Quantum Mechanics

Fall 2009

Instructor - Paulo Acioli

Course Description

PHYS-336 Quantum Mechanics, 3 cr.

First part of a two term sequence dealing with quantum physics. Review of the experimental evidence for the wave properties of light and discussion of atomic spectra and electron spin, elementary wave mechanics, the hydrogen atom, the properties of many electron atoms and the periodic table, and the structure of molecules. Prereq.: three 300-level physics. Prereq.: three 300-level physics.

Textbook

Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, 2nd Ed., By David J. Griffiths, Pearson Prentice Hall

Other Useful References:

• Quantum Mechanics, Stephen Gasiorowicz
• Quantum Mechanics, vol. 1, by Claude Cohen-Tannoudji, Bernard Diu, Frank Laloe
• Quantum Mechanics, by Leonard I. Schiff
• Quantum Mechanics, by Eugen Merzbacher

Lectures

SEC 31, TR at 5:40 PM - 6:55 PM, in SCI-351.

Problem Sets

Weekly problem sets are assigned here. Problem Sets will not be collected. They are assigned to help the student prepare for the quizzes and exams. Problem set assignments and solutions (if available) can be found here.

Quizzes

Quizzes will be given every two weeks, with the exception of the first week of class and weeks where there is a midterm. Quizzes are based on the problem sets and material from the previous lectures. The two lowest quiz grades will be dropped. Missed quizzes are counted as zero. There will be no quiz make-ups.

Exams

This course has two one-hour midterm exams and a two-hour final. The exams are largely based on material from lectures and problems similar to those found in the weekly assignments. Exam policies can be found here.

Grading

The final grade will be based on:
Two midterms (1/4) + (1/4) + Problems (1/4) + Final (1/4)

Any student who achieves a percentile score of above 90%, 80%, 70%, 60% is guaranteed to receive an A, B, C, or D respectively. These percentile scores may be adjusted downwards based on a class curve and other considerations.

Office Hours

Posted here and by appointment in room 217C SCI.

Academic Integrity

The NEIU policy on academic integrity can be found here.