PHYS 344: Introduction to Quantum Science

By Erica Carlson

Department of Physics and Astronomy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN

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Abstract

Fall 2024, This course in in production and lectures will appear as they are produced.

This course offers an introduction to quantum mechanics, exploring how it has transformed our understanding of the physical world and revolutionized modern technology. The concepts will be illustrated with a variety of contemporary physics results and applications, including relativistic effects and a brief overview of the emerging field of quantum information science and engineering.

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Understand key concepts in quantum mechanics, including wave-particle duality, superposition, entanglement, and the uncertainty principle. Apply these concepts to predict the behavior of quantum magnets (spins) and quantum light (photons).
  2. Learn the wavefunction, the Schrödinger equation, and probability and measurement outcomes in quantum mechanics. Solve the Schrödinger equation in simple model systems and use the results to understand atom spectra, nuclear reactions, molecular bonds, and electronic motion in solids (including semiconductors and superconductors).
  3. Understand how quantum mechanics has enabled many modern technologies, including lasers, transistors, solar cells, magnetic resonance imaging, electron microscopy, and the global positioning system. Understand basic ideas of the theory of relativity and relativistic effects in contemporary quantum science.
  4. Gain an overview of the emerging field of quantum information science and engineering by exploring quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing.

Cite this work

Researchers should cite this work as follows:

  • Erica Carlson (2024), "PHYS 344: Introduction to Quantum Science," https://nanohub.org/resources/39707.

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Lecture Number/Topic Online Lecture Video Lecture Notes Supplemental Material Suggested Exercises
PHYS 344 Lecture 01: How to Sit in 3 Chairs (Particle-Wave Duality and Superposition) View HTML
View Notes (pdf)
PHYS 344 Lecture 02: Observers Disturb What They Measure View HTML
View Notes (pdf)
PHYS 344 Lecture 02A: Crash Course on Complex Numbers View HTML
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PHYS 344 Lecture 03A: Waves and the Wavefunction View
PHYS 344 Lecture 03B: Observer Determines Reality? | Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle View
PHYS 344 Lecture 03C: Quantum Myths View
PHYS 344 Lecture 04A: Water Waves, Bullets, and Quantum Waves I View
PHYS 344 Lecture 04B: Water Waves, Bullets, and Quantum Waves II View
PHYS 344 Lecture 05: Interference in Two Slit Experiements View HTML
View Notes (pdf)
Mathematica: Interference Light Waves Two Slit-v2.0.nb
PHET: Quantum Wave Interference Simuation
PHYS 344 Lecture 06: Hydrogen Atom View
PHYS 344 Lecture 07: Atomic Spectra and Starlight View
PHYS 344 Lecture 08: Periodic Table View on YouTube
PHYS 344 Lecture 09: Introducing the Shrodinger Equation View on YouTube
PHYS 344 Lecture 10: More About the Schrodinger Equation View on YouTube
PHYS 344 Lecture 11: Stationary States and Sloshing States View on YouTube
PHYS 344 Lecture 12: Finishing Sloshing States + Starting Midterm Review View on YouTube