Introduction to quantum physics

Basic mathematical methods, especially linear algebra, matrices, and some familiarity with second-order ordinary differential equations.

High-school or early university-level physics, including (from classical mechanics) simple harmonic oscillators and the concept of conservation of energy.

It would be useful to have seen some quantum ideas, such as the uncertainty principle, the Bohr model of the atom and the idea of discrete spectral lines, before.

In addition (as outlined under the course prerequisites) this should not be the first physics course you take; it will help you a lot if you have already taken one or more of the basic courses.

After this course you will be able to explain why quantum mechanics is needed and know the theoretical basics of quantum mechanics.

You will be able to analyse a two-state quantum system and form the tensor product of multiple two-state systems. You will know the general features of time evolution in quantum mechanics and recognise the relevant equations.

You will be able to carry out calculations with both Dirac notation and wave mechanics. In particular, you will be able to solve simple problems in wave mechanics in one dimension.

Finally, you will be able to recognise solutions to systems with a central potential such as the hydrogen atom. You will be able to apply the probability interpretation to the wavefunctions which describe the electron of a hydrogen atom, and you will be familar with the concept of an orbital.

Lecture notes supplied by the lecturer.

Additional literature, e.g.:

• McIntyre, Manogue and Tate, Quantum Mechanics: A Paradigms Approach (Pearson)
• Harris, Modern Physics (Pearson)

Completion methods

A mixture of group participation, exercises and student self-assessment will be used to assess the course. There is no final exam. Alternatively the course can be completed by an examination.

Assessment practices and criteria

Grading scale is 0 (failed) - 1 (passed) - 5 (excellent)

Submitted exercises, group participation and other course activities will be taken into account as explained at the beginning of the course.

Activities and methods in support of learning

Weekly lectures, independent work by the student, weekly exercise sessions, which are partly done in calculation workshops in small groups, and partly independently.

The exercise sessions are returned to the assistant, who scores them. The total workload for the course is 135 hours.

Target groups

Programme: Bachelor's programme in Science.

Course is optional within the programme, but compulsory within the Physics study track.

The course is available to the students of other programmes upon agreement with the teacher.

Teaching period when the course will be offered

Course is offered every year in period 2.

Recommended time or stage of studies for completion

Course is recommended for second year students of the Bachelor's programme in Science in the Physics study track.

Study module

Intermediate studies in physics

Language of instruction

English