PHYS 402T Applications of Quantum Mechanics (Not offered 1997-98; to be offered 1998-99)

Each week a research or review article from the physics literature will be assigned. This article will motivate an investigation of a topic in quantum theory, such as perturbation theory or the semiclassical picture of the interaction of atoms with radiation, for which the student will be given references to standard texts. Topics will be chosen mostly from atomic physics with some discussion of precision measurements and fundamental symmetries.
The class as a whole will meet once a week for 50 minutes to discuss questions on the reading. Each student will also be assigned to a tutorial meeting with the instructor and one or two other students at which the students will take turns presenting solutions to assigned problems. Written solutions to selected problems will be due a few days later.
Evaluation will be based on tutorial participation, written problem set solutions and a final exam.
Prerequisite: Physics 301.

JONES