Module: Quantum Physics II

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Quantum Physics II
Module Code	PHY1048 (ITS: PS301)
Faculty	Physical Sciences	School	Science & Health
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

To introduce the student to introductory topics in quantum mechanics. The formal rules of quantum mechanics are introduced. It is shown how physical states and observables are represented in quantum mechanics. The dynamics and measurement properties of the observables are studied. Emphasis is placed on quantum computing concepts and certain aspects are illustrated with applications to simple operations. The quantum mechanical propertis of typical physical systems (harmonic oscillator, atomic systems, atomic systems in electric/magnetic fields, spin) are introduced and examined.

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an understanding of how quantum states and observables are represented (Hilbert space);
2. Dynamics and measurement of observables; quantum probability of occurence; the 'collapse' of the wavefunction
3. Explain the significance of operators and eigenvalue problems in quantum mechanics;
4. Introduction to quantum computing concepts and methods
5. Application of quantum mechanics methods to harmonic oscillator, simple atomic systems and two-level systems interacting with electric/magnetic fields

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	30	No Description
Assignment Completion	20	No Description
Independent Study	75	No Description
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	11368	Part of Term	Semester 1
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC3	Best Mark	Y
Module Co-ordinator	Lampros Nikolopoulos	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Take Home Problem Sets	25%	Every Second Week
Formal Examination	End-of-Semester Final Examination	75%	End-of-Semester

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

POSTULATES OF QUANTUM MECHANICS
Introduction to quantum representation of physical states and observables. Hilbert vector- and matrix-states and operators, Compatible observables, Commutation Relations. The Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics.

QUANTUM DYNAMICS
Hamiltonian of quantum systems and its unique role for quantum dynamics; time-dependent Schrodinger and density-matrix equations. Measurement process and its properties.

FUNDAMENTAL QUANTUM SYSTEMS
Harmonic oscillator, spin quantum systems, atomic hydrogen, Quantum systems in electric and magnetic fields (two-level systems)

QUANTUM COMPUTING
Concepts of quantum computing methods, quantum gates and circuits. Quantum operation to simple quantum systems (two-level systems)

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Robert Scherrer: 0, Quantum Mechanics an Accessible Introduction,
Auletta, Fortunato and Parisi: 0, Quantum Mechanics, Cambridge University Press,
Cohen-Tannoudji, Diu and Laloe: 0, Quantum Mechanics,
Steven Weinberg: 0, Lectures on Quantum Mechanics, Cambridge University Press,
Nielsen and Chuang: 0, Quantum Computation and Information,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None