| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
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To present quantum mechanics in a formal way summarising material at previous stages in a number of operator postulates.
To develop a number of approximation methods in quantum mechanics including the variational principle and perturbation theory.
To present applications of these approximation methods in a number of areas including the Stark effect, the Zeeman effect, atomic transitions.
To present simple approaches to treat systems with more than one particle using quantum mechanics.
Fundamental principles of quantum mechanics. Formal presentation and review of stage two material.
Approximation Methods:
The variational principle; time independent perturbation theory; time dependent perturbation theory, Fermi’s golden rule, atomic transitions, variational principle.
Simple treatment of many electron systems. Spin. The helium atom. Dimensional methods.
To understand and be able to express the operator postulates.
To know the key approximation methods in quantum mechanics.
To understand the principles underpinning the Stark effect, the Zeeman effect, atomic transitions.
To understand the approximate simplified approaches to QM treatment of systems with more than one particle.
To be able to state, explain the physical basis of, and apply operators at a mathematical level.
To be able to critically evaluate approximation methods in quantum mechanics.
To be able to apply the mathematical frameworks (e.g. perturbation theory) to physics problems.
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 20 | 1:00 | 20:00 | Formal Lectures |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 6 | 5:00 | 30:00 | Problem Solving Exercises (bi-weekly) |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 24 | 0:30 | 12:00 | Revision for final exam |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 1:30 | 1:30 | Final Exam |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 4 | 1:00 | 4:00 | In class tutorials |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Drop-in/surgery | 12 | 0:10 | 2:00 | Office hours |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 30:30 | 30:30 | Reviewing lecture notes; background reading; tutorial sheets |
| Total | 100:00 |
Lectures provide core material and guidance for further reading, problem solving practice is provided through tutorials and continually assessed exercises. Office hours (two per week) will provide an opportunity for more direct contact between individual students and the lecturer: a typical student might spend a total of one or two hours over the course of the module, either individually or as part of a group.
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | 120 | 1 | A | 90 | N/A |
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prob solv exercises | 1 | M | 10 | Bi-weekly problem solving exercises |
The examination provides the opportunity for the student to demonstrate their understanding of the course material. The problem solving aspects of the assessment enable students to demonstrate that they are able to apply this understanding and their analysis and synthesis skills to novel situations. Problems are set and assessed during the module to enhance the understanding of the material and nurture the progressive acquisition of skills in solving illustrative problems.
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Disclaimer: The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2022/23 academic year. In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described. Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2023/24 entry will be published here in early-April 2023. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.