PHY-30029 - Module Specification
School of Chemical and Physical Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Successful completion of level 2 Physics/Astrophysics undergraduate programme

Barred Combinations

PHY-30009 Quantum Physics of Atoms and Molecules

Description for 2024/25

This advanced quantum module builds on the topics introduced at Level 5 to investigate exciting applications of quantum mechanics at the cutting-edge of modern physics such as quantum computing and quantum cryptography. You will also explore the quantum mechanics behind powerful investigative techniques used in laboratories and in astrophysics such as Raman spectroscopy and look in detail at experiments in quantum physics that challenge our common-sense understanding of the nature of reality.

- extend the students ability to apply the formalism of quantum mechanics gained in year 2 (PHY-20006) to predict and understand the behaviour of physical systems such as multi-electron atoms, molecules and quantum dots.
- introduce students to notation and concepts that will enable them to appreciate some of the recent results published on the interpretation and application of modern quantum physics.

Intended Learning Outcomes

describe and apply standard approximation techniques used in quantum mechanics: 1,3
analyse the rotation-vibration spectrum or Raman spectrum of a diatomic molecule: 1,3
describe and explain phenomena such as quantum entanglement and quantum teleportation: 1,3
discuss the merits of and problems with different proposed interpretations of quantum mechanics in the light of experimental results: 1,3
describe applications of quantum mechanics such as quantum dots and quantum cryptography and quantum computing: 1,3
interpret and apply Dirac bra-ket notation: 1,3
calculate the results of simple physical processes involving electrons using Pauli spin matrices: 1,3
describe the main concepts and results in a recent peer-reviewed journal article the application or interpretration of quantum physics: 2

Study hours

Active Learning Hours:
24 hours of lectures
6.5 hours tutorials
2.5 hours examination
Independent Study Hours:
20 hours work on problems sheets
97 hours directed reading/private study/preparation of journal summary

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment