Module description
Syllabus
Historical account of the problems with classical physics which made the development of quantum physics necessary; wave-particle dualism. Schrödinger's equation and probabilistic interpretation. Some simple one-dimensional examples. A more abstract formulation, including some remarks on general Hilbert spaces and operators. Heisenberg's uncertainty relation. Heisenberg picture of time evolution. If time permits, an outlook on symmetries, the Hydrogen atom, and other topics
Prerequisites
Normally Linear Algebra and 5CCM211a Applied Differential Equations. You should have an interest in theoretical physics. You cannot take this module if you will take 5CCM234A.
Assessment details
Students will be assessed by a written examination.
Educational aims & objectives
This module provides a first introduction to quantum mechanics, the theory used to describe processes at and below atomic length scales. Its basic formalism differs drastically from what occurs in classical mechanics, and the probabilistic aspects raise unexpected interpretational questions. The lectures will not attempt to solve those, but aim at discussing the formalism itself and at showing how it leads to key features of quantum mechanics such as Heisenberg's uncertainty principle and the surprising discreteness of certain quantities
Teaching pattern
Three hours of lectures and one hour of tutorial per week throughout the term