640-353 Atomic, Molecular & Solid State Physics

Physics 640-341 or 640-321.

Quantum mechanics governs the structure of atomic, molecular and solid state systems, the nature of light and charge, and the interactions between these systems. Whereas earlier subjects detailed the principles and foundations of quantum mechanics, this subject details properties of real systems and discusses applications of this fundamental field of enquiry. The necessary use of quantum ideas in developing an understanding of the structure of matter is emphasised.

Students completing this subject will be able to:

• explain the role that quantum mechanics plays in a range of real physical systems;

• apply quantum mechanics to solve problems in a variety of physical systems; and

• interpret the solutions to these problems.

In addition, students will enhance their ability to:

• participate effectively as part of a group in tutorials; and

• plan effective work schedules and manage their time to meet the deadlines for submission of assessable work and prepare for tests and examinations.

The content of this subject includes aspects of the following: systems of identical particles, symmetrisation and antisymmetrisation, the Pauli exclusion principle and applications; the helium atom; degenerate perturbation theory; an introduction to many-electron atoms; fine and hyperfine structure; atoms in static external fields, the Stark and Zeeman effects, magnetism; time-dependent perturbation theory, electromagnetic transitions in atoms, spectroscopy and lasers; exponential decay and barrier penetration; an introduction to molecules and chemical bonds; crystal bonding and structure; crystal imperfections and mechanical properties; lattice vibrations and thermal properties; band theory of electrons: metals, insulators and semiconductors; dielectric and magnetic properties of solids; and superconductivity.

Tests totalling up to 2 hours and assignments totalling up to an equivalent of 3000 words during the semester (20%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (80%).

• B H Bransden and C J Joachain, Physics of Atoms and Molecules. Longman, 1983.
• C Kittel, Introduction to Solid State Physics. 6th edn, Wiley.