Research includes plasma theory, computational mathematics, fusion energy, and quantum information. Expertise in kinetic theory and simulation of plasma turbulence in fusion energy sciences. Development of advanced numerical methods for solving kinetic theory, including new methods for gyrokinetic simulation. Parker's research group is well-funded through the U.S. Department of Energy and includes research staff, postdoctoral scholars, graduate and undergraduate students. The group utilizes the fastest supercomputers in the world for their simulation research. Recently, research has been focused on better understanding of tokamak edge transport and connections of plasma theory with quantum information science.
ASTR 5150 - Introductory Plasma Physics
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2024
Includes basic phenomena of ionized gases, static and dynamic shielding, linear waves, instabilities, particles in fields, collisional phenomena, fluid equations, collisionless Boltzman equations, Landau damping, scattering and absorption of radiation in plasmas, elementary nonlinear processes, WKB wave theory, controlled thermonuclear fusion concepts, astrophysical applications and experimental plasma physics (laboratory). Same as PHYS 5150.
PHYS 1240 - Sound and Music
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2018 / Spring 2019 / Fall 2022
Explores the physical processes that underlie the diversity of sound and musical phenomena. Topics covered include the physical nature of sound, the perception of sound, the perception of pitch and harmony, musical instruments, synthesizers and samplers, and room acoustics. Geared toward nonscience majors. Department enforced prereq., high school algebra or equivalent. Should not be taken by students with a math MAPS deficiency.
PHYS 2600 - Introduction to Programming and Scientific Computing
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2019 / Spring 2021 / Fall 2021 / Spring 2022 / Fall 2024
Covers basic concepts in programming and scientific computing, including numerical integration and simulation of physical systems. Students will learn the programming language Python and associated graphics libraries. Programming examples will be drawn from classical physical systems that can only be solved numerically, such as projectile motion with drag and N-body problems. Degree credit not granted for this course and ASTR 2600.
PHYS 4410 - Quantum Mechanics 2
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018 / Spring 2020
Extends quantum mechanics to include perturbation theory and its applications to atomic fine structure, multi-particle systems, interactions with external forces, the periodic table and dynamical processes including electromagnetic transition rates.
PHYS 5150 - Introductory Plasma Physics
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2024
Includes basic phenomena of ionized gases, static and dynamic shielding, linear waves, instabilities, particles in fields, collisional phenomena, fluid equations, collisionless Boltzman equations, Landau damping, scattering and absorption of radiation in plasmas, elementary nonlinear processes, WKB wave theory, controlled thermonuclear fusion concepts, astrophysical applications and experimental plasma physics (laboratory). Department enforced prerequisite: PHYS 3310. Instructor consent required for undergraduates. Same as ASTR 5150.
PHYS 7810 - Special Topics in Physics
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2019
Various topics not normally covered in the curriculum; offered intermittently depending on student demand and availability of instructors. May be repeated up to 7 total credit hours.
