Course content

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

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 expansion 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 oscillator and the Hydrogen atom,
• obtain basic knowledge about spin and effects of an external magnetic field,
• know the consequences of the Pauli principle.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and compulsory exercises. Expected workload in the course is 225 hours.

Recommended previous knowledge

Fundamental knowledge of mechanics including waves, and electromagnetism. Mathematics 1, 2, 3, or similar.

Course materials

P. C. Hemmer: Kvantemekanikk, Tapir, 2000. (In Norwegian). D. J. Griffiths: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, 2nd or 3rd edition. B.H. Bransden & C.J. Joachain: Quantum Mechanics, Prentice Hall, 2nd edition, 2000. Lecture notes.

Credit reductions