Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title QUANTUM MECHANICS AND ATOMIC PHYSICS
Code PHYS361
Coordinator Dr DE Hutchcroft
Physics
Dhcroft@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2016-17 Level 6 FHEQ First Semester 15

Aims
  • To build on the second year module on Quantum and Atomic Physics
  • To develop the formalism of quantum mechanics
  • To develop an understanding that atoms are quantum systems
  • To enable the student to follow elementary quantum mechanical arguments in the literature 

Learning Outcomes
Understanding of the role of wavefunctions, operators, eigenvalue equations, symmetries, compatibility/non-compatibility of observables and perturbation theory in quantum mechanical theory.

An ability to solve straightforward problems - different bound states and perturbing interactions.

Developed knowledge and understanding of the quantum mechanical description of atoms - single particle levels, coupled angular momentum, fine structure, transition selection rules.

Developed a working knowledge of interactions, electron configurations and coupling in atoms.

Syllabus
1 

Quantum Mechanics:

  • Operators, observables, eigenfunctions and eignvalues
  • Dirac and wavefunction representations
  • Probability distributions
  • Time evolution of wavefunctions
  • Many-particle systems
  • Bound states
  • Simple harmonic motion
  • Angular momentum
  • Central potential
  • Free particles
  • Compatible and incompatible observables
  • Heisenberg''s uncertainty principle
  • Symmetries - inversion, translation, rotation, exchange
  • Generalisation to J, ladder operators
  • Spin
  • Addition of angular momentum
  • Perturbation theory

Atomic Physics:

  • Hydrogen atom, fine structure
  • Helium atom
  • Radiative transitions, selection rules
  • Multi-electron atoms, periodic classification, Hund''s rules
  • Atoms in a magnetic field

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lecture - Lecture to the cohort on all of the topics covered in the course

Tutorial - To give feedback to the students on completed work and learn in a conversational style with staff

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 32
Lecture to the cohort on all of the topics covered in the course
  4
To give feedback to the students on completed work and learn in a conversational style with staff
      36
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 114
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Unseen Written Exam  3 hours  1  100  No reassessment opportunity  Standard UoL penalty applies  Three hour exam at the end of the semester There is no reassessment opportunity, August resit for PGT students only. Yr 3 and Yr 4 students resit at next normal opportunity. Notes (applying to all assessments) Written Examination  
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.
Explanation of Reading List: