Journal Information
College Physics
Founded in 1982
Supervisor: China Association for Science and Technology (CAST)
Sponsor: China Physical Society
Bimonthly
Tel: 010-58808024
E-mail: cop@bnu.edu.cn
CN 11-1910/O4
ISSN 1000-0712
Current Issue
10 October 2026, Volume 45 Issue 08
  • Ludwig Boltzmann: The First Man Who Quantized Energy
    CAO Zexian
    2026, 45(08):  1.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.260617
    Abstract ( 36 )   PDF (1046KB) ( 47 )  
    Ludwig Boltzmann is a towering figure in the history of physics,widely known as the founder of statistical mechanics. The name Boltzmann is commonly associated with the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution, the Boltzmann entropy formula, and the Boltzmann H-function, while Planck was said to be the one who first introduced the concept of energy quantum in 1900. In fact, the word “quantum” appears frequently in the papers of Boltzmann and Wien well before 1900. To the best of the authors knowledge, Boltzmann was the first to introduce the concept of energy quantization. In 1868, he quantized kinetic energy (vis viva) to address the problem of molecular collisions, thereby deriving the Boltzmann principle of statistical mechanics. In 1872, Boltzmann derived the Maxwell distribution by employing the concept of energy quantization, and in 1877, he noted that the quantized energy must be counted from zero. Boltzmanns ideas and research methods profoundly influenced the subsequent development of physics; the brilliance of his thought is evidenced in the work of physicists such as Planck, Sommerfeld, Einstein, and Born over quantum theory..

    Macroscopic quantum effects: Are quantum phenomena microscopic?
    Ao Ping
    2026, 45(08):  8.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.260116
    Abstract ( 28 )   PDF (608KB) ( 30 )  
    Some small thoughts of a participator on 2025 Nobel prize on macroscopic quantum phenomena of a paradigm shift: the difficult thinking process on theoretical side and the courageous effort of experimentalists. Together they demonstrated the wider validity range quantum mechanics. It is also a good example showing the power of the small research group consisting of student, postdoc and professor, as well as of international collaborations in moving science ahead.

    Design and implementation of an interactive Poincaré sphere polarization  optics teaching system for university physics teaching
    ZHOU Hongqiang, MU Cunqi, WANG Yuhan, MAN Tian...
    2026, 45(08):  10.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250730
    Abstract ( 25 )   PDF (2336KB) ( 27 )  
    "Optics" is one of the core courses for applied physics majors. Its syllabus explicitly requires students to master the basic phenomena, principles, and laws of polarized light. However, the abstract mathematical description of polarization states poses challenges to teaching and understanding. This paper develops a Pythonbased Poincaré sphere polarization state visualization and analysis system. Through interactive 3D visualization technology, it converts theoretical models such as Jones vectors and Stokes parameters into dynamic, manipulable geometric representations. The system supports singlepoint polarization state mapping, double polarization state coherent superposition calculation, realtime parameter analysis, and interactive 3D display, effectively enhancing the pedagogical intuitiveness and analytical efficiency of polarization optics. This system not only provides a visualization tool system for theoretical teaching but also offers a practical simulation platform for the research and engineering applications of polarization optics.


    Defect sink strength calculation based on Monte Carlo method
    NIU Yu-ze, LI Yu-hao, ZHOU Hong-bo, LU Guang-hong
    2026, 45(08):  16. 
    Abstract ( 36 )  
    The migration of point defects under irradiation is a typical stochastic process. This paper systematically investigates the sink strength of point defects absorbed by voids and grain boundaries based on classical diffusion theory and the Object Kinetic Monte Carlo (OKMC) method. By integrating theoretical derivation with numerical simulation, the study facilitates a deeper understanding of concepts such as stochastic process, statistical error, and the Monte Carlo method. It also broadens the perspective on applying computational physics to complex physical system modeling, and contributes to the development of students skills in comprehensive analysis and computational practice.

    Introducinghardspin meanfield theory into statistical physics teaching: From the pure Ising model to sitediluted systems
    HOU Jixuan
    2026, 45(08):  21.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250613
    Abstract ( 27 )   PDF (697KB) ( 24 )  
    To address the common pedagogical dilemma in undergraduate statistical physics where conventional meanfield theory erroneously predicts a finitetemperature phase transition for the onedimensional Ising model, this article proposes the introduction of the more accurate hardspin meanfield theory (HSMFT) into the curriculum. The paper elaborates on the theoretical framework of HSMFT, which retains the discrete nature of spins and establishes selfconsistent equations by statistically averaging over all possible microconfigurations of the neighbors. Using the twodimensional Ising model as a detailed example, we stepbystep demonstrate the derivation process and briefly present results for one and three dimensions, confirming the dual superiority of HSMFT in both qualitative correctness and quantitative accuracy. As an advanced application, we extend HSMFT to the sitediluted Ising model. By introducing a double averaging over the number of active neighbors, we obtain the phase diagram and discuss the magnetic critical concentration, thereby illustrating the theory's capability in handling disordered systems and its pedagogical value. This approach provides students with a coherent and profound theoretical picture spanning from pure to disordered systems.


    The upper mass limit of pendant drops—Discussing the oversights in international research on pendant drops
    YU Fengjun1, TANG Zhenjie1, JU Lin1, ZHANG Xiwe...
    2026, 45(08):  28.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250296
    Abstract ( 24 )   PDF (1232KB) ( 20 )  
    The calculation of droplet shape has always been based on the Laplace equation of the liquid surface, which involves knowledge of differential geometry and is difficult for younger college students to understand. This article proposes an easy to understand method to derive the shape equations of droplets on ceilings through the isolated object method, and numerically solve their shapes; A longstanding error in international research has been discovered when determining the upper limit of the volume of suspended droplets. The current necessary conditions for the stability of pendent drop are supplemented, applying the new necessary conditions to determine the upper limit of the volume of pendent drop when the contact angle is constant, and a volume upper limit fitting formula with an accuracy of up to 10-4 is provided.

    Why are forbidden lines so bright in active galactic nuclei?
    LIU Run-ze, WANG Shuang
    2026, 45(08):  34.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250513
    Abstract ( 29 )   PDF (736KB) ( 22 )  
    Forbidden lines are almost invisible in laboratory spectra but are ubiquitous in active galactic nuclei (AGN), especially in the narrow-line region (NLR), where they appear exceptionally bright and can even surpass the permitted hydrogen lines in intensity. This phenomenon has long been a central issue in astrophysical research. In this paper, we analyze how transitions forbidden by the electric dipole selection rules can proceed via higher-order channels such as magnetic dipole and electric quadrupole radiation, based on the multipole radiation theory of atomic physics. By combining estimates of typical spontaneous emission lifetimes, collisional timescales, and critical densities, we explain why forbidden lines can be efficiently excited and radiated in the low-density, highly ionized environment of the NLR. Through a discussion of representative forbidden lines in composite AGN spectra, we further demonstrate their unique role in probing the gas conditions and ionization structure of AGN, thereby providing a physical basis for future diagnostic studies based on emission lines.


    Notes on one-dimensional diffusion in a semi-infinite solid
    LI Fu-min1, YANG Jun2, 3
    2026, 45(08):  40.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250459
    Abstract ( 24 )   PDF (787KB) ( 18 )  
    One-dimensional semi-infinite solid diffusion serves as a key theoretical basis for engineering processes such as material surface strengthening (e.g., carburizing/nitriding) and semiconductor doping. Its analytical solution based on Ficks Second Law is crucial for grasping diffusion laws. However, there exist teaching pain points in the treatment of this analytical solution in current basic materials science textbooks: the solution is generally derived from the one-dimensional infinite diffusion couple model (by welding two metal rods of equal diameter into a diffusion couple under pressure, solving Ficks second law, and then regarding semi-infinite diffusion as a special case). This approach, nevertheless, tends to cause confusion among students. Specifically, for scenarios where the surface concentration is zero, such as vacuum degassing and surface decarburization of solid plates, tracing back to the infinite model requires assuming a "negative concentration" metal rod, whose physical meaning is difficult to explain and instead increases the complexity of teaching. This paper conducts research to address this issue: first, it clarifies the irrationality of deriving the semi-infinite diffusion formula from the infinite diffusion couple and the root cause of students confusion; subsequently, it proposes a direct derivation approachby combining the initial and boundary conditions of one-dimensional semi-infinite diffusion, solving Ficks Second Law through the Boltzmann variable substitution method, and obtaining an unambiguous concentration distribution formula. Meanwhile, taking carburizing as an example, it introduces the concise solution process of the Laplace transform method to verify the consistency of the results. In addition, this paper answers students questions regarding the concavity and convexity of diffusion curves, pointing out that the concavity and convexity of the curve are determined by the sign of 2C/x2 (the curve is concave downward when the concentration increases and convex upward when the concentration decreases). This is consistent with the inherent nature of diffusion tending to achieve uniform concentration and cannot be altered. This research helps students gain an in-depth understanding of the physical connotation of semi-infinite diffusion and provides support for mastering the core knowledge of the diffusion chapter.




    Application of multi-valued function integrals in solving quantum  physics problems
    GU Wen-ju1, YI Zhen1, LI Gao-xiang2
    2026, 45(08):  45.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.240479
    Abstract ( 19 )   PDF (824KB) ( 22 )  
    This article addresses two examples in quantum physics related to atomic dissipation behavior in structured environments, by utilizing the method of multi-valued function integrals.Both single branch cut and double branch cuts are considered.By appropriately choosing branch cuts and Riemann surfaces, specific procedures for calculating multi-valued function integrals are outlined.This approach can be extended to related areas of research and is expected to contribute significantly to the exploration of quantum phenomena.


    Study on the equivalent impedance of n-rectangular#br# network under diagonal feedback
    TAN Zhen
    2026, 45(08):  49. 
    Abstract ( 15 )   PDF (656KB) ( 19 )  
    The circuit network with feedback has always been a difficult problem in scientific research. This article considers a class of n-order rectangular circuit network models (CNM) with diagonal feedback, derives a new equivalent impedance analytical formula, and solves a complex circuit network problem. The research methods used include establishing differential equations for branch currents and establishing constraint equations. The key to solving problems is to use rigorous mathematical calculations to solve the general and specific solutions of recursive equations. The acquisition of specific solutions mainly depends on the constraint equation. At the end of the article, several special conclusions and infinite networks are analyzed and studied, and the correctness of the obtained conclusions are verified. This research result can enrich the content of circuit textbooks and provide reference for scientific exploration and research of science and engineering students.



    Multiple phase transitions in a one-dimensional unidirectional transmission  topolectrical circuit
    GONG Weijiang1, LI Jiarui1, JIANG Cui2, LI Bo1, ...
    2026, 45(08):  53.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250620
    Abstract ( 27 )   PDF (964KB) ( 19 )  
    To address the challenge that concepts in topological and non-Hermitian physics are abstract and difficult to visualize in teaching, this paper employs a one-dimensional unidirectional transmission topolectrical circuit as a teaching vehicle. Combined with the unidirectional Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model, we explore its potential applications and practical implementation pathways in physics education. The results reveal that this circuit can achieve a tunable skin effect by adjusting capacitances without altering the topological phase. Consequently, by controlling relevant circuit components, both the skin effect phase transition and the topological phase transition can be observed separately. In summary, this one-dimensional unidirectional transmission topolectrical circuit provides a feasible solution for teaching and researching topics related to quantum topology and non-Hermitian physics.

    Measurement of gravitational acceleration using the inclined plane method:  track levelness quantification and measurement errors correction
    ZHANG Hongyu, GAN Jingyu, ZHU Yunxia, L Zhaoy...
    2026, 45(08):  59.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250326
    Abstract ( 16 )  
    The inclined plane method is a commonly used approach for measuring gravitational acceleration, and the initial horizontal state of the track significantly affects measurement errors. This paper introduces two acceleration conversion coefficients to intuitively quantify the initial horizontal state of the track. When the coefficients are 0.5, the track is in a strictly horizontal state. The greater the deviation from 0.5, the larger the horizontal deviation of the track. The study reveals that the greater the deviation of the track from perfect horizontality, the larger the measurement error of gravitational acceleration. To address this systematic error, a correction scheme based on conversion coefficients was proposed. The experimental results under different horizontal states and inclined plane angles demonstrate that this strategy exhibits good reliability and universality. Under various measurement conditions, it can effectively reduce the measurement errors of gravitational acceleration. This research provides new insights and an effective solution for improving the accuracy of gravitational acceleration measurement using the inclined plane method.


    In-depthexploration of physics experiments through real-life and engaging practices
    SHAO Mingzhen, ZENG Xiaoqi, XU Tingting, DENG D...
    2026, 45(08):  65.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250172
    Abstract ( 12 )   PDF (703KB) ( 10 )  
    This study aims to explore an innovative design for inquirybased topics in college physics experiments, emphasizing engagement and reallife relevance. The goal is to effectively stimulate students interest in experimentation and awaken their intrinsic motivation for learning. To this end, the experimental topics are closely connected to students everyday lives, with all materials chosen being easily accessible in daily settings, thereby lowering the threshold for participation. These inquirybased projects break through the limitations of traditional laboratory settings, extending scientific exploration into students daily experiences. As a result, they deepen students understanding of physical principles and foster their scientific inquiry skills and creative thinking. 

    Practical application of the BOPPPS teaching model in the course of #br# intense charged particle beam physics—taking the z-pinch knowledge point as an example#br#
    JU Jinchuan, SONG Lili, CHENG Xinbing, QIAN Bao...
    2026, 45(08):  69.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250417
    Abstract ( 9 )   PDF (696KB) ( 8 )  
    The advanced graduate course Intense Charged Particle Beam Physics covers the physical properties, generation, and applications of intense relativistic charged particle beams. It is highly theoretical, Abstract:, and closely linked to engineering practice. To deeply activate the students, the BOPPPS teaching model is introduced and the teaching process was redesigned based on the course’s characteristics. This paper presents the teaching practice regarding the z-pinch knowledge point, suggesting that the student-centered approach inspired by BOPPPS can boost students’ interests, participation, and depth of learning, and strengthen their ability to analyze and apply knowledge.


    Research on curriculum ideology and politics education system #br# and evaluation system of physics major#br#
    WANG Yuting1, BAI Lina1, WANG Guangning1, YANG ...
    2026, 45(08):  74.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250605
    Abstract ( 10 )   PDF (1205KB) ( 11 )  
    Physics is an important support to realize the strategy goals of science and technology power and education power, occupied an indispensable position in the education system and social development. The courses related to physics major carry a lot of elements of ideological and political education such as basic viewpoints of Marxism contained in the curriculum, relevant traditional culture, physics development history, scientists and their advanced deeds, advanced science and technology, that is important hubs connecting knowledge imparting and moral education. The paper constructs the curriculum ideology and politics education system, then constructed the evaluation system based on outline designation, teaching case designation, resource construction, education implementation, assessment method and education effect by using of subjective and objective comprehensive weighting method, calculated and optimized the weights of each evaluation parameter. It is shown that the education effect is the most important. Research results provide theoretical support and methodological reference for the followup research of relevant teachers and students.



    Research on how college physics helps applied undergraduate talents promote #br# the progress of the new energy industry#br#
    REN Yang-yang1, YU Yong-qin1, SONG Feng2
    2026, 45(08):  79.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250030
    Abstract ( 9 )   PDF (1205KB) ( 6 )  
    This article matches the curriculum content guided by the development and employment in the majors of mechanical design, light source lighting, integrated circuits, materials engineering, and microelectronics. It proposes a five-step teaching reform strategy, which includes "customizing the teaching syllabus, drawing on European experience, adjusting teaching methods, promoting learning through competitions, and combining production, education and research". It aims to cultivate excellent engineering technicians with a solid foundation in physics in Guangdong, tap the advantages of scientific and technological innovation, and build a globally important talent center and scientific and technological innovation center.


    Pedagogical approaches to angular momentum in binary star systems 
    FANG Xiaohui, WANG Qishan, XU Genjian, ZHANG Qi...
    2026, 45(08):  83.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.260120
    Abstract ( 9 )   PDF (666KB) ( 5 )  
    Angular momentum conservation, a fundamental principle in classical mechanics and astrophysics arising from the rotational symmetry of space, plays a decisive role in the evolution of close binary systems. Focusing on angular momentum conservation, this paper systematically analyzes the evolutionary patterns of orbital periods in binary systems undergoing mass transfer. By constructing an idealized binary orbital model, we derive the quantitative relationship between the rate of orbital period change and both the mass ratio and the direction of mass transfer, under the assumptions of total mass conservation and the absence of external torques. The study finds that when the less massive star steadily transfers matter to its more massive companion, the orbit expands and the orbital period increases. Conversely, mass transfer in the opposite direction leads to orbital shrinkage and a period decrease; however, such a process is often accompanied by thermodynamic instabilities, making it difficult to sustain over long timescales. Our theoretical predictions are further validated by observational data from the eclipsing binary system J101330.8+494846. We also note that in realistic systems, mechanisms such as magnetic braking, gravitational radiation, or mass loss often result in angular momentum loss, leading to a continuous orbital decay. This work not only deepens the understanding of the physical implications of angular momentum conservation but also provides students with a bridge connecting fundamental physical principles to cuttingedge astrophysical research, offering significant pedagogical and heuristic value for scientific initiation.

    Some thoughts on ideological and political education in college curriculum based on college physics experiment#br#
    SHI Xinwei1, LI Xingrui2, LIAN Hong1, PAN Zhife...
    2026, 45(08):  86.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.240470
    Abstract ( 11 )   PDF (1196KB) ( 5 )  
    The fundamental issue of education is what kind of people to cultivate, how to cultivate them, and for whom to cultivate them. Conducting ideological and political education in courses is a task that every course must constantly focus on. Based on the case of ideological and political education in College Physics Experiment and the author's experience in teaching physics experiments and ideological and political education in recent years, this paper discusses the necessity, method and quality of carrying out ideological and political education in the curriculum from four aspects: “duty” and “responsibility”, “time” and “efficiency”, “method” and “Dao”, “number” and “quality”. It concludes that teachers need to shoulder the mission of ideological and political education in the curriculum, stick to their responsibilities, constantly grasp, educate people before themselves, pay attention to quality, and achieve the effect of “great music has the faintest notes, great form is beyond shape” in order to achieve the ideological and political education in the curriculum.

    Research on a gravity acceleration measurement system based on the visual persistence effect
    JIN Ruixue, CHANG Luqing, WANG Hailun, LIANG Ha...
    2026, 45(08):  90.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250291
    Abstract ( 17 )   PDF (1133KB) ( 7 )  
    The study utilized the visual persistence effect in combination with digital analysis technology to design a new type of gravity acceleration measurement system. The system precisely controls the flashing frequency and duty cycle of the lighting system using a signal generator, and is combined with a peristaltic pump device with a stable water discharge rate to achieve visual imaging of the trajectory of suspended water droplets. It also processes the experimental data using the least squares method and Tracker software, with a relative error of gravity acceleration measurement of 0.36%. The device has a simple structure, is easy to operate, presents intuitive phenomena that are easy to observe, and has a lively and interesting process. It can clearly show the process of free fall motion and is suitable for promotion in innovative middle school physics teaching, interactive demonstrations in science museums, and other application scenarios.

    Design of an enhanced lowfrequency receiving #br# antenna based on magnetic coupling#br#
    ZHANG Tingkai, WU Shiying, ZHANG Chenxi, SU You...
    2026, 45(08):  95.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250501
    Abstract ( 11 )   PDF (886KB) ( 6 )  
    Lowfrequency antennas have the advantage of low loss in extreme environment communication, but their traditional designs have the problem of limited effective transmission distance. The magnetic coupling receiving antenna utilizes the nearfield coupling mechanism, which can effectively enhance the reception efficiency of lowfrequency signals and has excellent lowfrequency reception characteristics. Focusing on the signal amplification mechanism of the magnetic coupling receiving antenna, the influence laws of its key parameters on the reception amplification performance were deeply analyzed, while considering impedance matching, aiming to optimize the design to achieve the best reception effect. The amplification gain coefficient was introduced as an evaluation index, and systematic modeling simulation and experimental tests were conducted on the designed magnetic coupling receiving antenna. Further underwater transmission experiments were carried out to explore its reception amplification performance in typical application environments. The results show that the optimized magnetic coupling receiving antenna can significantly improve the reception efficiency of lowfrequency signals under different environmental conditions. This technology shows broad application prospects in fields such as underground rescue and underwater communication, where there is an urgent need for lowfrequency signals.


    Research on methods for developing portable and interactive computational #br# physics programs based on AI-enabled programming skills#br#
    LIN Hui, QIUHuaili, YU Tongpo, Wei Zewen, Liu H...
    2026, 45(08):  102.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250493
    Abstract ( 12 )   PDF (941KB) ( 4 )  
    The implementation of algorithmic code is a key link in translating the theories of the “Computational Physics” course into practice. However, due to the evolution of programming languages over time, there is a problem of poor interoperability among the codes in various textbooks. This work, based on Tencent Yuanbao large model equipped with the DeepSeek kernel, demonstrates the adaptation of numerical algorithm codes for two typical physical problems (Thomson problem, temperature field of nuclear waste rods) into portable JavaScript. The adapted programs do not require compilation and can be directly operated and run with an interface in the browser, which facilitates classroom demonstrations and enhances the learning experience of physics majors. The research summarizes the application approaches of AI intelligent programming in the adaptation of computational physics codes: it is necessary to describe program requirements clearly and focusedly to guide the model to respond accurately; separate the source code with quotation marks, and use “context” prompts to enhance the models understanding; promote code optimization through effective “continuous dialogue”. The research results can provide reference for peers and promote the deep integration of AI intelligent large models into physics course teaching.

    design capabilities in micronano optical devices
    CHAI Zhen1, 2, LIU Jingshuang1, 2, LI Qingyuan1,...
    2026, 45(08):  108.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250568
    Abstract ( 10 )   PDF (1007KB) ( 6 )  
    In the field of quantum sensing, the design of micronano optical devices in graduate education is often hindered by interdisciplinary barriers and difficulties in bridging theory and practice. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an AIenabled, projectdriven training model that integrates “designsimulationoptimization” in a closed loop. The model orients students toward real research problems and guides them in applying AI algorithms to the design and optimization of micronano optical devices. A case study on deep learningbased phase modulation metasurface lens design illustrates how students progressively employ deep learning for device design and optimization. Results show that this approach enhances interdisciplinary competence, systems thinking, and research efficiency, thereby offering a pathway for cultivating highlevel talent in quantum technologies in the era of digital intelligence.


    A study on the application of generative AI in college physics teaching
    WU Liyi, LIU Yubai, GAO Ruyi, QI Xiaosi, ZHAO ...
    2026, 45(08):  115.  doi:10.16854/j.cnki.1000-0712.250627
    Abstract ( 29 )   PDF (943KB) ( 10 )  
    To address the challenges of abstraction and conceptual comprehension in college physics teaching, this study proposes a generative AIbased instructional program design method. Using the diffraction grating spectral with monochromatic light visualization as a case study, a webbased adjustable visualization platform was developed through a "teacherAIstudent" collaborative system. The research adopts an iterative process involving AIassisted code generation, teacher verification, and interface optimization to achieve lowcode development of teaching demonstrations. Teaching practice with 48 valid questionnaires showed that 91.7% of students agreed that the tool helped them understand abstract concepts, 95.8% reported enhanced learning interest, and 93.8% were willing to continue using it after class. The findings indicate that the AI system, functioning as an intelligent scaffold, effectively reduces cognitive load and facilitates the cognitive transition from phenomenological understanding to abstract reasoning, providing new pathways for physics teaching reform.