INTRODUCTION
TO 
QUANTUM MECHANICS
(PHY304, Fall 2016)
Together with
Einstein's theory of relativity quantum mechanics constitutes
one of the fundamental pillars
of
modern physics. Quantum mechanics
describes phenomena on atomic and subatomic scales where particles behave like waves and wave
phenomena acquire particle-like
attributes. In many instances quantum behavior is manifested
on much larger lengthscales and is
directly observable in our everyday lives (lasers, semiconductors, superconducting devices,
etc. )
This course will
provide a rigorous introduction into the world of quantum
phenomena. We shall introduce the wavefunction
description of matter, Schrodinger
equation governing the behavior of the wavefumction, discuss
its interpretation and find its solutions for a
number of interesting situations.
Understanding the principles of the quantum mechanics involves
learning considerable amount of mathematical
formalism. Thus, although we shall not
need any truly complicated math, working knowledge of the
basic calculus, differential equations, and linear
algebra will be expected and demanded.
- Instructor: Prof. M. Franz, Henn
336 <franz(at)phas(dot)ubc(dot)ca>
- Textbook:
“Introduction to Quantum
Mechanics” by D. J. Griffiths, (second edition,
Prentice Hall 2005). The course will cover chapters 1-5 plus
some additional material presented in class. Textbook is
available in the UBC Bookstore. A somewhat cheaper but
identical version is available directly from the publisher,
see here.
- Lectures:
Tu & Th, 9:30-11:00 in Henn 202
- Office hours:
Tue 11:00-12:00, We 14:00-15:00
and by appointment in Henn 336.
- Teaching
assistants:
- Peter Gustainis <pgustais(at)gmail(dot)com>
- Steffen Henkelmann <shenkel(at)phas(dot)ubc(dot)ca>
- Chengshu Li <chengshu(at)phas(dot)ubc(dot)ca>
Course announcements:
- The first class takes place on Thursday Sept. 8. (There is no class
on Sept. 6 due to Imagine UBC activities).
