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 B Cheal
Physics
Bradley.Cheal@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2018-19 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

(LO1) Understanding of the role of wavefunctions, operators, eigenvalue equations, symmetries, compatibility/non-compatibility of observables and perturbation theory in quantum mechanical theory.

(LO2) An ability to solve straightforward problems - different bound states and perturbing interactions.

(LO3) Developed knowledge and understanding of the quantum mechanical description of atoms - single particle levels, coupled angular momentum, fine structure, transition selection rules.

(LO4) Developed a working knowledge of interactions, electron configurations and coupling in atoms.

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Analytic skills applied to quantum systems

Syllabus
 

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

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lecture to the cohort on all of the topics covered in the course
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorial
Description: To give feedback to the students on completed work and learn in a conversational style with staff
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 32

   4

       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
Three hour exam at the end of the semester Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1  3 hours    100       
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.