To build on Y3 module on Quantum Mechanics and Atomic Physics (PHYS203) with the intention of providing breadth and depth in the understanding of the commonly used aspects of Quantum mechanics. To develop an understanding of the ideas of perturbation theory for complex quantum systems and of Fermi's Golden Rule. To develop an understanding of the techniques used to describe the scattering of particles. To demonstrate creation and annihilation operators using the harmonic oscillator as an example. To develop skills which enable numerical calculation of real physical quantum problem. To encourage enquiry into the philosophy of quantum theory including its explanation of classical mechanics.

(LO1) At the end of the module the student should have: Understanding of advanced quantum mechanical calculations (operators in matrix form, Dirac notation, etc.). Understanding of perturbation techniques. Understanding of transition and other matrix elements. Understanding of phase space factors. Understanding of partial wave techniques. Understanding of basic cross section calculations

(LO2) Understanding of examples of state-of-the art quantum physics experiments.

(LO3) Understanding of the implications of quantum physics in our daily lives

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Analytic skills applied to quantum systems.

(S3) Communicating advanced physics problems.

General level of treatment that of Mandl "Quantum Mechanics" and a variety of modern advanced quantum physics textbooks. Quantum  problem classes will be organised to discuss in detail quantum calculation tasks and contemporary experiments. Operator formalism and Dirac notation.  Bound state perturbation theory for non-degenerate and degenerate systems. Time dependent Schrodinger equation. Time dependent perturbation theory, Fermi's Golden Rule. Emission and absorption of radiation, phase space. Scattering theory - time dependent approach; potential scattering, Born approximation, scattering by screened Coulomb potential, electron-atom scattering. Partial waves, phase shifts. Harmonic Oscillator solved using creation and annihilation operators. Specialised contemporary topics, e.g. Bell's inequality (qubits) etc. Discussion of quantum philosophy, quantum mechanics contains classical mechanics.

* material delivered but removed from exams -relevant material in 20/21 with online teaching:
[Variational methods]
[Scattering - time independent approach; scattering amplitude, integral equation, scattering of identical particles]

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Online Lectures and Quantum Problem Classes where calculations are worked out to the cohort on all of the course topics
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Work Based Learning
Description: To work in teams or individually through given Quantum tasks in four x 2 hour workshops; to discuss detailed solutions in case and to give feedback; to learn to discuss physics on an advanced level
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: 4 Quantum Workshops