Quantum Mechanics (339-1-1)

Instructors

Gerald Gabrielse

Meeting Info

Kresge Cent. Hall 2-380 Kaplan: Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

This is the first of a two-quarter course on quantum theory. We will discuss both the meaning of the theory and how to use it to calculate experimentally observable quantities for simple systems involving atoms, spins, light polarization, and tunneling.

Registration Requirements

Prerequisites: second-year standing in ISP or PHYS 330-1, MATH 240/PHYS 311-1. Strong ability to do practical calculations with calculus and familiarity with complex numbers.

Learning Objectives

Understand and apply the concepts related to the quantum mechanical amplitude, quantum states, superposition of quantum states, observables and operators, quantum measurement, unitary time evolution, transition amplitudes and probabilities, and symmetry and conservation laws.

Teaching Method

Lectures and discussion section

Evaluation Method

Homework, participation, midterm, and final exam.

Class Materials (Required)

John S. Townsend, A Modern Approach to Quantum Mechanics (Second Edition)

Associated Classes

DIS - Locy Hall 111: Thurs 10:00AM - 10:50AM