Courses & Units
Quantum Mechanics KYA321
Introduction
KYA321 Quantum Mechanics provides a rigorous introduction to the theory that underpins the modern understanding of matter and radiation. We start from the semi-classical understanding of the blackbody spectrum of light and the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom and build toward the modern quantum theory with a focus on the central role played by angular momentum. We strongly emphasise the experimental foundations of the theory and the mathematical structures that make it successful. Topics include quantisation and wave packets, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, the matrix theory of spin, the central force problem, approximation techniques, applications to atomic systems, and scattering theory. Students are encouraged to develop their independent critical thinking ability in both the theoretical and practical components of the unit. KYA321 is a required unit for the physics major, and is the natural starting point for further study of atomic, nuclear, molecular, and condensed matter physics. On-campus workshop, tutorial, and practical sessions are offered in Hobart. All sessions except the practicals are also streamed and recorded. Regular assignments, practical work in the lab, and an end-of-semester exam will be used to assess your progress
Summary
| Unit name | Quantum Mechanics |
|---|---|
| Unit code | KYA321 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences |
| Discipline | Physics |
| Coordinator | Professor Andrew Cole |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Advanced |
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart | Semester 1 | On-Campus | International | Domestic | |
Key
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Note
Please check that your computer meets the minimum System Requirements if you are attending via Distance/Off-Campus.
Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 26/2/2024 | 22/3/2024 | 15/4/2024 | 2/6/2024 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2024 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2024 will be available from the 1st October 2023. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the basic principles of quantum physics including the probability interpretation, wave packets and the uncertainty principle, time evolution, and the association of operators with observables.
- Formulate and solve physical problems in quantum mechanics, including central force problems and systems with intrinsic spin.
- Solve realistic problems in atomic, molecular, and particle physics using exact and approximate quantum mechanical methods.
- Perform an advanced experiment related to physics and analyse the results.
- Communicate ideas relating to advanced formulations of quantum mechanics and atomic physics to colleagues and lay audiences using oral, written, and graphical techniques.
Fee Information
The 2024 Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) rates are still being finalised by the Government and we will update the domestic fee information as soon as we have more details.
Requisites
Prerequisites
KYA211 Waves and Kinetic Theory AND KYA212 Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics AND (KMA252 Calculus and Applications 2 OR KME271 Engineering Mathematics)Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Three 50-minute lecture/workshops each week, presented in person, on campus, to facilitate demonstrations and interactivity, but also livestreamed and recorded. One 50-minute tutorial each week, problems worked in person but also livestreamed and recorded. Programming and laboratory practical sessions weekly, presented in person on campus. Laboratory practicals are hands-on experimental activity that cannot be undertaken remotely. |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Computational Physics (10%)|Experiment logbook and analysis (15%)|Mid-semester test (15%)|Weekly Assignments (20%)|Examination (40%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.