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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2012 - 2013

Module Title Quantum Physics I
Module Code PS201
School School of Physical Sciences

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorProf Jens DucréeOffice NumberN236
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

This module begins with a discussion of the experiments on Black Body Radiation, the Photoelectric Effect, the Compton Effect, line spectra, X-rays and electron diffraction that led to the birth of Modern Physics and the introduction of Quantum Mechanics. The introduction to quantum mechanics takes as its starting point ideas about wave-particle duality, the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle and early models of the atom leading to the Bohr Theory. The time independent Schrödinger equation is introduced and applied to the solution of several one-dimensional problems, beginning with the simple particle in an infinite well and increasing in difficulty to cover the finite well and quantum tunneling.

Learning Outcomes

1. Outline the experimental work and interpretation leading to quantum physics
2. Distinguish between classical and quantum mechanical description of physical phenomena
3. Discuss characterisitc phenomena of quantum mechanics such as wave-particle duality, quantization of energy, Heisenberg's uncertainty relation, concept of probability and wave functions
4. Explain the role of the Schrödinger equation
5. Apply the Schrödinger wave equation to simple, idealized situations
6. Sketch atomic models and explain the origin of spectral lines



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture36classroom attendance
Independent Study1Working through lecture notes
Assignment Completion1Working on problem lists
Total Workload: 38

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

Indicative Syllabus
photon, blackbody radiation, Planck hypothesis, photoelectric effect, X-rays, Compton effect, electron, nuclear model of the atom, Rutherford scattering, quantum picture of the atom, Bohr atom, atomic spectra, characteristic X-rays and X-ray spectra. matter waves, de Broglie hypothesis, electron diffraction, wave-particle duality, determinism and randomness, Heisenberg's uncertainty principle. waves and wave packets. INTRODUCTORY QUANTUM MECHANICS The free particle. Interpretation of the wave-function. Normalisation of the wave function and boundary conditions. Stationary states and expectation values. One dimensional applications including; particle in a box, the finite potential well and tunneling.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment0% Examination Weight100%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • J.J. Brehm and W.J. Mullen: 0, Introduction to the Structure of Matter,
  • A.P. French and E.F. Taylor: 0, An Introduction to Quantum Physics,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
APBSc in Applied Physics
BSSAStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
BSSAOStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
ECSAStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
ECSAOStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
HMSAStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
HMSAOStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
PBMBSc Physics with Biomedical Sciences
PFBSc in Physics with French
PHABSc in Physics with Astronomy
SEBSc Science Education
SHSAStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAOStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
SMPSCSingle Module Professional Science
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