Quantum Mechanics (339-2-1)

Instructors

Gerald Gabrielse

Meeting Info

Technological Institute M128: Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

This is the second of a two-quarter introduction to nonrelativistic quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanics will be used to describe simple bound systems like the harmonic oscillator and the hydrogenic atom/ion. Approximation methods will be introduced and applied to treat external electric and magnetic fields, and relativistic corrections. Other likely topics are the addition of angular momenta, identical particles, and a brief introduction to molecules.

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 - Technological Institute L221: Thurs 10:00AM - 10:50AM