Quantum Mechanics unit (KYA321)

Hobart

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	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Physics
Coordinator	Professor Stas Shabala
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 1

Note

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Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 1	21/2/2027	15/3/2027	18/4/2027	12/6/2027

* 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 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

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

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
			not applicable

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KYA211 Waves and Kinetic Theory AND KYA212 Electromagnetism and Thermodynamics AND KMA252 Calculus and Applications 2 AND KMA254 Linear Algebra and Differential Equations

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.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.