640-243 Quantum Mechanics & Thermal Physics

Physics 640-121 and 640-122 (or 640-141 and 640-142); mathematics: one of [00]620-111, 620-121, 620-141; or equivalent.

One of mathematics 620-112, 620-122, 620-142, 620-211; and one of 620-113, 620-123 or 620-143.

This subject introduces two fundamental areas of physics:

1. The developments in 20th century physics which led to the formulation of wave mechanics and quantum physics. Specific topics will include the experimental basis of quantum mechanics; wave-particle duality, probability interpretation and the wave function; wave packets and an introduction to Fourier transforms; Schrödinger equation and stationary states; one-dimensional examples: potential steps, barriers and wells, linear momentum; operators and expectation values; and an idea of three-dimensional problems and the hydrogen atom.

2. The exploration of concepts such as heat, temperature and internal energy via the classical phenomenological approach to thermal physics as well as the atomistic approach provided by kinetic theory and statistical mechanics. These developments are central to an understanding of many processes in physics, chemistry and engineering. Content includes basic concepts: thermal equilibrium and thermometry; kinetic theory and ideal gases; heat, work and the first law of thermodynamics; introduction to statistical mechanics; second law: entropy, heat engines and refrigerators; and free energy, phase changes and thermodynamics.

Student will develop skills in the analytic and computational techniques required to solve problems in quantum mechanics and thermal physics.

A 3-hour end-of-semester written examination plus tests, projects and/or assignments, set during the semester, which may account for up to 20% of the final marks.

• R A Serway, C J Moses and C A Moyer, Modern Physics. Saunders.
• D V Schroeder, An Introduction to Thermal Physics. Addison Wesley, 2000.