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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

PHYS2310Physics 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 typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Lecture331.0033.00
Independent online learning hours22.00
Private study hours95.00
Total Contact hours33.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)150.00

Private study

Reading through lecture notes and solving problems

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
In-course AssessmentRegular Coursework20.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)20.00

Resits will be in standard exam format.


Exams
Exam typeExam duration% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)1 hr 15 mins80.00
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 website

Last updated: 29/04/2024 16:19:13

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