Course content

Introduction to quantum mechanics. The Schrödinger equation.
Quantum mechanical postulates.
Particle in a box and a potential well.
Harmonic oscillator. Scattering in one dimension. Angular momentum. The hydrogen atom.

Learning outcome

The student is supposed to: — know the main features of the historical development of quantum mechanics, — master central concepts like operators, eigenfunctions, eigenvalues, and the Schrödinger equation, and know the role of these in quantum mechanics, — learn how this theory can be formulated in terms of a set of basic postulates and a number of central theorems, where notions like expansions in terms of eigenstates, stationary and non-stationary states, and compatible and non-compatible observables play central roles, — learn how to apply this formalism, first to simple one-dimensional systems like potential wells, the harmonic oscillator and scattering in one dimension, later to three-dimensional systems, in particular the hydrogen atom.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and exercises. Compulsory exercises. The re-sit examination (in August) may be changed from written to oral.

Compulsory assignments

• Calculation exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Fundamental knowledge of mechanics including waves, and electromagnetism.

Course materials

P. C. Hemmer: Kvantemekanikk, Tapir, 2000. (In Norwegian).
B.H. Bransden & C.J. Joachain: Quantum Mechanics, Prentice Hall, 2nd edition, 2000. Lecture notes. D. J. Griffiths, Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, 2nd endition.

Credit reductions