PHYS 486 :: Physics Illinois :: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Course Description

Atomic phenomena integrated with an introduction to quantum theory; evidence for the atomic nature of matter and the properties of the Schrodinger equation, single particle solutions in one dimension, the hydrogen atom, perturbation theory, external fields, and atomic spectroscopy of outer electrons.
4 undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. Prerequisite: PHYS 214 and PHYS 435 or ECE 329.

Syllabus

Introduction
Uncertainty Principle
Solutions to the Schroedinger Equation
Hilbert spaces and observables
Spin and angular momentum
Hydrogen atom
(Non)degenrate Perturbation Theory
Two-particle systems
WKB approximation
Quantum Information

Textboook (required)

D. Griffiths, Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, 2^nd Edition

Supplemental Texts

L. Landau, Quantum Mechanics: Non-Relativistic Theory, 3^rdEedition
R. Feynman, Feynman Lectures on Physics v.3
Eisberg and Resnick, Quantum Physics: Of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei, and Particles, 2nd Edition
M.A. Nielsen, Quantum Computation and Quantum Information
Cohen and Tannoudji, Quantum Mechanics
R. Shankar, Principles of Quantum Mechanics, 2^nd Edition.

Lectures

The lectures will be delivered simultaneously in-person and over Zoom. The in-person class meets in 151 Loomis, which has been restricted to 29 people to allow social distancing.

Safety Note: To attend the in-person lectures you must have taken a covid-19 saliva test within in last four days (with a negative result), wear a face covering, practice social distancing, and wipe down your desk area when you arrive. Wipes are available in a dispenser in the back of room. Choose a seat that is not taped off and is marked with "I".

You can participate in the lectures online over Zoom. Put your questions in the chat window. The lectures will be moderated by a lecture TA, who will read the questions.