Quantum Mechanics

Teaching semester

Autumn.

Objectives and Content

Starting from a small set of axioms this course provides a systematic introduction to basic quantum mechanics. The presentation makes extensive use of concepts from linear algebra. A number of simple model systems are used to illustrate how problems may be described by quantum mechanics and also to exemplify quantum mechanical (i.e. non-classical) phenomena. An exposition of the quantum mechanical theory of angular momentum is given up to and including coupling of two momenta. The students learn mathematical methods for obtaining approximate descriptions of quantum mechanical systems. Many molecules show some degree of symmetry, and the students learn how to exploit this when solving quantum mechanical problems.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the course KJEM221 the student will be able to:

• identify and describe fundamental concepts in the quantum mechanical theory and apply these to analyze idealized processes of measurement.
• develop quantum mechanical models for simple systems and use these to exemplify characteristic features in quantum mechanical systems.
• describe electronic and spectroscopic systems by means of the quantum mechanical theory of angular momentum.
• use mathematical techniques to construct approximate quantum mechanical models.
• Analyze molecular symmetry and exploit this when determining orbitals.

Recommended Previous Knowledge

MAT121 Linear algebra.

Credit Reduction due to Course Overlap

PHYS201: 10 ECTS, K221: 10 ECTS

Teaching and learning methods

The organized teaching consists of lectures and written exercises.

Lectures: 4h per week for 14-15 weeks.

Written exercises: 2h per week for 13-14 weeks.

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

At least 6 of the 13-14 sets of written exercises must be approved. Approval requires personal attendance. Compulsory assignments are valid for 5 subsequent semesters.

Forms of Assessment

Digital written examamination (4 hours)

Examination Support Material

Non- programmable calculator according to model listed in faculty regulations, molecule building kit, and five (5) A4 pages of the student's own handwritten notes.

Grading Scale

The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.

Assessment Semester

Examination both spring semester and autumn semester. In semesters without teaching the examination will be arranged at the beginning of the semester.

Reading List

The students should obtain basic knowledge in quantum mechanics. Moreover, the foundations are given for more applied methods.

Course Evaluation

The course will be evaluated by the students in accordance with the quality assurance system at UiB and the department