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PHY-30009 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

For academic year: 2023/24 Last Updated: 13 February 2024

PHY-30009 - Quantum Physics of Atoms and Molecules
Coordinator:
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 6
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 734921

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

No

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Successful completion of level 2 Physics/Astrophysics undergraduate programme

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

Perturbation effects on atomic systems are analysed. The quantum mechanics of simple molecules is studied, including their vibrational and rotational characteristics.

Aims
This module aims to extend your understanding of the principles of quantum mechanics and its applications to the structure and properties of atoms and molecules. Building on the material you covered at level 2, you will learn how to tackle more advanced problems using approximate methods such as perturbation theory and the variational principle. We will examine the behaviour of atoms in electric and magnetic fields and explain the origins of transitions between atomic states. The quantum physics of simple molecules and their spectroscopic behaviour will be included. Finally, continuity between classical and quantum physics will be examined and various issues explored.

Intended Learning Outcomes

The ability to apply advanced techniques of quantum mechanics to problems in atomic and molecular physics [1, 2].
A detailed understanding the quantum behaviour of atoms in external electric and magnetic fields [1, 2].
The ability to solve a range of time-dependant quantum mechanical problems [1, 2].
The ability to understand aspects of atomic and molecular spectroscopies in a semi-quantitative fashion [1, 2].
An understanding of the nature of molecular wave-functions [1, 2].
An understanding of the links between classical and quantum physics [1, 2].

Study hours

24 hours of lectures
20 hours work on problems sheets
98 hours directed reading/private study
6 hours tutorials

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Exercise weighted 20%
4 PROBLEM SHEETS
Four problem sheets, weighted at 20%

2: Unseen Exam weighted 80%
UNSEEN EXAM
Students to answer 3 questions out of 5.

Please note that for the 2022/23 Academic Year programmes may be adapted to operate in accordance with a flexible, digital approach. This means that there may be some changes made to how modules are delivered and assessed. The latest information will be provided to you by your School in module handbooks. We endeavour to give you as much notice as possible of any changes and details about the circumstance in which changes are made to programmes can be found in the Student Agreement, available at: https://www.keele.ac.uk/student-terms-and-conditions/

Last Updated: 13 February 2024