Quantum Mechanics
615.454

Course Description
This is a course in advanced modern physics that presents the basic concepts and mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics and introduces applications in atomic, molecular, and solid state physics. Topics include the mathematics of quantum mechanics, one-dimensional problems, central field problems, the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with atomic systems, the harmonic oscillator, angular momentum, and perturbation theory.

This course is offered in the fall and spring semesters.

Syllabus

1. Introduction and postulates of quantum mechanics
2. Schrodinger wave equation
3. One-dimensional potentials
4. General structure of quantum mechanics
5. Harmonic oscillator and operator methods
6. Multi-particle systems
7. Angular momentum
8. Hydrogen atom
9. Interactions with electromagnetic fields
10. Operators, matrices, and spin
11. Steady-state perturbation theory
12. Structure of atoms and the periodic table
13. Emission of light and time-dependent perturbation theory
14. Current research topics - quantum computing and cryptography

Prerequisites
615.441 Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering or the equivalent.

Instructor
James Franson is a member of the Research and Technology Development Center at APL. He holds a B.S. degree in physics from Purdue University and a Ph.D in physics from the California Institute of Technology. Dr. Franson's areas of research include quantum optics and the foundations of quantum mechanics.
E-mail the instructor.

Course Section, Location, and Time

Computer Lab Requirements
None

Textbook
Quantum Physics by Steven Gasiorowicz

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Applied Physics

December 1997