Welcome to the PHYS 5300 Modern Quantum Physics :: Spring 2014
[PHYS 5300] Modern Quantum Physics
Schrödinger equation, probability, one-dimensional problems, (free particle, simple potentials, harmonic oscillator), mathematical formalism, three-dimensional problems (hydrogen atom, angular momentum, spin, addition of angular momentum), two-level systems, perturbation theory.
Course Syllabus::
Syllabus
Instructor:
- Dr. Beth Thacker
Class Schedule:
- TR 2:00 pm - 3:20 pm @ SC 118
Course Texts:
We will draw on a number of texts. We will start at the level ofQuantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei, and Particles , Robert Eisberg and Robert Resnick, Wiley; 2nd edition (January 1985), ISBN-10: 047187373X, ISBN-13: 978-0471873730.
andIntroduction to Quantum Mechanics, David J. Griffiths, Pearson Prentice Hall, 2nd edition (April 2004), ISBN-10: 0131118927, ISBN-13: 978-0131118928.
Then move to the level ofIntroduction to the Quantum Theory, David Park, Dover Publications; 3rd edition (November, 2012).
Elementary Quantum Mechanics, David S. Saxon, Dover Publications, (June 2013).
Principles of Quantum Mechanics, R. Shankar, Springer 2nd edition, (September 1994).
The Nature of the Course:
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The course will be taught interactively. You will be asked to read ahead and be prepared to present or discuss the reading in class. We will focus both on conceptual and quantitative aspects of the material. You will work on problem-solving during class and be required to explain your reasoning, as well as to solve computational problems. We will try to understand quantum mechanics and interpret the results, as well as be able to solve problems. When solving problems, the process by which you solve a problem will be more important than the final answer and you will be graded on your problem-solving process on homework, quizzes and exams.
Expected Learning Outcomes:
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Students should be able to demonstrate their understanding of the material covered by their ability to solve problems and answer questions on the content covered. They should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the development, use and predictive power of quantum mechanics that is consistent with experimental evidence.
Methods of Assessing Expected Learning Outcomes:
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Learning outcomes will be assessed through quiz, homework and exam problems that require students to show their calculation and explain their reasoning and in-class discussions with their peers.