PHYS1410
Quantum Mechanics A [ Course Website ]
This course begins with a description of the experiments performed at the beginning of the 20th century that led to the development of quantum mechanics. The postulates and the formal structure of quantum mechanics are then introduced. In the last part of the course quantum methods are used to solve a number of problems in diverse systems such as nuclei, atoms, molecules and solids.
Outline of Syllabus:
- Historical Review: Black body radiation; Planck's law; Photoelectric effect; Compton effect; Atomic spectra; Franck-Hertz effect; Bohr theory; De Broglie; Electron diffraction.
- Postulates of Quantum Mechanics and Schrodinger's equation .
- More general formulation of Quamtum Mechanics, Hilbert Space and operators .
- Theory of Observations: Eigenvalues and eigenfunctions. Stationary states; Uncertainty principle; Compatible observables.
- Solution of SE in 1D: Reflection at a step; Reflection at a barrier and tunneling; Stationary states; Bound and unbound states
- Application to nuclei, atoms, molecules and solids
Textbook: Introductory Quantum Mechanics, by D. Griffith
Textbook:Principles of Quantum Mechanics, by R. Shankar
