Syllabus for Paper II of UPSC Physics Optional subject

The syllabus for Paper II of UPSC Physics Optional subject covers a wide range of topics in physics, including classical mechanics, mathematical methods of physics, quantum mechanics, and statistical mechanics. Here is a detailed breakdown of the syllabus:

1. Classical Mechanics:
- Newton's laws of motion
- Conservation laws
- Non-inertial frames and pseudoforces
- Central force motion, orbits under inverse square law
- Rigid body dynamics
- Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalism
- Small oscillations

2. Mathematical Methods of Physics:
- Complex analysis
- Linear vector spaces
- Matrices and determinants
- Differential equations
- Fourier series and transforms
- Partial differential equations
- Special functions

3. Quantum Mechanics:
- Wave-particle duality
- Schrödinger equation
- One-dimensional potential problems
- Angular momentum and spin
- Hydrogen atom
- Perturbation theory
- Identical particles and spin-statistics theorem

4. Electromagnetic Theory:
- Electrostatics and magnetostatics
- Maxwell's equations
- Electromagnetic waves
- Waveguides and resonant cavities
- Electromagnetic radiation and scattering

5. Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics:
- Laws of thermodynamics
- Thermodynamic potentials and Maxwell relations
- Phase transitions and critical phenomena
- Boltzmann's statistics and partition functions
- Ideal and real gases
- Blackbody radiation

6. Electronics and Experimental Methods:
- Semiconductors and junction devices
- Operational amplifiers and their applications
- Digital electronics and logic gates
- Measurement techniques and error analysis
- Data acquisition systems

7. Atomic and Molecular Physics:
- Atomic structure and spectra
- Molecular structure and spectra
- Laser physics and applications
- Interaction of radiation with matter

8. Nuclear and Particle Physics:
- Nuclear properties and models
- Radioactivity and decay processes
- Particle accelerators and detectors
- Elementary particles and their interactions

9. Condensed Matter Physics:
- Crystal structure and diffraction
- Lattice vibrations and thermal properties
- Superconductivity and magnetism
- Dielectric and magnetic materials

Overall, the syllabus for Paper II of UPSC Physics Optional subject covers a broad spectrum of topics in physics, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject. It is important for candidates to study each topic in depth and have a strong conceptual understanding to perform well in the exam.