Prospectus

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Quantum Mechanics 1

Course
2019-2020

Admission requirements

Analysis 1, 2, Linear Algebra 1, Classical Mechanics a and b. Linear Algebra 2 needs to be followed in parallel, unless the contents of this course is already known.

Description

The course offers an introduction into quantum mechanics. It starts with the Schrödinger equation, and describes the wave function with its statistical interpretation. Subsequently, a few examples of quantisation are illustrated as solutions of the one-dimensional time-independent Schrödinger equation. A more formal treatment follows with the introduction of Hilbert space and the formulation of quantum mechanics in terms of linear algebra. The final objective is quantum description of the hydrogen atom, which requires a discussion of spherically symmetric three-dimensional systems, orbital angular momentum and spin angular momentum.

Concepts that will be presented include: the Schrödinger equation, Heisenberg’s uncertainty relation, the wave function and its statistical interpretation, stationary states, the wave packet, Hilbert space, tunnelling, a particle in an infinite square well, the harmonic oscillator and the free particle, operators, ladder operators, the Dirac notation, eigenvalue equations, angular momentum and spin, and the quantum description of the hydrogen atom. .

Course objectives

Quantum mechanics is strange and counter-intuitive, yet it is extremely accurate and successful in describing the outcomes of experiments. True knowledge and understanding of quantum mechanics require study of many simple example systems and training in the use of the mathematical tools.
In this course the students acquire the ability to independently solve simple problems in quantum mechanics, and therewith builds intuition and understanding of the quantum world.

Timetable

Schedule

Mode of instruction

Lectures and Exercise Classes

Assessment method

Written examination with open questions.
There is one opportunity to re-take the exam.

Blackboard

The course uses Blackboard.
Before each lecture the material to be presented will be indicated. Before each Exercise Class the assignments will be presented in Blackboard. The answers to the assignments will be shown well before the examination. Blackboard also shows a list of examinations and answers to these of former years.
Access to Blackboard requires a ULCN-account. Blackboard UL

Reading list

Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, third edition,D.J. Griffiths and D.F. Schroeter,Cambridge University Press,ISBN 978-1-107-18963-8

Contact

Contact details of the lecturer: Prof.dr. Jan van Ruitenbeek)