FY521: Introductory quantum mechanics I (5 ECTS)

STADS: 07003801

Level
Bachelor course

Teaching period
The course is offered in the spring semester.
3rd quarter

Teacher responsible
Email: jbp@ifk.sdu.dk

Timetable
Group Type Day Time Classroom Weeks Comment
Common I Monday 14-16 U27 05-11
S1 TL Tuesday 12-14 U10b 05-11
S1 TE Thursday 08-10 U26 05-11
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Comment:
Yderligere undervisere: Francesco Sannino, sannino@cp3.sdu.dk

Prerequisites:
None

Academic preconditions:
Science year passed. The content of FY504 Classical Physics, FY503 Electromagnetism I, and FY505 Physical mathematics must be known.

Course introduction
To give the students a basic understanding of the quantum mechanical wave mechanics and its interpretation of different physical phenomena supplemented by an introductory training in the mathematical formalism and problem solving.

Expected learning outcome
After completing the course the student is expected to be able to:
1. qualitatively explain how the wave function of a stationary state depends on the energy of the particle and the form of the potential
2. use symmetry arguments
3. explain the energy spectrum of the infinite well, the harmonic oscillator, and the Hydrogen atom and know the form of the associated wave functions
4. use WKB, variational, and pertubation methods for approximative calculations
5. use transfer matrices for calculations of reflection and transmission coefficients
6. calculate stationary states in multiple wells and the energy bands of periodic potentials from single well information.

Subject overview
1. The Schrödinger equation
2. Probability interpretation
3. Geometrical understanding of the Schrödinger equation 

4. Uncertainty principle
5. Characterising the wave functions of the stationary states and the energy 

6. Symmetry considerations 

7. Specific 1-D systems (potentials), infinite square well, finite square well, harmonic oscillator, and triangular well
8. WKB approximation
9.Superposition principle
10. Variational calculations
11. Perturbation calculation
12. Double and multiple potential wells
13. Periodic potentials
14. Scattering on potentials
15. Tunnel effect

Literature
  • David J. Griffiths: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, 2nd edition, Pearson Education International. .


Syllabus
See syllabus.

Website
This course uses e-learn (blackboard).

Prerequisites for participating in the exam
None

Assessment and marking:
Oral examination with internal marking with 7-scale mark. The examination takes its staring point in two written reports completed during the course.

Re-examination after 4th quarter. 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.

Forelæsninger: 28 timer. Laboratorieøvelser: 14 timer.
Educational activities

Language
This course is taught in Danish.

Remarks
The course is based on project work 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, the interpretation of quantum behaviour, and its use to practical problems.

Course enrollment
See deadline of enrolment.

Tuition fees for single courses
See fees for single courses.