Quantum & Statistical Physics

Overview

Quantum history, particle waves, uncertainty principle, quantum wells, Schrödinger wave equation SWE.

1D SWE Solutions:
Infinite and finite square potential well, harmonic potential well, particle wave at a potential step, particle wave at a potential barrier, quantum tunnelling, 1st order perturbation theory.

3D Solutions of SWE:
Particle in a box, hydrogen atom, degeneracy.

Statistical Mechanics:
Pauli exclusion principle, fermions, bosons, statistical distributions, statistical entropy, partition function, density of states. Examples of Boltzmann, Fermi-Dirac, Bose-Einstein distributions.

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate how fundamental principles in quantum and statistical mechanics are derived and physically interpreted. In particular the uncertainty principle, the Schrödinger wave equation, tunnelling, quantum numbers, degeneracy, Pauli exclusion principle, statistical entropy, Boltzmann, Fermi-Dirac and Bose-Einstein distributions.

Obtain and interpret solutions of the Schrödinger wave equation in 1D for several simple quantum wells and barriers, and in 3D for a particle in a box and the hydrogen atom.

Apply quantum mechanics and statistical distributions to explain different physical phenomena and practical applications.

Plan, execute and report the results of an experiment or investigation, and compare results critically with predictions from theory

Skills

Problem solving. Searching for and evaluating information from a range of sources. Written communication of scientific concepts in a clear and concise manner. Working independently and meeting deadlines.

Assessment

None.