Quantum Mechanics I

Catalog description

First course in two-semester sequence provides an introduction to quantum mechanics. Topics include: Waves and particles, Schrodinger wave equation. Mathematical tools of quantum mechanics, Dirac bracket notation. Spin one-half and two-level systems, Pauli spin matrices, one-dimensional harmonic oscillator, creation and annihilation operators, angular momentum and rotation, particle in a central potential and hydrogen atom. Format: Four hours of lecture per week. Evaluation based upon examinations, assigned problems and attendance. Prerequisites: PHYS 323, 331 and 341. Simultaneously taught: *denotes primary course *PHYS 421, PHYS 508. Offered fall semester.