DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS Both options lead to the same degree: the Bachelor of Science in
Physics.

The Department of Physics oers undergraduate, graduate,

Physics: Focused Option
and postgraduate training, with a wide range of options for
This option—which includes three terms of quantum mechanics, 36
specialization.
units of laboratory experience, and a thesis—is ideal preparation for
The emphasis of both the undergraduate curriculum and the a career in physics.
graduate program is on understanding the fundamental principles
In the second year, students take:
that appear to govern the behavior of the physical world, including
space and time and matter and energy in all its forms, from the 8.03 Physics III 12
subatomic to the cosmological and from the elementary to the 8.033 Relativity 12
complex.
8.04 Quantum Physics I 12
The Department of Physics strives to be at the forefront of many 8.044 Statistical Physics I 12
areas where new physics can be found. Consequently, the 8.223 Classical Mechanics II 6
department works on problems where extreme conditions may reveal
new behavior: from clusters of galaxies or the entire universe to Important skills for experimentation in physics may be acquired
elementary particles or the strings that may be the substructure of by starting an Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program
these particles; from collisions of nuclei at relativistic velocities that (UROP) (https://catalog.mit.edu/mit/undergraduate-education/
make droplets of matter hotter than anything since the Big Bang academic-research-options/undergraduate-research-opportunities-
to laser-cooled atoms so cold that their wave functions overlap, program) project.
resulting in a macroscopic collective state, the Bose-Einstein
In the third year, students normally take laboratory subjects:
condensate; and from individual atoms to unusual materials, such as
high-temperature superconductors and those that are important in
8.13 Experimental Physics I 36
biology. Pushing the limits provides the opportunity to observe new
& 8.14 and Experimental Physics II
general principles and test theories of the structure and behavior of
8.05 Quantum Physics II 24
matter and energy.
& 8.06 and Quantum Physics III

Students should also begin to take the restricted elective subjects,

Undergraduate Study one in mathematics and at least two in physics. The mathematics
subjects 18.04 Complex Variables with Applications, 18.075
Bachelor of Science in Physics (Course 8) Methods for Scientists and Engineers, and 18.06 Linear Algebra are
An undergraduate degree in physics provides an excellent basis particularly popular with physics majors. Topical elective subjects
not only for graduate study in physics and related elds, but also in astrophysics, biological physics, condensed matter, plasma, and
for professional work in such elds as astrophysics, biophysics, nuclear and particle physics allow students to gain an appreciation
engineering and applied physics, geophysics, management, of the forefronts of modern physics. Students intending to go on to
law, or medicine. The undergraduate curriculum oers students graduate school in physics are encouraged to take the theoretical
the opportunity to acquire a deep conceptual understanding of physics sequence:
fundamental physics. The core departmental requirements begin
this process. The student then chooses one of two options to 8.07 Electromagnetism II 12
complete the degree: the focused option (https://catalog.mit.edu/ 8.08 Statistical Physics II 12
degree-charts/physics-course-8/#focusedoptiontext) is designed
8.09 Classical Mechanics III 12
for students who plan to pursue physics as a career, and is an
excellent choice for students who want to experience as deep an An important component of this option is the thesis, which is a
engagement as possible with physics; the flexible option (https:// physics research project carried out under the guidance of a faculty
catalog.mit.edu/degree-charts/physics-course-8/#flexibleoptiontext) member. Many thesis projects grow naturally out of UROP projects.
also provides a very strong physics framework, and gives students Students should have some idea of a thesis topic by the middle
who may want to pursue additional academic interests the flexibility of the junior year. A thesis proposal must be submitted before
to do so. Both programs prepare students very well for graduate registering for thesis units and no later than Add Date of the fall term
studies in physics, as well as for a variety of academic or research- of the senior year.
related careers. Either option provides a considerable amount of time
for exploration through electives. Students proceed at the pace and
degree of specialization best suited to their individual capacities.

Department of Physics | 3
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

A relatively large amount of elective time usually becomes available Students following this option must also complete a focus
during the fourth year and can be used either to deepen one's requirement—three subjects forming one intellectually coherent unit
background in physics or to explore other disciplines. in some area (not necessarily physics), subject to the approval of the
department and separate from those used by the student to satisfy
Physics: Flexible Option the HASS requirement. Areas of focus chosen by students have
This option is designed for students who wish to develop a strong included astronomy, biology, computational physics, theoretical
background in the fundamentals of physics and then build on physics, nanotechnology, history of science, science and technology
this foundation as they prepare for career paths that may or may policy, philosophy, and science teaching. Some students may
not involve a graduate degree in physics. Many students nd an choose to satisfy their experimental and exploration requirements in
understanding of the basic concepts of physics and an appreciation the same area as their focus; others may opt for greater breadth by
of the physicist's approach to problem solving an excellent choosing other elds to fulll these requirements.
preparation for the growing spectrum of nontraditional, technology-
related career opportunities, as well as for careers in business, law, Although students may choose this option at any time in their
medicine, or engineering. Additionally, the flexible option makes undergraduate career, many decide on the flexible major during their
it more possible for students with diverse intellectual interests to sophomore year in order to have enough time to cra a program that
pursue a second major in another department. best suits their individual needs. Specic subject choices for the
experimental and focus requirements require the written approval of
The option begins with the core subjects: the Flexible Program coordinator, Dr. Sean P. Robinson.

8.01 Physics I 12 Minor in Physics

8.02 Physics II 12 The Minor in Physics provides a solid foundation for the pursuit of
8.03 Physics III 12 a broad range of professional activities in science and engineering.
8.04 Quantum Physics I 12 The requirements for a Minor in Physics are as follows:

8.044 Statistical Physics I 12 18.03 Dierential Equations

1
12
8.21 Physics of Energy 12 Select ve Course 8 subjects beyond the General 57-60
or 8.223 Classical Mechanics II Institute Requirements

Students round out their foundation material with either an Total Units 69-72
additional quantum mechanics subject (8.05 Quantum Physics 1
18.032 Dierential Equations is also acceptable.
II) or a subject in relativity (8.20 Introduction to Special Relativity
or 8.033 Relativity). There is an experimental requirement of 8.13 Students should submit a completed Minor Application Form to
Experimental Physics I or, with the approval of the department, a Physics Academic Programs, Room 4-315. The Physics Department's
laboratory subject of similar intensity in another department, an minor coordinator is Shannon Larkin. See Undergraduate Education
experimental research project or senior thesis, or an experimentally for more information on minor programs (https://catalog.mit.edu/
oriented summer externship. An exploration requirement consists mit/undergraduate-education/academic-programs/minors).
of one elective subject in physics. Students can satisfy the
departmental portion of the Communication Requirement by taking Minor in Astronomy
two of the following subjects: The Minor in Astronomy (https://catalog.mit.edu/interdisciplinary/
undergraduate-programs/minors/astronomy), oered jointly with
8.06 Quantum Physics III 12
the Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences,
8.13 Experimental Physics I 18 covers the observational and theoretical foundations of astronomy.
8.14 Experimental Physics II 18 For a description of the minor, see Interdisciplinary Programs.
8.225[J] Einstein, Oppenheimer, Feynman: 12
Physics in the 20th Century Inquiries
8.226 Forty-three Orders of Magnitude 12 Additional information concerning degree programs and research
activities may be obtained by contacting the department oce
8.287[J] Observational Techniques of Optical 15
([email protected]), Room 4-315, 617-253-4841.
Astronomy

The department and the Subcommittee on the Communication

Requirement may accept substitution of one of the department's two Graduate Study
required CI-M subjects with a CI-M subject in another department if it
The Physics Department oers programs leading to the degrees of
forms a natural part of the student's physics program.
Master of Science in Physics and Doctor of Philosophy.

4 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

• Atomic Physics, Biophysics, Condensed Matter Physics, and

Admission Requirements for Graduate Study Plasma Physics
Students intending to pursue graduate work in physics should have • Theoretical Nuclear and Particle Physics
as a background the equivalent of the requirements for the Bachelor
of Science in Physics from MIT. However, students may make up Much of the research in the department is carried out as part of
some deciencies over the course of their graduate work. the work of various interdisciplinary laboratories and centers,
including the Center for Materials Science and Engineering, Francis
Master of Science in Physics Bitter Magnet Laboratory, Haystack Observatory, Laboratory for
The normal degree program in the department leads to a PhD Nuclear Science, Microsystems Technology Laboratories, MIT Kavli
in Physics. Admission to a master's degree program in Physics Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research, Plasma Science and
is available only in special cases (e.g., US military ocers). The Fusion Center, Research Laboratory of Electronics, and Spectroscopy
requirements for the Master of Science in Physics are the same as Laboratory. Additional information about interdisciplinary
the General Degree Requirements (https://catalog.mit.edu/mit/ laboratories and centers can be found under Research and Study
graduate-education/general-degree-requirements) listed under (https://catalog.mit.edu/mit/research). These facilities provide
Graduate Education. A master's thesis must represent a piece of close relationships among the research activities of a number of
independent research work in any of the elds described below, MIT departments and give students opportunities for contact with
and must be carried out under the supervision of a department research carried out in disciplines other than physics.
faculty member. No xed time is set for the completion of a master's
program; two years of work is a rough guideline. There is no Inquiries
language requirement for this degree. Additional information on degree programs, research activities,
admissions, nancial aid, teaching and research assistantships
Doctor of Philosophy may be obtained by contacting the department oce (physics-
Candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy or Doctor of Science are [email protected]), Room 4-315, 617-253-4851.
expected to enroll in those basic graduate subjects that prepare
them for the general examination, which must be passed no
later than in the seventh term aer initial enrollment. Students Faculty and Teaching Sta
are required to take two subjects in the candidate's doctoral
Deepto Chakrabarty, PhD
research area (specialty requirement) and two subjects outside
Professor of Physics
the candidate's eld of specialization (breadth requirement). In
Head, Department of Physics
addition, all students in the rst year of the PhD program must
enroll in two semesters of 8.398, a seminar specically for rst-year Lindley Winslow, PhD
students. Half of the breadth requirement may be satised through Professor of Physics
a departmentally approved industrial internship. The doctoral thesis Associate Head, Department of Physics
must represent a substantial piece of original research, carried out
under the supervision of a department faculty member. Professors
Raymond Ashoori, PhD
The Physics Department faculty members oer subjects of
Professor of Physics
instruction and are engaged in research in a variety of elds in
experimental and theoretical physics. This broad spectrum of Edmund Bertschinger, PhD
activities is organized in the divisional structure of the department, Professor of Physics
presented below. Graduate students are encouraged to contact
faculty members in the division of their choice to inquire about Claude R. Canizares, PhD
opportunities for research, and to pass through an apprenticeship Bruno B. Rossi Distinguished Professor Post-Tenure in Experimental
(by signing up for Pre-Thesis Research) as a rst step toward an Physics
engagement in independent research for a doctoral thesis.
Paola Cappellaro, PhD
Ford Professor of Engineering
Research Divisions Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering
Faculty and students in the Department of Physics are generally
Professor of Physics
aliated with one of several research divisions:
(On leave, spring)
• Astrophysics
• Experimental Nuclear and Particle Physics

Department of Physics | 5
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Arup K. Chakraborty, PhD Robert L. Jae, PhD

John M. Deutch Institute Professor Otto (1939) and Jane Morningstar Professor Post-Tenure of Science
Robert T. Haslam (1911) Professor in Chemical Engineering Professor Post-Tenure of Physics
Professor of Chemistry
Professor of Physics Pablo Jarillo-Herrero, PhD
Core Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science Cecil and Ida Green Professor of Physics

Isaac Chuang, PhD John D. Joannopoulos, PhD

Professor of Electrical Engineering Francis Wright Davis Professor
Professor of Physics Professor of Physics

Janet Conrad, PhD Steven G. Johnson, PhD

Professor of Physics Professor of Mathematics
Professor of Physics
William Detmold, PhD
Professor of Physics David I. Kaiser, PhD
(On leave, fall) Germeshausen Professor of the History of Science
Professor of Physics
Matthew J. Evans, PhD (On leave, spring)
Mathworks Physics Professor
Professor of Physics Mehran Kardar, PhD
Francis L. Friedman Professor of Physics
Peter H. Fisher, PhD
Thomas A. Frank (1977) Professor of Physics Wolfgang Ketterle, PhD
Associate Vice President for Research Computing and Data John D. MacArthur Professor
Professor of Physics
Joseph A. Formaggio, PhD (On leave, fall)
Professor of Physics
(On leave) Patrick A. Lee, PhD
William and Emma Rogers Professor
Anna L. Frebel, PhD Professor Post-Tenure of Physics
Professor of Physics
Yen-Jie Lee, PhD
Liang Fu, PhD Class of 1958 Career Development Professor
Professor of Physics Professor of Physics

Nuh Gedik, PhD Leonid Levitov, PhD

Donner Professor of Physics Professor of Physics

Je Gore, PhD Hong Liu, PhD

Professor of Physics Professor of Physics

Alan Guth, PhD Nuno F. Loureiro, PhD

Victor F. Weisskopf Professor in Physics Herman Feshbach (1942) Professor of Physics
Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering
Aram W. Harrow, PhD
Professor of Physics Nergis Mavalvala, PhD
Curtis (1963) and Kathleen Marble Professor
Jacqueline N. Hewitt, PhD Professor of Physics
Julius A. Stratton Professor Dean, School of Science
Professor of Physics
(On leave) Richard G. Milner, PhD
Professor of Physics
Scott A. Hughes, PhD
Professor of Physics

6 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Leonid A. Mirny, PhD Jesse Thaler, PhD

Richard J. Cohen (1976) Professor in Medicine and Biomedical Professor of Physics
Physics Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society
Professor of Physics
Core Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science Samuel C. C. Ting, PhD
Thomas D. Cabot Institute Professor
Ernest J. Moniz, PhD Professor of Physics
Cecil and Ida Green Distinguished Professor
Professor Post-Tenure of Physics Senthil Todadri, PhD
Professor Post-Tenure of Engineering Systems Professor of Physics

William D. Oliver, PhD Mark Vogelsberger, PhD

Henry Ellis Warren (1894) Professor Professor of Physics
Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Vladan Vuletić, PhD
Professor of Physics Lester Wolfe Professor
Christoph M. E. Paus, PhD Professor of Physics
Professor of Physics Xiao-Gang Wen, PhD
Miklos Porkolab, PhD Cecil and Ida Green Professor in Physics
Professor Post-Tenure of Physics Frank Wilczek, PhD
David E. Pritchard, PhD Herman Feshbach (1942) Professor Post-Tenure of Physics
Cecil and Ida Green Professor Post-Tenure of Physics Michael Williams, PhD
Krishna Rajagopal, PhD Professor of Physics
William A. M. Burden Professor of Physics Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Gunther M. Roland, PhD Boleslaw Wyslouch, PhD

Professor of Physics Professor of Physics

Sara Seager, PhD Barton Zwiebach, PhD

Class of 1941 Professor of Planetary Sciences Professor of Physics
Professor of Physics Martin Wolfram Zwierlein, PhD
Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics Thomas A. Frank (1977) Professor of Physics
Robert A. Simcoe, PhD
Francis L. Friedman Professor of Physics Associate Professors
Joseph George Checkelsky, PhD
Tracy Robyn Slatyer, PhD Associate Professor of Physics
Professor of Physics
(On leave) Riccardo Comin, PhD
Associate Professor of Physics
Marin Soljačić, PhD (On leave, fall)
Cecil and Ida Green Professor of Physics
Netta Engelhardt, PhD
Iain Stewart, PhD Associate Professor of Physics
Otto (1939) and Jane Morningstar Professor of Science
Professor of Physics Nikta Fakhri, PhD
(On leave) Thomas D. and Virginia W. Cabot Associate Professor of Physics
(On leave, fall)
Washington Taylor IV, PhD
Professor of Physics Daniel Harlow, PhD
Associate Professor of Physics
Max Erik Tegmark, PhD
Professor of Physics Philip Harris, PhD
Associate Professor of Physics
(On leave, fall)

Department of Physics | 7
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Or Hen, PhD Andrew Vanderburg, PhD

Associate Professor of Physics Assistant Professor of Physics

Erin Kara, PhD Visiting Associate Professors

Associate Professor of Physics Ibrahim I. Cissé, PhD
Kiyoshi Masui, PhD Visiting Associate Professor of Physics
Associate Professor of Physics
Senior Lecturers
Michael McDonald, PhD Peter Dourmashkin, PhD
Associate Professor of Physics Senior Lecturer in Physics

Max Metlitski, PhD Erik Katsavounidis, PhD

Associate Professor of Physics Senior Lecturer in Physics

Phiala E. Shanahan, PhD Lecturers

Class of 1957 Career Development Professor Mohamed Abdelhafez, PhD
Associate Professor of Physics Lecturer in Physics
(On leave, spring)
Byron Drury, PhD
Julien Tailleur, PhD Lecturer in Physics
Associate Professor of Physics
Sean P. Robinson, PhD
Salvatore Vitale, PhD Lecturer in Physics
Associate Professor of Physics Senior Technical Instructor of Physics
(On leave, fall)
Alex Shvonski, PhD
Assistant Professors Lecturer in Physics
Soonwon Choi, PhD
Assistant Professor of Physics Michelle Tomasik, PhD
Lecturer in Physics
Anna-Christina Eilers, PhD
Assistant Professor of Physics Technical Instructors
(On leave) Rosi Anderson, BS
Technical Instructor of Physics
Richard J. Fletcher, PhD
Assistant Professor of Physics Caleb C. Bonyun, MS
Senior Technical Instructor of Physics
Ronald Garcia Ruiz, PhD
Assistant Professor of Physics Aidan MacDonagh, BSE
Senior Technical Instructor of Digital Learning
Long Ju, PhD
Assistant Professor of Physics Christopher Miller, BS
Technical Instructor of Physics
Sarah Millholland, PhD
Assistant Professor of Physics Aaron Pilarcik, MS
(On leave, fall) Technical Instructor of Physics

Lina Necib, PhD Joshua Wolfe, BS

Assistant Professor of Physics Senior Technical Instructor of Physics

Shu-Heng Shao, PhD

Assistant Professor of Physics Research Sta

Eluned Smith, PhD Senior Research Scientists

Assistant Professor of Physics Earl S. Marmar, PhD
Senior Research Scientist of Physics

8 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Jagadeesh Moodera, PhD Erich P. Ippen, PhD

Senior Research Scientist of Physics Elihu Thomson Professor Emeritus
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Richard J. Temkin, PhD Professor Emeritus of Electrical Engineering
Senior Research Scientist of Physics
Paul Christopher Joss, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Professors Emeriti
John Winston Belcher, PhD Marc A. Kastner, PhD
Class of 1922 Professor Emeritus Donner Professor of Science Emeritus
Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emeritus of Physics

George B. Benedek, PhD Vera Kistiakowsky, PhD

Alfred H. Caspary Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emerita of Physics
Professor Emeritus of Biological Physics
Daniel Kleppner, PhD
Ahmet Nihat Berker, PhD Lester Wolfe Professor Emeritus
Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emeritus of Physics

William Bertozzi, PhD Stanley B. Kowalski, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emeritus of Physics

Robert J. Birgeneau, PhD J. David Litster, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emeritus of Physics

Hale V. Bradt, PhD Earle L. Lomon, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emeritus of Physics

Wit Busza, PhD June Lorraine Matthews, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emerita of Physics

Min Chen, PhD John W. Negele, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Physics William A. Coolidge Professor Emeritus
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Bruno Coppi, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Physics Irwin A. Pless, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Edward Farhi, PhD
Cecil and Ida Green Professor Emeritus of Physics Saul A. Rappaport, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Daniel Z. Freedman, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Mathematics Robert P. Redwine, PhD
Professor Emeritus of Physics Professor Emeritus of Physics

Jerome I. Friedman, PhD Lawrence Rosenson, PhD

Institute Professor Emeritus Professor Emeritus of Physics
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Paul L. Schechter, PhD
Jerey Goldstone, PhD William A. M. Burden Professor Emeritus in Astrophysics
Professor Emeritus of Physics
Rainer Weiss, PhD
Thomas J. Greytak, PhD Professor Emeritus of Physics
Lester Wolfe Professor Emeritus of Physics
James E. Young, PhD
Lee Grodzins, PhD Professor Emeritus of Physics
Professor Emeritus of Physics

Department of Physics | 9
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Undergraduate Subjects 8.012 Physics I

Prereq: None
8.006 Exploring Physics Using Python (New) U (Fall)
Prereq: None. Coreq: 6.100L; or permission of instructor 5-0-7 units. PHYSICS I
U (Fall) Credit cannot also be received for 8.01, 8.011, 8.01L, ES.801, ES.8012
2-0-1 units Elementary mechanics, presented in greater depth than in 8.01.
Reviews and reinforces 6.100L topics, making connections and Newton's laws, concepts of momentum, energy, angular momentum,
studying interesting physical systems (from abstract knowledge rigid body motion, and non-inertial systems. Uses elementary
of concepts to modeling, coding, and evaluating results) that are calculus freely; concurrent registration in a math subject more
relevant to physicists. Classes are active and interactive. Students advanced than 18.01 is recommended. In addition to covering the
apply programming skills to introductory physics problems and theoretical subject matter, students complete a small experimental
explore the role of simulations on physics. Limited to 12. project of their own design. First-year students admitted via AP or
M. Heine Math Diagnostic for Physics Placement results.
M. Soljacic
8.01 Physics I
Prereq: None 8.01L Physics I
U (Fall) Prereq: None
3-2-7 units. PHYSICS I U (Fall, IAP)
Credit cannot also be received for 8.011, 8.012, 8.01L, ES.801, 3-2-7 units. PHYSICS I
ES.8012 Credit cannot also be received for 8.01, 8.011, 8.012, ES.801, ES.8012

Introduces classical mechanics. Space and time: straight-line Introduction to classical mechanics (see description under 8.01).
kinematics; motion in a plane; forces and static equilibrium; particle Includes components of the TEAL (Technology-Enabled Active
dynamics, with force and conservation of momentum; relative Learning) format. Material covered over a longer interval so that the
inertial frames and non-inertial force; work, potential energy and subject is completed by the end of the IAP. Substantial emphasis
conservation of energy; kinetic theory and the ideal gas; rigid bodies given to reviewing and strengthening necessary mathematics
and rotational dynamics; vibrational motion; conservation of angular tools, as well as basic physics concepts and problem-solving skills.
momentum; central force motions; fluid mechanics. Subject taught Content, depth, and diculty is otherwise identical to that of 8.01.
using the TEAL (Technology-Enabled Active Learning) format which The subject is designated as 8.01 on the transcript.
features students working in groups of three, discussing concepts, P. Jarillo-Herrero
solving problems, and doing table-top experiments with the aid of
computer data acquisition and analysis. 8.02 Physics II
J. Formaggio, P. Dourmashkin Prereq: Calculus I (GIR) and Physics I (GIR)
U (Fall, Spring)
8.011 Physics I 3-2-7 units. PHYSICS II
Prereq: Permission of instructor Credit cannot also be received for 8.021, 8.022, ES.802, ES.8022
U (Spring) Introduction to electromagnetism and electrostatics: electric
5-0-7 units. PHYSICS I charge, Coulomb's law, electric structure of matter; conductors
Credit cannot also be received for 8.01, 8.012, 8.01L, ES.801, and dielectrics. Concepts of electrostatic eld and potential,
ES.8012 electrostatic energy. Electric currents, magnetic elds and Ampere's
Introduces classical mechanics. Space and time: straight-line law. Magnetic materials. Time-varying elds and Faraday's law
kinematics; motion in a plane; forces and equilibrium; experimental of induction. Basic electric circuits. Electromagnetic waves and
basis of Newton's laws; particle dynamics; universal gravitation; Maxwell's equations. Subject taught using the TEAL (Technology
collisions and conservation laws; work and potential energy; Enabled Active Learning) studio format which utilizes small group
vibrational motion; conservative forces; inertial forces and non- interaction and current technology to help students develop intuition
inertial frames; central force motions; rigid bodies and rotational about, and conceptual models of, physical phenomena.
dynamics. Designed for students with previous experience in 8.01; J. Belcher, I. Cisse
the subject is designated as 8.01 on the transcript.
B. Drury

10 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.021 Physics II 8.033 Relativity

Prereq: Calculus I (GIR), Physics I (GIR), and permission of instructor Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and Physics II (GIR)
U (Fall) U (Fall)
5-0-7 units. PHYSICS II 5-0-7 units. REST
Credit cannot also be received for 8.02, 8.022, ES.802, ES.8022
Einstein's postulates; consequences for simultaneity, time
Introduction to electromagnetism and electrostatics: electric dilation, length contraction, and clock synchronization; Lorentz
charge, Coulomb's law, electric structure of matter; conductors transformation; relativistic eects and paradoxes; Minkowski
and dielectrics. Concepts of electrostatic eld and potential, diagrams; invariants and four-vectors; momentum, energy, and
electrostatic energy. Electric currents, magnetic elds and Ampere's mass; particle collisions. Relativity and electricity; Coulomb's
law. Magnetic materials. Time-varying elds and Faraday's law; magnetic elds. Brief introduction to Newtonian cosmology.
law of induction. Basic electric circuits. Electromagnetic waves Introduction to some concepts of general relativity; principle of
and Maxwell's equations. Designed for students with previous equivalence. The Schwarzchild metric; gravitational red shi;
experience in 8.02; the subject is designated as 8.02 on the particle and light trajectories; geodesics; Shapiro delay.
transcript. Enrollment limited. S. Vitale
J. Checkelsky
8.04 Quantum Physics I
8.022 Physics II Prereq: 8.03 and (18.03 or 18.032)
Prereq: Physics I (GIR); Coreq: Calculus II (GIR) U (Spring)
U (Fall, Spring) 5-0-7 units. REST
5-0-7 units. PHYSICS II Credit cannot also be received for 8.041
Credit cannot also be received for 8.02, 8.021, ES.802, ES.8022
Experimental basis of quantum physics: photoelectric eect,
Parallel to 8.02, but more advanced mathematically. Some Compton scattering, photons, Franck-Hertz experiment, the Bohr
knowledge of vector calculus assumed. Maxwell's equations, in atom, electron diraction, deBroglie waves, and wave-particle
both dierential and integral form. Electrostatic and magnetic duality of matter and light. Introduction to wave mechanics:
vector potential. Properties of dielectrics and magnetic materials. Schroedinger's equation, wave functions, wave packets, probability
In addition to the theoretical subject matter, several experiments amplitudes, stationary states, the Heisenberg uncertainty principle,
in electricity and magnetism are performed by the students in the and zero-point energies. Solutions to Schroedinger's equation in
laboratory. one dimension: transmission and reflection at a barrier, barrier
D. Harlow penetration, potential wells, the simple harmonic oscillator.
Schroedinger's equation in three dimensions: central potentials and
8.03 Physics III introduction to hydrogenic systems.
Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and Physics II (GIR) V. Vuletic
U (Fall, Spring)
5-0-7 units. REST

Mechanical vibrations and waves; simple harmonic motion,

superposition, forced vibrations and resonance, coupled
oscillations, and normal modes; vibrations of continuous systems;
reflection and refraction; phase and group velocity. Optics; wave
solutions to Maxwell's equations; polarization; Snell's Law,
interference, Huygens's principle, Fraunhofer diraction, and
gratings.
Y-J. Lee, R. Comin

Department of Physics | 11
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.041 Quantum Physics I 8.051 Quantum Physics II

Prereq: 8.03 and (18.03 or 18.032) Prereq: 8.04 and permission of instructor
U (Fall) U (Spring)
2-0-10 units. REST 2-0-10 units
Credit cannot also be received for 8.04 Credit cannot also be received for 8.05

Blended version of 8.04 using a combination of online and in- Blended version of 8.05 using a combination of online and
person instruction. Covers the experimental basis of quantum in-person instruction. Together with 8.06 covers quantum
physics: Mach-Zender interferometers, the photoelectric eect, physics with applications drawn from modern physics. General
Compton scattering, and de Broglie waves. Heisenberg uncertainty formalism of quantum mechanics: states, operators, Dirac
principle and momentum space. Introduction to wave mechanics: notation, representations, measurement theory. Harmonic
Schroedinger's equation, probability amplitudes, and wave packets. oscillator: operator algebra, states. Quantum mechanics in three
Stationary states and the spectrum of one-dimensional potentials, dimensions: central potentials and the radial equation, bound and
including the variational principle, the Hellmann-Feynman lemma, scattering states, qualitative analysis of wave functions. Angular
the virial theorem, and the harmonic oscillator. Basics of angular momentum: operators, commutator algebra, eigenvalues and
momentum, central potentials, and the hydrogen atom. Introduction eigenstates, spherical harmonics. Spin: Stern-Gerlach devices and
to the Stern-Gerlach experiment, spin one-half, spin operators, and measurements, nuclear magnetic resonance, spin and statistics.
spin states. Addition of angular momentum: Clebsch-Gordan series and
V. Vuletic coecients, spin systems, and allotropic forms of hydrogen. Limited
to 20.
8.044 Statistical Physics I Fall: Sta
Prereq: 8.03 and 18.03 Spring: W. Detmold
U (Spring)
5-0-7 units 8.06 Quantum Physics III
Prereq: 8.05
Introduction to probability, statistical mechanics, and U (Spring)
thermodynamics. Random variables, joint and conditional 5-0-7 units
probability densities, and functions of a random variable. Concepts
of macroscopic variables and thermodynamic equilibrium, Continuation of 8.05. Units: natural units, scales of microscopic
fundamental assumption of statistical mechanics, microcanonical phenomena, applications. Time-independent approximation
and canonical ensembles. First, second, and third laws of methods: degenerate and nondegenerate perturbation theory,
thermodynamics. Numerous examples illustrating a wide variety of variational method, Born-Oppenheimer approximation, applications
physical phenomena such as magnetism, polyatomic gases, thermal to atomic and molecular systems. The structure of one- and two-
radiation, electrons in solids, and noise in electronic devices. electron atoms: overview, spin-orbit and relativistic corrections,
Concurrent enrollment in 8.04 is recommended. ne structure, variational approximation, screening, Zeeman and
N. Fakhri Stark eects. Charged particles in a magnetic eld: Landau levels
and integer quantum hall eect. Scattering: general principles,
8.05 Quantum Physics II partial waves, review of one-dimension, low-energy approximations,
Prereq: 8.04 or 8.041 resonance, Born approximation. Time-dependent perturbation
U (Fall) theory. Students research and write a paper on a topic related to the
5-0-7 units content of 8.05 and 8.06.
Credit cannot also be received for 8.051 B. Zwiebach

Vector spaces, linear operators, and matrix representations. Inner

products and adjoint operators. Commutator identities. Dirac's
Bra-kets. Uncertainty principle and energy-time version. Spectral
theorem and complete set of commuting observables. Schrodinger
and Heisenberg pictures. Axioms of quantum mechanics. Coherent
states and nuclear magnetic resonance. Multiparticle states and
tensor products. Quantum teleportation, EPR and Bell inequalities.
Angular momentum and central potentials. Addition of angular
momentum. Density matrices, pure and mixed states, decoherence.
B. Zwiebach

12 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.07 Electromagnetism II Undergraduate Laboratory and Special Project Subjects

Prereq: 8.03 and 18.03
U (Fall) 8.10 Exploring and Communicating Physics (and other) Frontiers
4-0-8 units Prereq: None
Survey of basic electromagnetic phenomena: electrostatics, U (Fall)
magnetostatics; electromagnetic properties of matter. Time- Not oered regularly; consult department
dependent electromagnetic elds and Maxwell's equations. 2-0-0 units
Electromagnetic waves, emission, absorption, and scattering of Features a series of 12 interactive sessions that span a wide variety
radiation. Relativistic electrodynamics and mechanics. of topics at the frontiers of science - e.g., quantum computing,
A. Guth dark matter, the nature of time - and encourage independent
thinking. Discussions draw from the professor's published pieces in
8.08 Statistical Physics II periodicals as well as short excerpts from his books. Also discusses,
Prereq: 8.044 and 8.05 through case studies, the process of writing and re-writing. Subject
U (IAP) can count toward the 6-unit discovery-focused credit limit for rst
4-0-8 units year students.
Probability distributions for classical and quantum systems. F. Wilczek
Microcanonical, canonical, and grand canonical partition-
functions and associated thermodynamic potentials. Conditions 8.13 Experimental Physics I
of thermodynamic equilibrium for homogenous and heterogenous Prereq: 8.04
systems. Applications: non-interacting Bose and Fermi gases; U (Fall, Spring)
mean eld theories for real gases, binary mixtures, magnetic 0-6-12 units. Institute LAB
systems, polymer solutions; phase and reaction equilibria, critical First in a two-term advanced laboratory sequence in modern
phenomena. Fluctuations, correlation functions and susceptibilities, physics focusing on the professional and personal development
and Kubo formulae. Evolution of distribution functions: Boltzmann of the student as a scientist through the medium of experimental
and Smoluchowski equations. physics. Experimental options cover special relativity, experimental
Sta, L. Fu foundations of quantum mechanics, atomic structure and optics,
statistical mechanics, and nuclear and particle physics. Uses modern
8.09 Classical Mechanics III physics experiments to develop laboratory technique, systematic
Subject meets with 8.309 troubleshooting, professional scientic attitude, data analysis skills
Prereq: 8.223 and reasoning about uncertainty. Provides extensive training in oral
U (Spring) and written communication methods. Limited to 12 students per
4-0-8 units section.
Covers Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, systems with J. Conrad, N. Fakhri, C. Paus, G. Roland
constraints, rigid body dynamics, vibrations, central forces,
Hamilton-Jacobi theory, action-angle variables, perturbation
theory, and continuous systems. Provides an introduction to ideal
and viscous fluid mechanics, including turbulence, as well as an
introduction to nonlinear dynamics, including chaos. Students taking
graduate version complete dierent assignments.
I. Stewart

Department of Physics | 13
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.14 Experimental Physics II 8.19 Readings in Physics

Prereq: 8.05 and 8.13 Prereq: None
U (Spring) U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
0-6-12 units Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.
Second in a two-term advanced laboratory sequence in modern
physics focusing on the professional and personal development Supervised reading and library work. Choice of material and
of the student as a scientist through the medium of experimental allotment of time according to individual needs. For students who
physics. Experimental options cover special relativity, experimental want to do work not provided for in the regular subjects. Specic
foundations of quantum mechanics, atomic structure and optics, approval required in each case.
statistical mechanics, and nuclear and particle physics. Uses Consult N. Mavalvala
modern physics experiments to develop laboratory technique,
systematic troubleshooting, professional scientic attitude, data
Undergraduate Elective Subjects
analysis skills, and reasoning about uncertainty; provides extensive
training in oral and written communication methods. Continues 8.20 Introduction to Special Relativity
8.13 practice in these skills using more advanced experiments and Prereq: Calculus I (GIR) and Physics I (GIR)
adds an exploratory project element in which students develop U (IAP)
an experiment from the proposal and design stage to a nal 2-0-7 units. REST
presentation of results in a poster session. Limited to 12 students per
section. Introduces the basic ideas and equations of Einstein's special
G. Roland theory of relativity. Topics include Lorentz transformations, length
contraction and time dilation, four vectors, Lorentz invariants,
8.16 Data Science in Physics relativistic energy and momentum, relativistic kinematics, Doppler
Subject meets with 8.316 shi, space-time diagrams, relativity paradoxes, and some concepts
Prereq: 8.04 and (6.100A, 6.100B, or permission of instructor) of general relativity. Intended for freshmen and sophomores. Not
U (Spring) usable as a restricted elective by Physics majors. Credit cannot be
3-0-9 units received for 8.20 if credit for 8.033 is or has been received in the
same or prior terms.
Aims to present modern computational methods by providing S. Vitale
realistic, contemporary examples of how these computational
methods apply to physics research. Designed around research 8.21 Physics of Energy
modules in which each module provides experience with a specic Prereq: Calculus II (GIR), Chemistry (GIR), and Physics II (GIR)
scientic challenge. Modules include: analyzing LIGO open data; U (Spring)
measuring electroweak boson to quark decays; understanding 5-0-7 units. REST
the cosmic microwave background; and lattice QCD/Ising model.
Experience in Python helpful but not required. Lectures are viewed A comprehensive introduction to the fundamental physics of energy
outside of class; in-class time is dedicated to problem-solving and systems that emphasizes quantitative analysis. Focuses on the
discussion. Students taking graduate version complete additional fundamental physical principles underlying energy processes and on
assignments. the application of these principles to practical calculations. Applies
P. Harris mechanics and electromagnetism to energy systems; introduces and
applies basic ideas from thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and
8.18 Research Problems in Undergraduate Physics nuclear physics. Examines energy sources, conversion, transport,
Prereq: Permission of instructor losses, storage, conservation, and end uses. Analyzes the physics of
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) side eects, such as global warming and radiation hazards. Provides
Units arranged [P/D/F] students with technical tools and perspective to evaluate energy
Can be repeated for credit. choices quantitatively at both national policy and personal levels.
R. Jae
Opportunity for undergraduates to engage in experimental or
theoretical research under the supervision of a sta member.
Specic approval required in each case.
Consult N. Mavalvala

14 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.223 Classical Mechanics II 8.226 Forty-three Orders of Magnitude

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and Physics I (GIR) Prereq: (8.04 and 8.044) or permission of instructor
U (IAP) Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
2-0-4 units Acad Year 2025-2026: U (Spring)
3-0-9 units
A broad, theoretical treatment of classical mechanics, useful in its
own right for treating complex dynamical problems, but essential to Examines the widespread societal implications of current scientic
understanding the foundations of quantum mechanics and statistical discoveries in physics across forty-three orders of magnitude in
physics. Generalized coordinates, Lagrangian and Hamiltonian length scale. Addresses topics ranging from climate change to
formulations, canonical transformations, and Poisson brackets. nuclear nonproliferation. Students develop their ability to express
Applications to continuous media. The relativistic Lagrangian and concepts at a level accessible to the public and to present a well-
Maxwell's equations. reasoned argument on a topic that is a part of the national debate.
Sta Requires diverse writing assignments, including substantial papers.
Enrollment limited.
8.224 Exploring Black Holes: General Relativity and J. Conrad
Astrophysics
Prereq: 8.033 or 8.20 8.228 Relativity II
Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered Prereq: 8.033 or permission of instructor
Acad Year 2025-2026: U (Fall) U (IAP)
3-0-9 units 2-0-4 units

Study of physical eects in the vicinity of a black hole as a basis A fast-paced and intensive introduction to general relativity, covering
for understanding general relativity, astrophysics, and elements advanced topics beyond the 8.033 curriculum. Provides students
of cosmology. Extension to current developments in theory and with a foundation for research relying on knowledge of general
observation. Energy and momentum in flat space-time; the metric; relativity, including gravitational waves and cosmology. Additional
curvature of space-time near rotating and nonrotating centers of topics in curvature, weak gravity, and cosmology.
attraction; trajectories and orbits of particles and light; elementary T. Slatyer
models of the Cosmos. Weekly meetings include an evening seminar
and recitation. The last third of the term is reserved for collaborative 8.231 Physics of Solids I
research projects on topics such as the Global Positioning System, Prereq: 8.044; Coreq: 8.05
solar system tests of relativity, descending into a black hole, U (Fall)
gravitational lensing, gravitational waves, Gravity Probe B, and more 4-0-8 units
advanced models of the cosmos. Subject has online components
that are open to selected MIT alumni. Alumni wishing to participate Introduction to the basic concepts of the quantum theory of solids.
should contact Professor Bertschinger at [email protected]. Limited to Topics: periodic structure and symmetry of crystals; diraction;
40. reciprocal lattice; chemical bonding; lattice dynamics, phonons,
E. Bertschinger thermal properties; free electron gas; model of metals; Bloch
theorem and band structure, nearly free electron approximation;
8.225[J] Einstein, Oppenheimer, Feynman: Physics in the 20th tight binding method; Fermi surface; semiconductors, electrons,
Century holes, impurities; optical properties, excitons; and magnetism.
Same subject as STS.042[J] S. Todadri
Prereq: None
Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
Acad Year 2025-2026: U (Spring)
3-0-9 units. HASS-H

See description under subject STS.042[J]. Enrollment limited.

D. I. Kaiser

Department of Physics | 15
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.241 Introduction to Biological Physics 8.276 Nuclear and Particle Physics

Prereq: Physics II (GIR) and (8.044 or (5.601 and 5.602)) Prereq: 8.033 and 8.04
Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered U (Spring)
Acad Year 2025-2026: U (Spring) Not oered regularly; consult department
4-0-8 units 4-0-8 units
Credit cannot also be received for 20.315, 20.415
Presents a modern view of the fundamental structure of matter.
Introduces the main concepts of biological physics, with a focus Starting from the Standard Model, which views leptons and quarks
on biophysical phenomena at the molecular and cellular scales. as basic building blocks of matter, establishes the properties
Presents the role of entropy and diusive transport in living matter; and interactions of these particles. Explores applications of this
challenges to life resulting from the highly viscous environment phenomenology to both particle and nuclear physics. Emphasizes
present at microscopic scales, including constraints on force, current topics in nuclear and particle physics research at MIT.
motion and transport within cells, tissues, and fluids; principles Intended for students with a basic knowledge of relativity and
of how cellular machinery (e.g., molecular motors) can convert quantum physics concepts.
electro-chemical energy sources to mechanical forces and motion. M. Williams
Also covers polymer physics relevant to DNA and other biological
polymers, including the study of congurations, fluctuations, 8.277 Introduction to Particle Accelerators
rigidity, and entropic elasticity. Meets with 20.315 and 20.415 when Prereq: (6.2300 or 8.07) and permission of instructor
oered concurrently. U (Fall, IAP, Spring)
J. Gore Not oered regularly; consult department
Units arranged
8.245[J] Viruses, Pandemics, and Immunity Can be repeated for credit.
Same subject as 5.003[J], 10.382[J], HST.439[J]
Subject meets with 5.002[J], 10.380[J], HST.438[J] Principles of acceleration: beam properties; linear accelerators,
Prereq: None synchrotrons, and storage rings. Accelerator technologies:
U (Spring) radio frequency cavities, bending and focusing magnets, beam
Not oered regularly; consult department diagnostics. Particle beam optics and dynamics. Special topics:
2-0-1 units measures of accelerators performance in science, medicine and
industry; synchrotron radiation sources; free electron lasers; high-
See description under subject HST.439[J]. HST.438[J] intended for energy colliders; and accelerators for radiation therapy. May be
rst-year students; all others should take HST.439[J]. repeated for credit for a maximum of 12 units.
A. Chakraborty W. Barletta

8.251 String Theory for Undergraduates 8.282[J] Introduction to Astronomy

Prereq: 8.033, 8.044, and 8.05 Same subject as 12.402[J]
Acad Year 2024-2025: U (Spring) Prereq: Physics I (GIR)
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered U (Spring)
4-0-8 units 3-0-6 units. REST
Credit cannot also be received for 8.821
Quantitative introduction to the physics of planets, stars, galaxies
Introduction to the main concepts of string theory, i.e., quantum and our universe, from origin to ultimate fate, with emphasis
mechanics of a relativistic string. Develops aspects of string on the physics tools and observational techniques that enable
theory and makes it accessible to students familiar with basic our understanding. Topics include our solar system, extrasolar
electromagnetism and statistical mechanics, including the study of planets; our Sun and other "normal" stars, star formation, evolution
D-branes and string thermodynamics. Meets with 8.821 when oered and death, supernovae, compact objects (white dwarfs, neutron
concurrently. stars, pulsars, stellar-mass black holes); galactic structure, star
H. Liu clusters, interstellar medium, dark matter; other galaxies, quasars,
supermassive black holes, gravitational waves; cosmic large-scale
structure, origin, evolution and fate of our universe, inflation, dark
energy, cosmic microwave background radiation, gravitational
lensing, 21cm tomography. Not usable as a restricted elective by
Physics majors.
M. Tegmark

16 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.284 Modern Astrophysics 8.292[J] Fluid Physics

Prereq: 8.04 Same subject as 1.066[J], 12.330[J]
U (Fall) Prereq: 5.60, 8.044, or permission of instructor
3-0-9 units U (Spring)
3-0-9 units
Application of physics (Newtonian, statistical, and quantum
mechanics; special and general relativity) to fundamental processes A physics-based introduction to the properties of fluids and fluid
that occur in celestial objects. Includes main-sequence stars, systems, with examples drawn from a broad range of sciences,
collapsed stars (white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes), including atmospheric physics and astrophysics. Denitions
pulsars, galaxies, active galaxies, quasars, and cosmology. of fluids and the notion of continuum. Equations of state and
Electromagnetic and gravitational radiation signatures of continuity, hydrostatics and conservation of momentum; ideal fluids
astrophysical phenomena explored through examination of and Euler's equation; viscosity and the Navier-Stokes equation.
observational data. No prior knowledge of astronomy required. Energy considerations, fluid thermodynamics, and isentropic
J. Hewitt flow. Compressible versus incompressible and rotational versus
irrotational flow; Bernoulli's theorem; steady flow, streamlines and
8.286 The Early Universe potential flow. Circulation and vorticity. Kelvin's theorem. Boundary
Prereq: Physics II (GIR) and 18.03 layers. Fluid waves and instabilities. Quantum fluids.
Acad Year 2024-2025: U (Fall) L. Bourouiba
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
3-0-9 units. REST 8.295 Practical Experience in Physics
Prereq: None
Introduction to modern cosmology. First half deals with the U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
development of the big bang theory from 1915 to 1980, and latter half 0-1-0 units
with recent impact of particle theory. Topics: special relativity and Can be repeated for credit.
the Doppler eect, Newtonian cosmological models, introduction
to non-Euclidean spaces, thermal radiation and early history of For Course 8 students participating in o-campus experiences in
the universe, big bang nucleosynthesis, introduction to grand physics. Before registering for this subject, students must have an
unied theories and other recent developments in particle theory, internship oer from a company or organization and must identify
baryogenesis, the inflationary universe model, and the evolution of a Physics advisor. Upon completion of the project, student must
galactic structure. submit a letter from the company or organization describing the work
A. Guth accomplished, along with a substantive nal report from the student
approved by the MIT advisor. Subject to departmental approval.
8.287[J] Observational Techniques of Optical Astronomy Consult departmental academic oce.
Same subject as 12.410[J] Consult N. Mavalvala
Prereq: 8.282[J], 12.409, or other introductory astronomy course
U (Fall) 8.298 Selected Topics in Physics
3-4-8 units. Institute LAB Prereq: Permission of instructor
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
See description under subject 12.410[J]. Limited to 18; preference to Units arranged
Course 8 and Course 12 majors and minors. Can be repeated for credit.
M. Person, R. Teague
Presentation of topics of current interest, with content varying from
8.290[J] Extrasolar Planets: Physics and Detection Techniques year to year.
Same subject as 12.425[J] Consult I. Stewart
Subject meets with 12.625
Prereq: 8.03 and 18.03
U (Fall)
3-0-9 units. REST

See description under subject 12.425[J].

S. Seager

Department of Physics | 17
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.299 Physics Teaching 8.S199 Special Subject: Physics (New)

Prereq: None Prereq: None
U (Fall, Spring) U (Fall, IAP, Spring)
Units arranged [P/D/F] Not oered regularly; consult department
Can be repeated for credit. Units arranged [P/D/F]

For qualied undergraduate students interested in gaining some Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
experience in teaching. Laboratory, tutorial, or classroom teaching included in the curriculum.
under the supervision of a faculty member. Students selected by Sta
interview.
Consult N. Mavalvala 8.S227 Special Subject: Physics
Prereq: None
8.EPE UPOP Engineering Practice Experience U (Fall)
Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Not oered regularly; consult department
Oered under: 1.EPE, 2.EPE, 3.EPE, 6.EPE, 8.EPE, 10.EPE, 15.EPE, 3-0-9 units
16.EPE, 20.EPE, 22.EPE
Prereq: None Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
U (Fall, Spring) included in the curriculum.
0-0-1 units R. Price
Can be repeated for credit.
8.S271 Special Subject: Physics
See description under subject 2.EPE. Application required; consult Prereq: None
UPOP website for more information. Acad Year 2024-2025: U (Spring)
K. Tan-Tiongco, D. Fordell Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
2-0-4 units
8.S014 Special Subject: Physics (New)
Prereq: None Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
U (IAP) included in the curriculum.
2-0-4 units R. Redwine

Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise 8.S30 Special Subject: Physics
included in the curriculum. Prereq: None
K. Rajagopal Acad Year 2024-2025: U (Fall, Spring)
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
8.S02 Special Subject: Physics Units arranged
Prereq: None
U (Spring) Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
Not oered regularly; consult department included in the curriculum.
1-0-2 units A. Bernstein, J. Walsh

Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise 8.S50 Special Subject: Physics
included in the curriculum. Prereq: None
P. Dourmashkin U (IAP)
Not oered regularly; consult department
8.S198 Special Subject: Physics (New) Units arranged [P/D/F]
Prereq: None Can be repeated for credit.
U (Fall, IAP, Spring)
Not oered regularly; consult department Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
Units arranged included in the curriculum.
Can be repeated for credit. E. Bertschinger

Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise

included in the curriculum.
Sta

18 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.UR Undergraduate Research 8.315[J] Mathematical Methods in Nanophotonics

Prereq: None Same subject as 18.369[J]
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) Prereq: 8.07, 18.303, or permission of instructor
Units arranged [P/D/F] Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
Can be repeated for credit. Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units
Research opportunities in physics. For further information, contact
the departmental UROP coordinator. See description under subject 18.369[J].
N. Mavalvala S. G. Johnson

8.THU Undergraduate Physics Thesis 8.316 Data Science in Physics

Prereq: None Subject meets with 8.16
U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) Prereq: 8.04 and (6.100A, 6.100B, or permission of instructor)
Units arranged Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
Can be repeated for credit. Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units
Program of research leading to the writing of an S.B. thesis; to be
arranged by the student under approved supervision. Aims to present modern computational methods by providing
Information: N. Mavalvala realistic, contemporary examples of how these computational
methods apply to physics research. Designed around research
modules in which each module provides experience with a specic
Graduate Subjects
scientic challenge. Modules include: analyzing LIGO open data;
8.309 Classical Mechanics III measuring electroweak boson to quark decays; understanding
Subject meets with 8.09 the cosmic microwave background; and lattice QCD/Ising model.
Prereq: None Experience in Python helpful but not required. Lectures are viewed
G (Spring) outside of class; in-class time is dedicated to problem-solving and
4-0-8 units discussion. Students taking graduate version complete additional
assignments.
Covers Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics, systems with P. Harris
constraints, rigid body dynamics, vibrations, central forces,
Hamilton-Jacobi theory, action-angle variables, perturbation 8.321 Quantum Theory I
theory, and continuous systems. Provides an introduction to ideal Prereq: 8.05
and viscous fluid mechanics, including turbulence, as well as an G (Fall)
introduction to nonlinear dynamics, including chaos. Students taking 4-0-8 units
graduate version complete dierent assignments.
I. Stewart A two-term subject on quantum theory, stressing principles:
uncertainty relation, observables, eigenstates, eigenvalues,
8.311 Electromagnetic Theory I probabilities of the results of measurement, transformation theory,
Prereq: 8.07 equations of motion, and constants of motion. Symmetry in quantum
G (Spring) mechanics, representations of symmetry groups. Variational and
4-0-8 units perturbation approximations. Systems of identical particles and
applications. Time-dependent perturbation theory. Scattering
Basic principles of electromagnetism: experimental basis, theory: phase shis, Born approximation. The quantum theory of
electrostatics, magnetic elds of steady currents, motional emf and radiation. Second quantization and many-body theory. Relativistic
electromagnetic induction, Maxwell's equations, propagation and quantum mechanics of one electron.
radiation of electromagnetic waves, electric and magnetic properties H. Liu
of matter, and conservation laws. Subject uses appropriate
mathematics but emphasizes physical phenomena and principles.
J. Belcher

Department of Physics | 19
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.322 Quantum Theory II 8.325 Relativistic Quantum Field Theory III

Prereq: 8.07 and 8.321 Prereq: 8.324
Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered G (Spring)
Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring) 4-0-8 units
4-0-8 units
The third and last term of the quantum eld theory sequence. Its aim
A two-term subject on quantum theory, stressing principles: is the proper theoretical discussion of the physics of the standard
uncertainty relation, observables, eigenstates, eigenvalues, model. Topics: quantum chromodynamics; Higgs phenomenon
probabilities of the results of measurement, transformation theory, and a description of the standard model; deep-inelastic scattering
equations of motion, and constants of motion. Symmetry in quantum and structure functions; basics of lattice gauge theory; operator
mechanics, representations of symmetry groups. Variational and products and eective theories; detailed structure of the standard
perturbation approximations. Systems of identical particles and model; spontaneously broken gauge theory and its quantization;
applications. Time-dependent perturbation theory. Scattering instantons and theta-vacua; topological defects; introduction to
theory: phase shis, Born approximation. The quantum theory of supersymmetry.
radiation. Second quantization and many-body theory. Relativistic W. Taylor
quantum mechanics of one electron.
S. Todadri 8.333 Statistical Mechanics I
Prereq: 8.044 and 8.05
8.323 Relativistic Quantum Field Theory I G (Fall)
Prereq: 8.321 4-0-8 units
G (Spring)
4-0-8 units First part of a two-subject sequence on statistical mechanics.
Examines the laws of thermodynamics and the concepts of
A one-term self-contained subject in quantum eld theory. Concepts temperature, work, heat, and entropy. Postulates of classical
and basic techniques are developed through applications in statistical mechanics, microcanonical, canonical, and grand
elementary particle physics, and condensed matter physics. canonical distributions; applications to lattice vibrations, ideal
Topics: classical eld theory, symmetries, and Noether's theorem. gas, photon gas. Quantum statistical mechanics; Fermi and Bose
Quantization of scalar elds, spin elds, and Gauge bosons. systems. Interacting systems: cluster expansions, van der Waal's
Feynman graphs, analytic properties of amplitudes and unitarity gas, and mean-eld theory.
of the S-matrix. Calculations in quantum electrodynamics (QED). M. Kardar
Introduction to renormalization.
T. Slatyer 8.334 Statistical Mechanics II
Prereq: 8.333
8.324 Relativistic Quantum Field Theory II Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
Prereq: 8.322 and 8.323 Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
G (Fall) 4-0-8 units
4-0-8 units
Second part of a two-subject sequence on statistical mechanics.
The second term of the quantum eld theory sequence. Develops Explores topics from modern statistical mechanics: the
in depth some of the topics discussed in 8.323 and introduces hydrodynamic limit and classical eld theories. Phase transitions
some advanced material. Topics: perturbation theory and Feynman and broken symmetries: universality, correlation functions,
diagrams, scattering theory, Quantum Electrodynamics, one loop and scaling theory. The renormalization approach to collective
renormalization, quantization of non-abelian gauge theories, the phenomena. Dynamic critical behavior. Random systems.
Standard Model of particle physics, other topics. Sta
T. Slatyer
8.351[J] Classical Mechanics: A Computational Approach
Same subject as 6.5160[J], 12.620[J]
Prereq: Physics I (GIR), 18.03, and permission of instructor
G (Fall)
3-3-6 units

See description under subject 12.620[J].

J. Wisdom, G. J. Sussman

20 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.370[J] Quantum Computation 8.391 Pre-Thesis Research

Same subject as 2.111[J], 6.6410[J], 18.435[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor
Prereq: 8.05, 18.06, 18.700, 18.701, or 18.C06[J] G (Fall)
G (Fall) Units arranged [P/D/F]
3-0-9 units Can be repeated for credit.

See description under subject 18.435[J]. Advanced problems in any area of experimental or theoretical
I. Chuang, A. Harrow, P. Shor physics, with assigned reading and consultations.
Sta
8.371[J] Quantum Information Science
Same subject as 6.6420[J], 18.436[J] 8.392 Pre-Thesis Research
Prereq: 18.435[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Spring) G (Spring, Summer)
3-0-9 units Units arranged [P/D/F]
Can be repeated for credit.
Examines quantum computation and quantum information. Topics
include quantum circuits, the quantum Fourier transform and Advanced problems in any area of experimental or theoretical
search algorithms, the quantum operations formalism, quantum physics, with assigned reading and consultations.
error correction, Calderbank-Shor-Steane and stabilizer codes, Sta
fault tolerant quantum computation, quantum data compression,
quantum entanglement, capacity of quantum channels, and quantum 8.395[J] Teaching College-Level Science and Engineering
cryptography and the proof of its security. Prior knowledge of Same subject as 1.95[J], 5.95[J], 7.59[J], 18.094[J]
quantum mechanics required. Subject meets with 2.978
I. Chuang, A. Harrow Prereq: None
G (Fall)
8.372 Quantum Information Science III 2-0-2 units
Prereq: 8.371[J]
Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) See description under subject 5.95[J].
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered J. Rankin
3-0-9 units
8.396[J] Leadership and Professional Strategies & Skills
Third subject in the Quantum Information Science (QIS) sequence, Training (LEAPS), Part I: Advancing Your Professional Strategies
building on 8.370[J] and 8.371[J]. Further explores core topics and Skills
in quantum information science, such as quantum information Same subject as 5.961[J], 9.980[J], 12.396[J], 18.896[J]
theory, error-correction, physical implementations, algorithms, Prereq: None
cryptography, and complexity. Draws connections between QIS and G (Spring; second half of term)
related elds, such as many-body physics, and applications such as 2-0-1 units
sensing.
A. Harrow Part I (of two parts) of the LEAPS graduate career development and
training series. Topics include: navigating and charting an academic
8.381, 8.382 Selected Topics in Theoretical Physics career with condence; convincing an audience with clear writing
Prereq: Permission of instructor and arguments; mastering public speaking and communications;
G (Fall, Spring) networking at conferences and building a brand; identifying
Not oered regularly; consult department transferable skills; preparing for a successful job application
3-0-9 units package and job interviews; understanding group dynamics and
dierent leadership styles; leading a group or team with purpose
Topics of current interest in theoretical physics, varying from year to and condence. Postdocs encouraged to attend as non-registered
year. Subject not routinely oered; given when sucient interest is participants. Limited to 80.
indicated. A. Frebel
Sta

Department of Physics | 21
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.397[J] Leadership and Professional Strategies & Skills Physics of Atoms, Radiation, Solids, Fluids, and Plasmas
Training (LEAPS), Part II: Developing Your Leadership
Competencies 8.421 Atomic and Optical Physics I
Same subject as 5.962[J], 9.981[J], 12.397[J], 18.897[J] Prereq: 8.05
Prereq: None Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
G (Spring; rst half of term) Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
2-0-1 units 3-0-9 units

Part II (of two parts) of the LEAPS graduate career development and The rst of a two-term subject sequence that provides the
training series. Topics covered include gaining self awareness and foundations for contemporary research in selected areas of atomic
awareness of others, and communicating with dierent personality and optical phsyics. The interaction of radiation with atoms:
types; learning about team building practices; strategies for resonance; absorption, stimulated and spontaneous emission;
recognizing and resolving conflict and bias; advocating for diversity methods of resonance, dressed atom formalism, masers and lasers,
and inclusion; becoming organizationally savvy; having the courage cavity quantum electrodynamics; structure of simple atoms, behavior
to be an ethical leader; coaching, mentoring, and developing others; in very strong elds; fundamental tests: time reversal, parity
championing, accepting, and implementing change. Postdocs violations, Bell's inequalities; and experimental methods.
encouraged to attend as non-registered participants. Limited to 80. M. Zwierlein
D. Rigos
8.422 Atomic and Optical Physics II
8.398 Doctoral Seminar in Physics Prereq: 8.05
Prereq: None Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall)
G (Fall, Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
1-0-2 units 3-0-9 units
Can be repeated for credit.
The second of a two-term subject sequence that provides the
A seminar for rst-year PhD students presenting topics of current foundations for contemporary research in selected areas of atomic
interest, with content varying from year to year. Open only to rst- and optical physics. Non-classical states of light- squeezed states;
year graduate students in Physics. multi-photon processes, Raman scattering; coherence- level
Consult J. Thaler crossings, quantum beats, double resonance, superradiance;
trapping and cooling- light forces, laser cooling, atom optics,
8.399 Physics Teaching spectroscopy of trapped atoms and ions; atomic interactions-
Prereq: Permission of instructor classical collisions, quantum scattering theory, ultracold collisions;
G (Fall, Spring) and experimental methods.
Units arranged [P/D/F] Sta
Can be repeated for credit.
8.431[J] Nonlinear Optics
For qualied graduate students interested in gaining some Same subject as 6.6340[J]
experience in teaching. Laboratory, tutorial, or classroom teaching Prereq: 6.2300 or 8.03
under the supervision of a faculty member. Students selected by G (Spring)
interview. 3-0-9 units
Consult C. Paus
See description under subject 6.6340[J].
J. G. Fujimoto

22 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.481, 8.482 Selected Topics in Physics of Atoms and Radiation 8.513 Many-Body Theory for Condensed Matter Systems
Prereq: 8.321 Prereq: 8.033, 8.05, 8.08, and 8.231
G (Fall, Spring) Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall)
Not oered regularly; consult department Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

Presentation of topics of current interest, with content varying from Concepts and physical pictures behind various phenomena that
year to year. Subject not routinely oered; given when sucient appear in interacting many-body systems. Visualization occurs
interest is indicated. through concentration on path integral, mean-eld theories and
Sta semiclassical picture of fluctuations around mean-eld state. Topics
covered: interacting boson/fermion systems, Fermi liquid theory
8.511 Theory of Solids I and bosonization, symmetry breaking and nonlinear sigma-model,
Prereq: 8.231 quantum gauge theory, quantum Hall theory, mean-eld theory
G (Fall) of spin liquids and quantum order, string-net condensation and
3-0-9 units emergence of light and fermions.
X-G. Wen
First term of a theoretical treatment of the physics of solids. Concept
of elementary excitations. Symmetry- translational, rotational, and 8.514 Strongly Correlated Systems in Condensed Matter Physics
time-reversal invariances- theory of representations. Energy bands- Prereq: 8.322 and 8.333
electrons and phonons. Topological band theory. Survey of electronic Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring)
structure of metals, semimetals, semiconductors, and insulators, Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
excitons, critical points, response functions, and interactions in the 3-0-9 units
electron gas. Theory of superconductivity.
L. Levitov Study of condensed matter systems where interactions between
electrons play an important role. Topics vary depending on lecturer
8.512 Theory of Solids II but may include low-dimension magnetic and electronic systems,
Prereq: 8.511 disorder and quantum transport, magnetic impurities (the Kondo
G (Spring) problem), quantum spin systems, the Hubbard model and high-
3-0-9 units temperature superconductors. Topics are chosen to illustrate the
application of diagrammatic techniques, eld-theory approaches,
Second term of a theoretical treatment of the physics of solids. and renormalization group methods in condensed matter physics.
Interacting electron gas: many-body formulation, Feynman S. Todadri
diagrams, random phase approximation and beyond. General
theory of linear response: dielectric function; sum rules; plasmons; 8.581, 8.582 Selected Topics in Condensed Matter Physics
optical properties; applications to semiconductors, metals, and Prereq: Permission of instructor
insulators. Transport properties: non-interacting electron gas Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring)
with impurities, diusons. Quantum Hall eect: integral and Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
fractional. Electron-phonon interaction: general theory, applications 3-0-9 units
to metals, semiconductors and insulators, polarons, and eld- Can be repeated for credit.
theory description. Superconductivity: experimental observations,
phenomenological theories, and BCS theory. Presentation of topics of current interest, with contents varying from
L. Levitov year to year. Subject not routinely oered; given when sucient
interest is indicated.
Sta

Department of Physics | 23
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.590[J] Topics in Biophysics and Physical Biology 8.593[J] Biological Physics

Same subject as 7.74[J], 20.416[J] Same subject as HST.450[J]
Prereq: None Prereq: 8.044 recommended but not necessary
Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered G (Spring)
Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) Not oered regularly; consult department
2-0-4 units 4-0-8 units

Provides broad exposure to research in biophysics and physical Designed to provide seniors and rst-year graduate students with
biology, with emphasis on the critical evaluation of scientic a quantitative, analytical understanding of selected biological
literature. Weekly meetings include in-depth discussion of scientic phenomena. Topics include experimental and theoretical basis
literature led by distinct faculty on active research topics. Each for the phase boundaries and equation of state of concentrated
session also includes brief discussion of non-research topics protein solutions, with application to diseases such as sickle
including eective presentation skills, writing papers and fellowship cell anemia and cataract. Protein-ligand binding and linkage
proposals, choosing scientic and technical research topics, time and the theory of allosteric regulation of protein function, with
management, and scientic ethics. application to proteins as stores as transporters in respiration,
J. Gore, N. Fakhri enzymes in metabolic pathways, membrane receptors, regulators
of gene expression, and self-assembling scaolds. The physics of
8.591[J] Systems Biology locomotion and chemoreception in bacteria and the biophysics of
Same subject as 7.81[J] vision, including the theory of transparency of the eye, molecular
Subject meets with 7.32 basis of photo reception, and the detection of light as a signal-to-
Prereq: (18.03 and 18.05) or permission of instructor noise discrimination.
G (Fall) G. Benedek
3-0-9 units
8.613[J] Introduction to Plasma Physics I
Introduction to cellular and population-level systems biology with Same subject as 22.611[J]
an emphasis on synthetic biology, modeling of genetic networks, Prereq: (6.2300 or 8.07) and (18.04 or Coreq: 18.075)
cell-cell interactions, and evolutionary dynamics. Cellular systems G (Fall)
include genetic switches and oscillators, network motifs, genetic 3-0-9 units
network evolution, and cellular decision-making. Population-
level systems include models of pattern formation, cell-cell See description under subject 22.611[J].
communication, and evolutionary systems biology. Students taking N. Loureiro, I. Hutchinson
graduate version explore the subject in more depth.
J. Gore 8.614[J] Introduction to Plasma Physics II
Same subject as 22.612[J]
8.592[J] Statistical Physics in Biology Prereq: 22.611[J]
Same subject as HST.452[J] Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring)
Prereq: 8.333 or permission of instructor Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
3-0-9 units See description under subject 22.612[J].
N. Loureiro
A survey of problems at the interface of statistical physics and
modern biology: bioinformatic methods for extracting information
content of DNA; gene nding, sequence comparison, phylogenetic
trees. Physical interactions responsible for structure of biopolymers;
DNA double helix, secondary structure of RNA, elements of protein
folding. Considerations of force, motion, and packaging; protein
motors, membranes. Collective behavior of biological elements;
cellular networks, neural networks, and evolution.
M. Kardar, L. Mirny

24 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.624 Plasma Waves 8.642 Physics of High-Energy Plasmas II

Prereq: 22.611[J] Prereq: 22.611[J]
Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) G (Fall)
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered Not oered regularly; consult department
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

Comprehensive theory of electromagnetic waves in a magnetized Physics of High-Energy Plasmas I and II address basic concepts of
plasma. Wave propagation in cold and hot plasmas. Energy flow. plasmas, with temperatures of thermonuclear interest, relevant
Absorption by Landau and cyclotron damping and by transit time to fusion research and astrophysics. Microscopic transport
magnetic pumping (TTMP). Wave propagation in inhomogeneous processes due to interparticle collisions and collective modes (e.g.,
plasma: accessibility, WKB theory, mode conversion, connection microinstabilities). Relevant macroscopic transport coecients
formulae, and Budden tunneling. Applications to RF plasma heating, (electrical resistivity, thermal conductivities, particle "diusion").
wave propagation in the ionosphere and laser-plasma interactions. Runaway and slide-away regimes. Magnetic reconnection
Wave propagation in toroidal plasmas, and applications to ion processes and their relevance to experimental observations.
cyclotron (ICRF), electron cyclotron (ECRH), and lower hybrid (LHH) Radiation emission from inhomogeneous plasmas. Conditions for
wave heating. Quasi-linear theory and applications to RF current thermonuclear burning and ignition (D-T and "advanced" fusion
drive in tokamaks. Extensive discussion of relevant experimental reactions, plasmas with polarized nuclei). Role of "impurity" nuclei.
observations. "Finite-β" (pressure) regimes and ballooning modes. Convective
M. Porkolab modes in conguration and velocity space. Trapped particle regimes.
Nonlinear and explosive instabilities. Interaction of positive and
8.641 Physics of High-Energy Plasmas I negative energy modes. Each subject can be taken independently.
Prereq: 22.611[J] Sta
G (Fall)
Not oered regularly; consult department 8.670[J] Principles of Plasma Diagnostics
3-0-9 units Same subject as 22.67[J]
Prereq: 22.611[J]
Physics of High-Energy Plasmas I and II address basic concepts of Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
plasmas, with temperatures of thermonuclear interest, relevant Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall)
to fusion research and astrophysics. Microscopic transport 4-4-4 units
processes due to interparticle collisions and collective modes (e.g.,
microinstabilities). Relevant macroscopic transport coecients See description under subject 22.67[J].
(electrical resistivity, thermal conductivities, particle "diusion"). J. Hare, A. White
Runaway and slide-away regimes. Magnetic reconnection
processes and their relevance to experimental observations. 8.681, 8.682 Selected Topics in Fluid and Plasma Physics
Radiation emission from inhomogeneous plasmas. Conditions for Prereq: 22.611[J]
thermonuclear burning and ignition (D-T and "advanced" fusion G (Fall, Spring)
reactions, plasmas with polarized nuclei). Role of "impurity" nuclei. Not oered regularly; consult department
"Finite-β" (pressure) regimes and ballooning modes. Convective 3-0-9 units
modes in conguration and velocity space. Trapped particle regimes. Can be repeated for credit.
Nonlinear and explosive instabilities. Interaction of positive and
negative energy modes. Each subject can be taken independently. Presentation of topics of current interest, with content varying from
Sta year to year. Subject not routinely oered; given when interest is
indicated.
Consult M. Porkolab

Department of Physics | 25
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Nuclear and Particle Physics 8.751[J] Quantum Technology and Devices

Same subject as 22.51[J]
8.701 Introduction to Nuclear and Particle Physics Subject meets with 22.022
Prereq: None. Coreq: 8.321 Prereq: 22.11
G (Fall) G (Spring)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units

The phenomenology and experimental foundations of particle and See description under subject 22.51[J].
nuclear physics; the fundamental forces and particles, composites. P. Cappellaro
Interactions of particles with matter, and detectors. SU(2), SU(3),
models of mesons and baryons. QED, weak interactions, parity 8.781, 8.782 Selected Topics in Nuclear Theory
violation, lepton-nucleon scattering, and structure functions. QCD, Prereq: 8.323
gluon eld and color. W and Z elds, electro-weak unication, G (Fall, Spring)
the CKM matrix. Nucleon-nucleon interactions, properties of Not oered regularly; consult department
nuclei, single- and collective- particle models. Electron and hadron 3-0-9 units
interactions with nuclei. Relativistic heavy ion collisions, and
transition to quark-gluon plasma. Presents topics of current interest in nuclear structure and reaction
M. Williams theory, with content varying from year to year. Subject not routinely
oered; given when sucient interest is indicated.
8.711 Nuclear Physics Consult E. Farhi
Prereq: 8.321 and 8.701
G (Spring) 8.811 Particle Physics
4-0-8 units Prereq: 8.701
G (Fall)
Modern, advanced study in the experimental foundations and 3-0-9 units
theoretical understanding of the structure of nuclei, beginning with
the two- and three-nucleon problems. Basic nuclear properties, Modern review of particles, interactions, and recent experiments.
collective and single-particle motion, giant resonances, mean Experimental and analytical methods. QED, electroweak theory,
eld models, interacting boson model. Nuclei far from stability, and the Standard Model as tested in recent key experiments at ee
nuclear astrophysics, big-bang and stellar nucleosynthesis. Electron and pp colliders. Mass generation, W, Z, and Higgs physics. Weak
scattering: nucleon momentum distributions, scaling, olarization decays of mesons, including heavy flavors with QCD corrections.
observables. Parity-violating electron scattering. Neutrino physics. Mixing phenomena for K, D, B mesons and neutrinos. CP violation
Current results in relativistic heavy ion physics and hadronic physics. with results from B-factories. Future physics expectations: Higgs,
Frontiers and future facilities. SUSY, sub-structure as addressed by new experiments at the LHC
O. Hen collider.
L. Winslow
8.712 Advanced Topics in Nuclear Physics
Prereq: 8.711 or permission of instructor 8.812 Graduate Experimental Physics
G (Fall, Spring) Prereq: 8.701
Not oered regularly; consult department G (IAP)
3-0-9 units Not oered regularly; consult department
Can be repeated for credit. 1-8-3 units

Subject for experimentalists and theorists with rotation of the Provides practical experience in particle detection with verication
following topics: (1) Nuclear chromodynamics-- introduction to QCD, by (Feynman) calculations. Students perform three experiments;
structure of nucleons, lattice QCD, phases of hadronic matter; and at least one requires actual construction following design. Topics
relativistic heavy ion collisions. (2) Medium-energy physics-- nuclear include Compton eect, Fermi constant in muon decay, particle
and nucleon structure and dynamics studied with medium- and high- identication by time-of-flight, Cerenkov light, calorimeter response,
energy probes (neutrinos, photons, electrons, nucleons, pions, and tunnel eect in radioactive decays, angular distribution of cosmic
kaons). Studies of weak and strong interactions. rays, scattering, gamma-gamma nuclear correlations, and modern
Sta particle localization.
U. Becker

26 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.821 String Theory 8.871 Selected Topics in Theoretical Particle Physics

Prereq: 8.324 Prereq: 8.323
Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall)
3-0-9 units 3-0-9 units
Credit cannot also be received for 8.251 Can be repeated for credit.

An introduction to string theory. Basics of conformal eld theory; Presents topics of current interest in theoretical particle physics,
light-cone and covariant quantization of the relativistic bosonic with content varying from year to year. Subject not routinely oered;
string; quantization and spectrum of supersymmetric 10-dimensional given when sucient interest is indicated.
string theories; T-duality and D-branes; toroidal compactication F. Wilczek
and orbifolds; 11-dimensional supergravity and M-theory. Meets with
8.251 when oered concurrently. 8.872 Selected Topics in Theoretical Particle Physics
H. Liu Prereq: 8.323
Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
8.831 Supersymmetric Quantum Field Theories Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall)
Prereq: Permission of instructor 3-0-9 units
Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) Can be repeated for credit.
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered
3-0-9 units Presents topics of current interest in theoretical particle physics,
Can be repeated for credit. with content varying from year to year. Subject not routinely oered;
given when sucient interest is indicated.
Topics selected from the following: SUSY algebras and their particle W. Taylor
representations; Weyl and Majorana spinors; Lagrangians of basic
four-dimensional SUSY theories, both rigid SUSY and supergravity; 8.881, 8.882 Selected Topics in Experimental Particle Physics
supermultiplets of elds and superspace methods; renormalization Prereq: 8.811
properties, and the non-renormalization theorem; spontaneous G (Fall, Spring)
breakdown of SUSY; and phenomenological SUSY theories. Some Not oered regularly; consult department
prior knowledge of Noether's theorem, derivation and use of 3-0-9 units
Feynman rules, l-loop renormalization, and gauge theories is Can be repeated for credit.
essential.
J. Thaler Presents topics of current interest in experimental particle physics,
with content varying from year to year. Subject not routinely oered;
8.851 Eective Field Theory given when sucient interest is indicated.
Prereq: 8.324 Sta
Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
3-0-9 units
Credit cannot also be received for 8.S851

Covers the framework and tools of eective eld theory, including:

identifying degrees of freedom and symmetries; power counting
expansions (dimensional and otherwise); eld redenitions, bottom-
up and top-down eective theories; ne-tuned eective theories;
matching and Wilson coecients; reparameterization invariance;
and advanced renormalization group techniques. Main examples are
taken from particle and nuclear physics, including the So-Collinear
Eective Theory.
I. Stewart

Department of Physics | 27
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

Space Physics and Astrophysics 8.913 Plasma Astrophysics I

Prereq: Permission of instructor
8.901 Astrophysics I G (Fall)
Prereq: Permission of instructor Not oered regularly; consult department
G (Spring) 3-0-9 units
3-0-9 units
For students interested in space physics, astrophysics, and plasma
Size and time scales. Historical astronomy. Astronomical physics in general. Magnetospheres of rotating magnetized
instrumentation. Stars: spectra and classication. Stellar structure planets, ordinary stars, neutron stars, and black holes. Pulsar
equations and survey of stellar evolution. Stellar oscillations. models: processes for slowing down, particle acceleration, and
Degenerate and collapsed stars; radio pulsars. Interacting radiation emission; accreting plasmas and x-ray stars; stellar winds;
binary systems; accretion disks, x-ray sources. Gravitational heliosphere and solar wind- relevant magnetic eld conguration,
lenses; dark matter. Interstellar medium: HII regions, supernova measured particle distribution in velocity space and induced
remnants, molecular clouds, dust; radiative transfer; Jeans' mass; collective modes; stability of the current sheet and collisionless
star formation. High-energy astrophysics: Compton scattering, processes for magnetic reconnection; theory of collisionless shocks;
bremsstrahlung, synchrotron radiation, cosmic rays. Galactic stellar solitons; Ferroaro-Rosenbluth sheet; solar flare models; heating
distributions and populations; Oort constants; Oort limit; and processes of the solar corona; Earth's magnetosphere (auroral
globular clusters. phenomena and their interpretation, bowshock, magnetotail,
S. Hughes trapped particle eects); relationship between gravitational
(galactic) plasmas and electromagnetic plasmas. 8.913 deals with
8.902 Astrophysics II heliospheric, 8.914 with extra-heliospheric plasmas.
Prereq: 8.901 Sta
G (Fall)
3-0-9 units 8.914 Plasma Astrophysics II
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Galactic dynamics: potential theory, orbits, collisionless Boltzmann G (Spring)
equation, etc. Galaxy interactions. Groups and clusters; dark Not oered regularly; consult department
matter. Intergalactic medium; x-ray clusters. Active galactic nuclei: 3-0-9 units
unied models, black hole accretion, radio and optical jets, etc.
Homogeneity and isotropy, redshi, galaxy distance ladder. For students interested in space physics, astrophysics, and plasma
Newtonian cosmology. Roberston-Walker models and cosmography. physics in general. Magnetospheres of rotating magnetized
Early universe, primordial nucleosynthesis, recombination. Cosmic planets, ordinary stars, neutron stars, and black holes. Pulsar
microwave background radiation. Large-scale structure, galaxy models: processes for slowing down, particle acceleration, and
formation. radiation emission; accreting plasmas and x-ray stars; stellar winds;
M. McDonald heliosphere and solar wind- relevant magnetic eld conguration,
measured particle distribution in velocity space and induced
collective modes; stability of the current sheet and collisionless
processes for magnetic reconnection; theory of collisionless shocks;
solitons; Ferroaro-Rosenbluth sheet; solar flare models; heating
processes of the solar corona; Earth's magnetosphere (auroral
phenomena and their interpretation, bowshock, magnetotail,
trapped particle eects); relationship between gravitational
(galactic) plasmas and electromagnetic plasmas. 8.913 deals with
heliospheric, 8.914 with extra-heliospheric plasmas.
B. Coppi

28 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.921 Stellar Structure and Evolution 8.962 General Relativity

Prereq: Permission of instructor Prereq: 8.07, 18.03, and 18.06
G (Spring) G (Spring)
Not oered regularly; consult department 4-0-8 units
3-0-9 units
The basic principles of Einstein's general theory of relativity,
Observable stellar characteristics; overview of observational dierential geometry, experimental tests of general relativity, black
information. Principles underlying calculations of stellar structure. holes, and cosmology.
Physical processes in stellar interiors; properties of matter and A. Guth
radiation; radiative, conductive, and convective heat transport;
nuclear energy generation; nucleosynthesis; and neutrino emission. 8.971 Astrophysics Seminar
Protostars; the main sequence, and the solar neutrino flux; advanced Prereq: Permission of instructor
evolutionary stages; variable stars; planetary nebulae, supernovae, G (Fall, Spring)
white dwarfs, and neutron stars; close binary systems; and Not oered regularly; consult department
abundance of chemical elements. 2-0-4 units
Sta Can be repeated for credit.

8.942 Cosmology Advanced seminar on current topics, with a dierent focus each
Prereq: Permission of instructor term. Typical topics: astronomical instrumentation, numerical and
Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) statistical methods in astrophysics, gravitational lenses, neutron
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered stars and pulsars.
3-0-9 units Consult D. Chakrabarty

Thermal backgrounds in space. Cosmological principle and its 8.972 Astrophysics Seminar
consequences: Newtonian cosmology and types of "universes"; Prereq: Permission of instructor
survey of relativistic cosmology; horizons. Overview of evolution in G (Fall, Spring)
cosmology; radiation and element synthesis; physical models of Not oered regularly; consult department
the "early stages." Formation of large-scale structure to variability 2-0-4 units
of physical laws. First and last states. Some knowledge of relativity Can be repeated for credit.
expected. 8.962 recommended though not required.
K. Masui Advanced seminar on current topics, with a dierent focus each term.
Typical topics: gravitational lenses, active galactic nuclei, neutron
8.952 Particle Physics of the Early Universe stars and pulsars, galaxy formation, supernovae and supernova
Prereq: 8.323; Coreq: 8.324 remnants, brown dwarfs, and extrasolar planetary systems. The
Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) presenter at each session is selected by drawing names from a hat
Acad Year 2025-2026: Not oered containing those of all attendees. Oered if sucient interest is
3-0-9 units indicated.
Consult D. Chakrabarty
Basics of general relativity, standard big bang cosmology,
thermodynamics of the early universe, cosmic background radiation, 8.981, 8.982 Selected Topics in Astrophysics
primordial nucleosynthesis, basics of the standard model of particle Prereq: Permission of instructor
physics, electroweak and QCD phase transition, basics of group G (Spring)
theory, grand unied theories, baryon asymmetry, monopoles, Not oered regularly; consult department
cosmic strings, domain walls, axions, inflationary universe, and 3-0-9 units
structure formation. Can be repeated for credit.
A. Guth
Topics of current interest, varying from year to year. Subject not
routinely oered; given when sucient interest is indicated.
Consult D. Chakrabarty

Department of Physics | 29
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.995 Practical Experience in Physics 8.S308 Special Subject: Physics (New)

Prereq: None Prereq: None
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) G (IAP)
Units arranged [P/D/F] Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.
Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
For Course 8 students participating in o-campus experiences in included in the curriculum.
physics. Before registering for this subject, students must have an J. Tailleur
internship oer from a company or organization, must identify a
Physics advisor, and must receive prior approval from the Physics 8.S372 Special Subject: Physics
Department. Upon completion of the project, student must submit Prereq: None
a letter from the company or organization describing the work G (Spring)
accomplished, along with a substantive nal report from the student Not oered regularly; consult department
approved by the MIT advisor. Consult departmental academic oce. 3-0-9 units
Consult N. Mavalvala
Covers topics in Physics that are not oered in the regular
8.998 Teaching and Mentoring MIT Students curriculum.
Prereq: None A. Harrow
U (Fall, Spring)
2-0-1 units 8.S373 Special Subject: Physics
Prereq: None
Designed for rst-time physics mentors and others interested in Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
improving their knowledge and skills in teaching one-on-one and Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
in small groups, particularly TEAL TAs and graduate student TAs. 3-0-9 units
Topics include: cognition, metacognition, and the role of aect;
communication skills (practice listening, questioning, and eliciting Covers topics in Physics that are not oered in the regular
student ideas); the roles of motivation and mindset in learning; curriculum.
fostering belonging and self-ecacy through peer mentorship; S. Choi
facilitating small-group interactions to enhance peer instruction
and learning; physics-specic learning strategies, such as how to 8.S421 Special Subject: Physics
teach/learn problem solving; research-based techniques for eective Prereq: Permission of instructor
mentorship in STEM. Includes a one-hour class on pedagogy Acad Year 2024-2025: Not oered
topics, a one-hour weekly Physics Mentoring Community of Practice Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring)
meeting, and weekly assignments to read or watch material in Units arranged
preparation for class discussions, and written reflections before Can be repeated for credit.
class. Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
E. Bertschinger included in the curriculum.
W. Ketterle
8.S301 Special Subject: Physics
Prereq: Permission of instructor 8.S50 Special Subject: Physics
G (Spring) Prereq: None
Units arranged U (IAP)
Covers topics in Physics that are not oered in the regular Not oered regularly; consult department
curriculum. Limited enrollment; preference to Physics graduate Units arranged [P/D/F]
students. Can be repeated for credit.
A. Lightman Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise
included in the curriculum.
E. Bertschinger

30 | Department of Physics
 DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

8.S998 Special Subject: Physics

Prereq: None
U (Fall, Spring)
Not oered regularly; consult department
Units arranged [P/D/F]

Opportunity for group study of subjects in physics not otherwise

included in the curriculum.
Sta

8.THG Graduate Physics Thesis

Prereq: Permission of instructor
G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer)
Units arranged
Can be repeated for credit.

Program of research leading to the writing of an SM, PhD, or ScD

thesis; to be arranged by the student and an appropriate MIT faculty
member.
Consult I. Stewart

Department of Physics | 31