Learning Outcomes
On completion, the students should be able to:
1. explain the origin of quantum physics and principles of quantum theory;
2. apply the mathematical tools of quantum physics;
3. explain how quantum states are described by wave functions;
4. apply operators and solve eigenvalue problems in quantum mechanics;
5. solve the Schrodinger equation and describe the properties of the simple harmonic oscillator;
6. use the algebra of angular momentum operators and solve the simple eigenvalue problems
of an angular momentum in quantum mechanics;
7. apply quantum mechanics to describe the hydrogen atom;
8. employ quantum mechanics to describe the properties of one-electron atoms; and
9. use quantum mechanics to describe the simple multi-electron systems such as helium atom
and hydrogen molecule.
Course Contents
Wave-particle duality and the uncertainty principle. Basic principles of the quantum theory. Time
dependent Schrodinger equation. Energy levels and potential wells. Reflection and transmission
of potential barriers. Operators and quantum states. Commutation relations and compatibility of
different observables. Orbital angular momentum. Particle in two dimensions. Familiar wave
phenomena and their associated wave equations. Physical interpretation of the wave function as
a probability amplitude. Energy levels and stationary states. Energy bands in periodic lattice.
Solution of Schrodinger equation for a central potential in three dimensions. The hydrogen atom.
Multi-electron atoms. The harmonic oscillator. Exchange symmetry.
