Gwybodaeth Modiwlau

Module Identifier
PH14310
Module Title
QUANTUM MECHANICS AND MODERN PHYSICS
Academic Year
2011/2012
Co-ordinator
Professor John Gough
Semester
Semester 2
Pre-Requisite
None
Other Staff
 

Course Delivery

Delivery Type Delivery length / details
Lecture 18 x 1 hour
Seminars / Tutorials 4 x 1 hour
 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Exam 2 Hours   Written Examination  70%
Semester Assessment Example sheets  30%
Supplementary Exam 2 Hours   written examination  100%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Illustrate the basic features of quantum mechanics.

2. Define basic notions from quantum theory and recognize their occurrence and relevance in applied problems.

3. Solve specific problems from quantum physics formulated in the appropriate theoretical terms.

4. Perform simple computations relevant to introductory quantum theory.

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Aims

Quantum mechanics underpins a significant proportion of physical theory, and we aim to teach this through a series of dedicated modules, with this being the introductory year one module. The new series will allow a progressive development of the subject, focusing more directly on the core topics, while allowing staff to introduce modern topics reflecting staff research interests and distinctive expertise in the institute. This module also introduces the other revolution in Modern Physics, Special Relativity.

Brief description

Quantum theory is essential to describe the interaction between matter and radiation at the atomic scale. It is however a radical departure from classical physics. This module will introduce the key areas in which classical and quantum mechanics differ, examine the experimental evidence, and develop the core principles of quantum mechanics in anticipation of a mathematical formulation in year 2.

Content

Starting with Feynman's analysis of the two slit experiment, we show how light and electrons behave in a non-classical manner, and why we need quantum mechanics. The wave and particle aspects of matter and light will be reviewed, along with the key experiments. The Born statistical interpretation and the Heisenberg Uncertainty principle will examined from a theoretical and practical point of view. Quantum interference effects will be discussed and modelled. Special Relativity will be introduced through key experiments, and the basic equations derived.


Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number Throughout the module.
Communication Students will be expected to submit written worksheet solutions.
Improving own Learning and Performance Feedback via tutorials.
Information Technology Extensive use of spreadsheets.
Personal Development and Career planning Students will be exposed to an area of application that they have not previously encountered.
Problem solving All situations considered are problem-based to a greater or lesser degree.
Research skills Students will be encouraged to consult various books and journals for examples of application.
Subject Specific Skills Ability to apply quantum mechanical reasoning to model physical situations.
Team work

Reading List

Essential Reading
French, A.P. (1979 (various) An introduction to quantum physics /A.P. French, Edwin F. Taylor. Nelson Primo search Supplementary Text
Phillips, A. C. (c2003.) Introduction to quantum mechanics /A.C. Phillips. Wiley Primo search

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4