Quantum Physics
Spring 1998
Text: Principles of Quantum physics
by Hans C. Ohanian

    Quantum physics is an elementary theoretical description of the macroscopic observations of the microscopic world of atoms and molecules. Quantum physics is based on the observations of physical systems that cannot be classical physics. Not all, but most of these observations were made in the first quarter of the twentieth century. In general, quantum physics describes the discrete nature of atomic and molecular systems.

    During this semester we will work through the first 8 chapters of the text. On the average this is equivalent to 1 chapter every 2 weeks. We will complete the 1st chapter the 1st week of class and spend about 3 weeks on the 2nd chapter. The reason for spending an extra week on the 2nd chapter is to allow time for you to learn to use Maple---?a symbolic math language. In particular, you will use Maple for learning Fourier analysis and Fourier transforms. Much of our classroom time will spent discussing and solving the problems at the end of each chapter.

    Your grade for the course will be based on homework assignments (300 pts.), 4 one hour quizzes (400 pts.), and classroom participation (300 pts.). Since almost one-third of your grade is based on classroom participation, it is important that you keep abreast of the material. Occasional you will be given additional reading material that supplelments the text and, hopefully, provides additional insight into the physical concepts.

    It is important for you to understand that quantum physics is still in development. Interpretations of some aspects of quantum physics are still in debate, and it is not a closed subject.  Keep this fact in mind when you are in the science literature.