MAMO2100 Quantum mechanics Course description

The course provides an introduction to quantum mechanics. Both theoretical, mathematical, and numerical aspects of quantum mechanics are highlighted. This will mainly be done by studying simple models for quantum physical systems - using both numerical and analytical methods. Although quantum physics underpins sub-disciplines such as quantum chemistry, atomic physics, solid-state physics, nuclear physics, and particle physics, we will to a small extent delve into the peculiarities of these fields. The focus will primarily be on general quantum theory and the mathematical formulation.

The course builds on

• DAFE1000 - Mathematics 1000
• DAPE2000 - Mathematics 2000
• DAVE3700 - Mathematics 3000
• DAVE3705 - Mathematics 4000
• DAPE1400 - Programmering

None

After completing this course, the student has the following learning outcomes, defined in knowledge, skills, and general competence.

Knowledge

The student should:

• be able to explain phenomena such as quantization, superposition, the uncertainty principle, and spin for quantum particles.
• be able to explain the mathematical formulation of quantum mechanics, such as inner product, Hilbert space, normalization, operators and eigenvalues, commutators, and expectation values.
• be familiar with simple quantum mechanical systems such as particle in a box, finite potential well, harmonic oscillator, simple finite-dimensional systems like spin systems, simpler examples of three-dimensional systems like the hydrogen atom.

Skills

The student should:

• be able to find analytical solutions, and to some extent numerical, of both the time-dependent and time-independent Schrödinger equation for certain simple quantum systems.
• be able to apply mathematics to formulate and solve problems related to quantum mechanics.

General competence

The student should:

• be able to explain insights from quantum mechanics about the physical world and how these differ from both intuition and classical physics and mechanics.
• be able to discuss the mathematical formulation of quantum mechanics.

The teaching will consist of both lectures and exercises. All teaching requires that students participate and actively contribute in discussions and problem-solving.

To solve problems and assignments, students will need to use both analytical and numerical techniques. The latter will require the use of tools such as Python or MATLAB/Octave.

None.

Individual written exam of 3 hours under supervision. The exam result can be appealed.

In the event of resit or rescheduled exams, another exam form may also be used. If oral exams are used, the result cannot be appealed.

All written and printed aids are allowed. Handheld calculator that cannot be used for wireless communication or to perform symbolic calculations. If the calculator has the capability for internal memory storage, the memory must be cleared before the exam. Random checks may be carried out.

Grade scale A-F

One internal examiner. External examiners are used regularly.