Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Quantum Physics I
Module Code	PS201
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Jens Ducree Semester 2: Jens Ducree Autumn: Jens Ducree
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module begins with a discussion of the experiments on Black Body Radiation, the Photoelectric Effect, the Compton Effect, line spectra, X-rays and electron diffraction that led to the birth of Modern Physics and the introduction of Quantum Mechanics. The introduction to quantum mechanics takes as its starting point ideas about wave-particle duality, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle and early models of the atom leading to the Bohr Theory. The time independent Schrödinger equation is introduced and applied to the solution of several one-dimensional problems, beginning with the simple particle in an infinite well and increasing in difficulty to cover the finite well and quantum tunneling.

Learning Outcomes

1. Outline the experimental work and interpretation leading to quantum physics
2. Distinguish between classical and quantum mechanical description of physical phenomena
3. Discuss characterisitc phenomena of quantum mechanics such as wave-particle duality, quantization of energy, Heisenberg's uncertainty relation, concept of probability and wave functions
4. Explain the role of the Schrödinger equation
5. Apply the Schrödinger wave equation to simple, idealized situations
6. Sketch atomic models and explain the origin of spectral lines

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	36	classroom attendance
Independent learning time	1	Working through lecture notes
Assignment	1	Working on problem lists
Total Workload: 38

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Indicative Syllabus.
photon, blackbody radiation, Planck hypothesis, photoelectric effect, X-rays, Compton effect, electron, nuclear model of the atom, Rutherford scattering, quantum picture of the atom, Bohr atom, atomic spectra, characteristic X-rays and X-ray spectra. matter waves, de Broglie hypothesis, electron diffraction, wave-particle duality, determinism and randomness, Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. waves and wave packets. INTRODUCTORY QUANTUM MECHANICS The free particle. Interpretation of the wave-function. Normalisation of the wave function and boundary conditions. Stationary states and expectation values. One dimensional applications including; particle in a box, the finite potential well and tunneling..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	0%	Examination Weight	100%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List