Quantum Mechanics I (PHYS*3230)

Code and section: PHYS*3230*01

Term: Fall 2009

Instructor: Vladimir Ladizhansky

Details

Course Information

Instruction

Lecturer Office Extension Email
Vladimir Ladizhansky MacN 324 53989 vladimir@physics.uoguelph.ca

Office hours

Thu. 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm. However, you can always stop by my office and ask questions if I am available.

Lectures

Day Time Location
Mon., Wed., Fri. 9:30 a.m.-10:20 a.m. CRSC 117

Course Materials

Course Text: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, by D.J. Griffiths (Prentice Hall, 2nd edition, 2005);
Essential Mathematical Methods for Physicists, by H.J. Weber and G.B. Arfken (Elsevier Academic Press, 2004)

Evaluation

You are required to attend lectures.

Assessment Weight
Assignments 30%
Midterm 1 20%
Midterm 2 20%
Quizzes 10%
Final Exam 20%

Course Topics

  1. Review of mathematical tools required for the course. Wave function, Schrodinger equation. Statistical interpretation of the wave function.
  2. One-dimensional quantum mechanics: Free particle and a wave packet, Finite and infinite potential wells, bound states and quantization; scattering states; Potential barrier tunneling, reflection and transmission; delta-potential.
  3. Mathematical formalism of Quantum Mechanics, Observables and Hermitian operators; eigenvalue- eigenfunction problem. Operators of position and momentum, and the uncertainty principle. Momentum representation. Dirac notations.
  4. One-dimensional quantum mechanics, continued: Kronig-Penney potential and energy band structure of solids. The harmonic oscillator. Ladder operators. Coherent states.
  5. Three-dimensional quantum mechanics: Coulomb potential and hydrogen atom; Angular momentum. If time allows: Symmetries and Conservation Laws in QM. Spin, identical particles. Exchange Interactions.

Course Policies

Medical Certificate

Not generally required. However, if you miss TEST or EXAM, you should see your College Counselor and get a note from him/her.

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