1901) and (PHYS1003 or PHYS1902)
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	(((MATH1X21 or MATH1931 or MATH1X01 or MATH1906 or MATH1011) and (MATH1X02)) or (MATH1X61 or MATH1971)) and (((MATH1X23 or MATH1933 or MATH1X03 or MATH1907 or MATH1013) and (MATH1X04 or MATH1X05)) or (MATH1X62 or MATH1972))
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Antoine Runge, antoine.runge@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Moritz Merklein, moritz.merklein@sydney.edu.au
	David McKenzie, david.mckenzie@sydney.edu.au
	Chris Betters, christopher.betters@sydney.edu.au
	Marco Fronzi, marco.fronzi@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam ?	Final examination Supervised exam	60%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	SSD Quizzes Quiz	1.5%	Multiple weeks	10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	EMP quizzes Quiz	1.5%	Multiple weeks	10 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Computational Physics lab #EarlyFeedbackTask #EarlyFeedbackTask	2%	Week 02 Due date: 15 Aug 2025 at 23:59	See canvas	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Research analysis	Optics Written assessment	4%	Week 05 Due date: 06 Sep 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 16 Sep 2025	See Canvas	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Research analysis	Electromagnetic properties of matter Written assessment	2.5%	Week 09 Due date: 11 Oct 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 21 Oct 2025	See Canvas	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Computational physics test Practical test	19.4%	Week 12 Due date: 31 Oct 2025 at 09:00	See Canvas	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Data analysis	Solid state devices Written assessment	2.5%	Week 13 Due date: 08 Nov 2025 at 23:59 Closing date: 18 Nov 2025	See Canvas	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Computational physics lab Practical	6.6%	Weekly	See Canvas	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Final examination: The examination consists of three parts: electromagnetic properties of matter, optics, and solid state and device physics. Lists of physical constants and formulas needed are provided in the paper. Past papers are available for review via eLearning.

Final exam: If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). The alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	At HD level, a student demonstrates a flair for the subject and comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the unit material. A ‘High Distinction’ reflects exceptional achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates the ability to apply subject knowledge to novel situations.
Distinction	75 - 84	At DI level, a student demonstrates an aptitude for the subject and a solid knowledge and understanding of the unit material. A ‘Distinction’ reflects excellent achievement and is awarded to a student who demonstrates an ability to apply the key ideas of the subject.
Credit	65 - 74	At CR level, a student demonstrates a good command and knowledge of the unit material. A ‘Credit’ reflects solid achievement and is awarded to a student who has a broad understanding of the unit material but has not fully developed the ability to apply the key ideas of the subject.
Pass	50 - 64	At PS level, a student demonstrates proficiency in the unit material. A ‘Pass’ reflects satisfactory achievement and is awarded to a student who has threshold knowledge of the subject.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Optics	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 02	Optics	Lecture (3 hr)
	Optics	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 03	Optics	Lecture (3 hr)
	Optics	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 04	Optics	Lecture (3 hr)
	Optics	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 05	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Lecture (3 hr)
	Optics	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 06	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Lecture (3 hr)
	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 07	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Lecture (3 hr)
	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 08	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Lecture (3 hr)
	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 09	Solid state devices	Lecture (3 hr)
	Electromagnetic properties of matter	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 10	Solid state devices	Lecture (3 hr)
	Solid state devices	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 11	Solid state devices	Lecture (3 hr)
	Solid state devices	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 12	Solid state devices	Lecture (3 hr)
	Solid state devices	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Computational Physics	Computer laboratory (2 hr)
Week 13	Solid state devices	Tutorial (1 hr)

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. understand the key concepts in Electromagnetic Properties of Matter, Optics, and Solid State and Device Physics;
LO2. apply these concepts to develop models, and to solve qualitative and quantitative problems in scientific and engineering contexts, using appropriate mathematical and computing techniques as necessary
LO3. understand the nature of scientific measurement and skills in the measurement of physical quantities and the handling of data
LO4. find and analyse information and judge its reliability and significance
LO5. communicate scientific information appropriately, both orally and through written work
LO6. engage in team and group work for scientific investigations and for the process of learning
LO7. demonstrate a sense of responsibility, ethical behaviour and independence as a learner and as a scientist.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

No changes have been made since this unit was last offered

Additional information

OPTICS

The Laser
Superposition of Light
Lens Equation
Propagation of Light - Interference and Diffraction
Polarisation
Optical Fibres
Optical Fibre Bragg Gratings
Mach Zehnder Modulator – Interferometers and Electro-optic Effect

ELECTROMAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF MATTER

Electrostatics, Gauss's Law, Electric Potential
Capacitance and Dielectrics
Magnetism and Magnetic Materials: Ferromagnetism, Paramagnetism, Diamagnetism
Electromagnetic Waves

SOLID STATE AND DEVICE PHYSICS

Atoms & Electrons
Crystal Properties & Growth of Semiconductors
Metals, Insulators & Semiconductors
Carrier Transport
Metal Semiconductor Contacts
p/n Junctions
Optoelectronic Devices
Transistors and Integrated Circuits
Frontiers in Device Technology

COMPUTATIONAL PHYSICS

The module is an introduction to the use of computers for investigating problems of physical interest. MatLab programming. The material covered in the computational physics course is coordinated with that in the Optics lecture module will be used.

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory
Follow safety instructions in your manual, posted in laboratories, and from staff.
In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door
First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory
As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHYS2213: Physics 2EE

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links