PHYS 301
Quantum Physics Fall 2023
Division III Quantitative/Formal Reasoning

Class Details

This course serves as a one-semester introduction to the formalism, and phenomenology of quantum mechanics. After a brief discussion of historical origins of the quantum theory, we introduce the Schrodinger wave equation, the concept of matter waves, and wave-packets. With this introduction as background, we will continue our discussion with a variety of one-dimensional problems such as the particle-in-a-box and the harmonic oscillator. We then extend this work to systems in two and three dimensions, including a detailed discussion of the structure of the hydrogen atom. Along the way we will develop connections between mathematical formalism and physical predictions of the theory. Finally, we conclude the course with a discussion of angular momentum and spins, with applications to atomic physics, entanglement, and quantum information.
The Class: Format: lecture/laboratory; lecture, three hours per week; laboratory, three hours per week
Limit: 20
Expected: 15
Class#: 1362
Grading: no pass/fail option, yes fifth course option
Requirements/Evaluation: weekly problem sets, laboratory reports / write-ups, a midterm exam, and final exam, all of which have a substantial quantitative component
Prerequisites: PHYS 202 and PHYS/MATH 210 or MATH 309
Enrollment Preferences: physics majors
Distributions: Division III Quantitative/Formal Reasoning
QFR Notes: Phys 301 relies heavily upon mathematics and quantitative reasoning in all elements, including problem sets, examinations, and laboratories.

Class Grid

Updated 2:23 am

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