Quantum Physics

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

Estimated total time commitment of 170 hours

Physics

All three of

(PHYC20009 Thermal and Classical Physics may be taken concurrently)

OR

And Mathematics

And at least one of

None

None

Students may only gain credit for one of

• PHYC30018 Quantum Physics

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study and reasonable steps will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their active and safe participation in a subject are encouraged to discuss this with the relevant subject coordinator and the Disability Liaison Unit.

Quantum mechanics plays a central role in our understanding of fundamental phenomena, primarily in the microscopic domain. It lays the foundation for an understanding of atomic, molecular, condensed matter, nuclear and particle physics.

Topics covered include:

• the basic principles of quantum mechanics (probability interpretation; Schrödinger equation; Hermitian operators, eigenstates and observables; symmetrisation, antisymmetrisation and the Pauli exclusion principle; entanglement)
• wave packets, Fourier transforms and momentum space
• eigenvalue spectra and delta-function normalisation
• Heisenberg uncertainty principle
• matrix theory of spin
• the Hilbert space or state vector formation using Dirac bra-ket notation
• the harmonic oscillator
• the quantisation of angular momentum and the central force problem including the hydrogen atom
• approximation techniques including perturbation theory and the variational method
• applications to atomic and other systems.

Students completing this subject should be able to:

• explain the basic principles of quantum physics including the probability interpretation, unitary time-evolution, the association of operators with observables, Pauli exclusion principle, and entanglement;
• solve elementary problems involving intrinsic spin;
• solve problems by applying quantum mechanical theory to situations involving atoms, molecules, solids, nuclei and elementary particles;
• appreciate the importance of approximation techniques in quantum mechanics.

• One written assignment to an equivalent of 1500 words during the semester (15%)
• One poster presentation (15%)
• A 3-hour written examination in the examination period (70%)

None

• D J Griffiths Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, 2nd Ed, Pearson Prentice Hall 2005.
• E Merzbacher, Quantum Mechanics, Wiley

This subject potentially can be taken as a breadth subject component for the following courses:

• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of Environments
• Bachelor of Music

You should visit learn more about breadth subjects and read the breadth requirements for your degree, and should discuss your choice with your student adviser, before deciding on your subjects.

A student who completes this subject should be able to:

• analyse how to solve a problem by applying simple fundamental laws to more complicated situations
• apply abstract concepts to real-world situations
• solve relatively complicated problems using approximations
• participate as an effective member of a group in tutorial discussions
• manage time effectively in order to be prepared for tutorial classes, undertake the written assignments and the examination.

This subject is available for science credit to students enrolled in the BSc (both pre-2008 and new degrees), BASc or a combined BSc course.