2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
PHYS2360 Quantum Mechanics (Joint Honours)
15 creditsClass Size: 30
Module manager: Dr Zlatko Papic
Email: Z.Papic@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
This module is mutually exclusive with
| PHYS2310 | Physics 4- Quantum and Nuclear Physics |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Objectives
By the end of the module you should be able to:- write down the time dependent and time independent Schrodinger Equations;
- recall the form of and properties of wave functions, eigenfunctions and probability functions;
- derive the form of the wavefunction for a particle confined in an infinite square well;
- recall the form of the wavefunctions for other confining potentials;
- understand and use the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle;
- use operators to calculate expectation values;
- describe the concepts of symmetrical and antisymmetrical wave functions;
- explain in general terms the Pauli Exclusion Principle and use spin functions;
- describe the quantum mechanical model of the hydrogen atom;
- describe the electron configuration of atoms and their spectra;
- describe the quantum mechanical origins of ionic and covalent bonds.
Learning outcomes
Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application of:
1. Probabilistic description of quantum systems using wave functions and the Schroedinger equation;
2. Predicting outcomes of measurements on quantum systems using operators, observable expectation values and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle;
3. Describe the behaviour of a quantum particle in one-dimensional potentials, including the potential well, harmonic oscillator potential, propagation across potential barriers and quantum tunnelling;
4. Quantum-mechanical model of the hydrogen atom;
5. Pauli exclusion principle, spin and electronic structure of atoms;
6. Quantum-mechanical origin of chemical bonds and the principle of laser action.
Skills outcomes
Understanding of core Quantum Mechanics
Syllabus
Time dependent Schrodinger Wave function, eigenfunctions Standard solutions Hydrogen atom Spin, Pauli, Fermions and Bosons 1st order time independent perturbation theory. Periodic Table Quantum structure, spectra of simple atoms, Laser action Molecular bonding Elementary particles Fundamental forces Standard Model of particle physics
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Lecture | 33 | 1.00 | 33.00 |
| Independent online learning hours | 22.00 | ||
| Private study hours | 95.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 33.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150.00 | ||
Private study
Reading through lecture notes and solving problemsMethods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| In-course Assessment | Regular Coursework | 20.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 20.00 | |
Resits will be in standard exam format.
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 1 hr 15 mins | 80.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 80.00 | |
Students will have to complete an in-person exam at the end of the module. This will take place during the examinations period at the end of the semester and will be time bound.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 29/04/2024 16:19:13
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