PX3A2-10 Quantum Physics of Atoms
Introductory description
The principles of quantum mechanics are applied to a range of phenomena in atomic physics including the operation of a laser. The module also covers perturbation theory and variational methods.
Module aims
To develop the ideas of quantum theory
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
Revision of 2nd year quantum theory
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Approximation methods in quantum mechanics. Time-independent perturbation theory, non-degenerate case, ground state of helium atom, degenerate case, Stark effect in hydrogen. Variational methods: Rayleigh - Ritz, ground state of helium atom
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Spin-orbit coupling and the Zeeman effect. Effects of spin-orbit coupling, and the strong and weak field Zeeman effect using time-independent perturbation theory
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Many electron effects-indistinguishability of identical particles. Identical particles and spin; symmetric and anti-symmetric states; discussion of periodic table, ionisation energies
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Time-dependent perturbation theory and lasers. Derivation of Fermi's golden rule; radiation from atoms; operation of the laser. Two-level driven system near resonance
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Two-level systems. Examples to include some of the ammonia clock, Rabi oscillations, qubits, magnetic resonance
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Use the approximate methods of quantum theory – perturbation theory (time-dependent and time-independent), variational methods
- Explain the role of spin and the Pauli exclusion principle
- Explain atomic spectra and the structure of the periodic table
- Describe resonance in 2-level systems
Indicative reading list
F Mandl, Quantum Mechanics, Wiley;
A.I.M. Rae, Quantum Mechanics, IOP, 2002;
S. Gasiorowicz, Quantum Physics, Wiley, 2003;
S.M. McMurry, Quantum Mechanics, Addison-Wesley 1994
View reading list on Talis Aspire
Subject specific skills
Knowledge of mathematics and physics. Skills in modelling, reasoning, thinking.
Transferable skills
Analytical, communication, problem-solving, self-study
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 20 sessions of 1 hour (20%) |
| Private study | 80 hours (80%) |
| Total | 100 hours |
Private study description
Working through lecture notes, solving problems, wider reading, discussing with others taking the module, revising for exam, practising on past exam papers
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You do not need to pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group D1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 15% | No | |
|
Tests |
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| In-person Examination | 85% | No | |
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Answer 2 questions
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Assessment group R1
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-person Examination - Resit | 100% | No | |
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Answer 2 questions
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Feedback on assessment
Personal tutor, group feedback
Courses
This module is Core for:
- Year 3 of UPXA-FG31 Undergraduate Mathematics and Physics (MMathPhys)
- Year 3 of UPXA-F300 Undergraduate Physics (BSc)
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UPXA-F303 Undergraduate Physics (MPhys)
- Year 3 of F300 Physics
- Year 3 of F303 Physics (MPhys)
- Year 4 of UPXA-F301 Undergraduate Physics (with Intercalated Year)
- Year 3 of UPXA-F3F5 Undergraduate Physics with Astrophysics (BSc)
- Year 3 of UPXA-F3FA Undergraduate Physics with Astrophysics (MPhys)
This module is Option list B for:
- Year 3 of UPXA-GF13 Undergraduate Mathematics and Physics (BSc)
- Year 3 of UPXA-FG31 Undergraduate Mathematics and Physics (MMathPhys)
- Year 4 of UPXA-GF14 Undergraduate Mathematics and Physics (with Intercalated Year)