Module overview
After studying this course students should be able to explain the concept of quantum mechanical wave function and its basic properties, the Schrödinger equation, the concepts of operator, eigenstates and the significance of measurements, and describe the quantum behaviour of systems of many particles.
Linked modules
Pre-requisites: PHYS1011 and MATH1006 and MATH1007
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Cognitive Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Explain the concept of quantum mechanical wave function and its basic properties
- Formulate the concepts of operator, eigenstates and the significance of measurements,
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Apply the Schrödinger equation in one dimensional simple situations
- Sketch the solution for the Hydrogen atom
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Describe the quantum behaviour of a particle.
Syllabus
- Probability and probability amplitudes.
- Wave functions and 1D Schrödinger equation.
- Normalisation, expectation values, momentum and position.
- Time independent Schrödinger equation: stationary states. The infinite square well, harmonic
- Oscillator, free particle, delta function potential, finite square well. Tunnelling.
- Formalism: operators, eigenstates, observables.
- Schrödinger equation in 3D: angular momentum and spin. The Hydrogen atom
Learning and Teaching
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 36 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 18 |
| Wider reading or practice | 46 |
| Completion of assessment task | 10 |
| Follow-up work | 18 |
| Revision | 10 |
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
DJ Griffiths. Introduction to Quantum Mechanics. Pearson.
AIM Rae. Quantum Mechanics. IOP.
K Tamvakis. Problems and solutions in Quantum Mechanics.
PCW Davies & DS Betts. Quantum Mechanics. Chapman & Hall.
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Course work worth 20% of the module mark will be set and assessed in the normal way. In the event that a course work is missed, students will be required to go through the Special Considerations procedures in order to request mitigation for that piece of course work. Please note that documentary evidence will normally be required before these can be considered.
The final exam is worth 80% of the module mark.
Referral Method: By examination, the final mark will be calculated both with and without the coursework assessment mark carried forward, and the higher result taken.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Problem Sheets | 20% |
| Examination | 80% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Examination | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External