Module Code - Title:
PH4061
-
QUANTUM MECHANICS
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
PH4171
PH4042
PH4132
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
The pupose of the module is to extend the students understanding of quantum mechanics and to introduce students to applications of quantum mechanics in solid state physics.
Syllabus:
Review of Schrodinger picture: barriers, wavepackets, scattering. Formalism: linear operators, harmonic oscillator, Dirac notation, postulates, the uncertainty principle. Quantum mechanics in three dimensions: the hydrogen atom, angular momentum, spin. Time independent perturbation theory: spin-orbit coupling, the Zeeman effect. The variational principle: the ground state of helium. Bonding: the hydrogen molecule, molecular orbitals. The WKB approximation: tunnelling. Energy bands: Bloch theorem, Kronig-Penney model, nearly free electron model, the tight binding model. Time dependent perturbation theory: two level systems, emission and absorption of radiation, spontaneous emission.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
- Explain the fundamental concepts and foundations of quantum mechanics.
- Discuss the application of quantum mechanics to the hydrogen atom.
- Discuss approximate methods of solution in applications of quantum mechanics.
- Discuss the application of quantum mechanics to bonding, orbitals and energy bands.
- Derive relevant equations describing quantum systems, from basic laws and principles.
- Solve numerical problems from information provided on the topics covered.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
Discuss the importance of quantum mechanics in physics.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Students will learn via interactive lecture, experiential tutorial and problem based private study.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Griffiths, D J (2004)
Introduction to quantum mechanics
, Benjamin Cummings
Atkins, A, F, Friedman, R (2005)
Molecular quantum mechanics
, Oxford University Press
Other Relevant Texts:
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Module Leader:
Ning.Liu@ul.ie