PHYS 350 - Quantum Mechanics I

Units: 3
Relationship between quantum measurements and the postulates of quantum mechanics is explored. Mathematical techniques are developed (Hilbert spaces, Dirac notation, operators, eigenvalues/eigenvectors). Schrodinger’s equation and the Heisenberg uncertainty relation are applied to problems involving one-dimensional potentials and angular momentum.

Prerequisites: MATH 230, and PHYS 126 or PHYS 137.
Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Course Typically Offered: Variable Intermittently

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Students will be able to explain the connection between experimental measurements on quantum systems and the mathematical representations (operators, state vectors, etc.) used in quantum theory in terms of the postulates of quantum mechanics.
Students will be able to apply the postulates of quantum mechanics to predict the results of measurements of the properties of simple quantum systems such as spin projection, position, momentum, etc.
Students will be able to calculate the energy spectra of simple quantum systems using Schrodinger’s equation and the Hamiltonian formulation.