FY521: Introductory quantum mechanics I (5 ECTS)

STADS: 07003801

Level
Bachelor course

Teaching period
The course is offered in the autumn semester.

Teacher responsible
Email: mlomholt@sdu.dk

Additional teachers
ilia@sdu.dk

Timetable
Show entire timetable
Show personal time table for this course.

Prerequisites:
None.

Academic preconditions:
Knowledge of Calculus, linear algebra and general physics is expected.

Course introduction
The aim of the course is to give the students a basic understanding of the quantum mechanical wave mechanics and its application to different physical phenomena supplemented by an introductory training in the mathematical formalism and problem solving.

The course gives an academic basis for further studies in quantum physics, as well as studies among others the topics particle phycis and solid state physics, that are placed later in the education.

In relation to the competence profile of the degree it is the explicit focus of the course to:

• give skills to apply physical principles and mathematical tools to formulate and solve physical models
• give knowledge and understanding of quantum mechanics
• give ability to acquire new knowledge in an effective and autonomous way and apply this knowledge reflectively
• give understanding of how scientific knowledge is obtained by an interplay between theory and experiment

Expected learning outcome
The learning objectives of the course are that the student demonstrates the ability to:

• qualitatively explain how the wave function of a stationary state depends on the energy of the particle and the form of the potential
• solve the Schrödinger equation for simple one-dimensional cases, both analytically and numerically
• explain the energy spectrum of the infinite well, the harmonic oscillator, and the Hydrogen atom and know the form of the associated wave functions
• calculate particle reflection and transmission
• understand how band structure emerges in one-dimensional periodic potentials.

Subject overview

1. Schrödinger equation
2. Wave function and its probability interpretation
3. Characterising the wave functions of the stationary states and the energy
4. 
Specific 1D systems (potentials), for instance infinite square well, finite square well, harmonic oscillator, and free particle
5. Superposition principle
6. Spherically symmetric systems
7. The Hydrogen atom
8. Periodic potentials 
9. Scattering in 1D 
10. Tunnel Effect

Literature
There isn't any litterature for the course at the moment.

Website
This course uses e-learn (blackboard).

Prerequisites for participating in the exam
None

Assessment and marking:

1. An oral exam with internal marking. Marks according to the Danish 7-point marking scale. The examination is based on assignments that have to be handed in during the course. (5 ECTS). (07003802).

Reexamination in the same exam period or immediately thereafter.

The mode of exam at the re-examination may differ from the mode of exam at the ordinary exam.

Expected working hours
The teaching method is based on three phase model.
Intro phase: 14 hours
Skills training phase: 28 hours, hereof:
 - Tutorials: 14 hours
 - Laboratory exercises: 14 hours

Educational activities
Activities during the study phase:

• Completion of the assignments from the classes.
• Study of notes and textbook

Educational form
The course is based on assignment solving that is an integrated part of the teaching. Lectures are given when needed. Computer exercises are used as an “experimental” tool for investigating quantum systems. The course focuses on the understanding of the basic principles, interpretation of quantum behaviour, and its use to practical problems.

Language
This course is taught in Danish or English, depending on the lecturer.

Remarks
The course can not be followed by students who have passed the first part of FY507.

Course enrollment
See deadline of enrolment.

Tuition fees for single courses
See fees for single courses.