PHYS 301(F) Quantum Physics (Q)
This course serves as a one-semester introduction to the history, formalism, and
phenomenology of quantum mechanics. We begin with a discussion of the historical origins of the quantum theory, and the Schroedinger wave equation. The
concepts of matter waves and wave-packets are introduced. Solutions to one-dimensional problems will be treated prior to introducing the system which serves
as a hallmark of the success of quantum theory, the three-dimensional hydrogen
atom. In the second half of the course, we will develop the important connection
between the underlying mathematical formalism and the physical predictions of
the quantum theory. We then go on to apply this knowledge to several important
problems within the realm of atomic and nuclear physics.
Format: lecture, three hours per week; laboratory, three hours per week. Evaluation will be based on weekly problem sets, labs, a midterm exam, and final
exam, all of which have a substantial quantitative component.
Prerequisites: Physics 202 and Physics 210. No enrollment limit (expected:15).