Advanced Quantum Mechanics

Uitgebreide vaknaam	Advanced Quantum Mechanics
Leerdoelen	At the end of the course, the student is able to: 1. use and interpret the principles of quantum mechanics and quantum-mechanical concepts; 2. apply the Dirac formalism in quantum-mechanical theory development and problems; 3. explain and apply the Feynman path-integral formulation of quantum mechanics; 4. solve problems that illustrate or develop the theoretical concepts and formalism by using exact methods or various approximation schemes; 5. judge the applicability of the various calculational and approximation methods in quantum mechanics; 6. read, analyze, and discuss research papers about quantum-mechanical topics treated in the course.
Omschrijving	The course treats the general principles and applications of quantum mechanics at an advanced level, based on the Dirac formalism and the Feynman path-integral formulation. The course involves weekly theory development, problem solving, and studying and analyzing research papers about specific topics in quantum mechanics. Applications are chosen that connect to modern research in atomic and molecular, condensed matter, and subatomic physics. Examples of topics that could be covered are: the Wigner-Eckart theorem, the spin-statistics connection, the Berry phase, the Aharonov-Bohm effect, the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox and the Bell inequalities, entanglement, decoherence, quantum cryptography, quantum computing, and quantum information. The choice of topics may vary per year. The course aims to contribute to preparing the student for the master research project.
Uren per week
Onderwijsvorm	Bijeenkomst (S), Hoorcollege (LC), Opdracht (ASM), Werkcollege (T) (LC 32, ASM 16, 92 self study)
Toetsvorm	Opdracht (AST), Schriftelijk tentamen (WE) (100% WE, 0% AST)
Vaksoort	master
Coördinator	prof. dr. R.G.E. Timmermans
Docent(en)	prof. dr. R.G.E. Timmermans
Verplichte literatuur	Titel Auteur ISBN Prijs Book (recommended): Quantum mechanics and path integrals (Dover, 2010) R. P. Feynman, A. R. Hibbs 978-0486477220 Handouts: Research papers about selected topics in quantum mechanics treated during the weekly lectures. Book (recommended): Modern quantum mechanics (Pearson, 2013) J. J. Sakurai, J. Napolitano 978-9332519008
Entreevoorwaarden	The course unit assumes prior knowledge acquired from the courses Quantum Physics 1 and Quantum Physics 2 of the Bachelor Physics programme.
Opmerkingen	On the written exam the weight of the questions is specified. The answers of the students are compared to the model of correct answers. The grade of the written exam determines whether the course is passed (grade 6 or higher). Presence during the tutorial sessions where the research papers are discussed is mandatory. The homework problems and the analysis of the research papers are a mandatory requirement to enter the exam.
Opgenomen in	Opleiding Jaar Periode Type MSc Applied Physics  (Keuzevakken in Science and Engineering ) - semester II b keuze: ATP MSc Chemistry: Erasmus Mundus Theoretical Chemistry and Computing Modelling  (Electives) - semester II b keuze MSc Courses for Exchange Students: Astronomy - Physics - Energy & Environment - semester II b Physics / Applied Physics MSc Mathematics and Physics (double degree)  ( Quantum Universe (40 ects)) - semester II b verplicht MSc Nanoscience  (Optional Courses) - semester II b keuze MSc Physics: Advanced Materials  ( Compulsory courses) - semester II b verplicht MSc Physics: Quantum Universe  ( Compulsory courses) - semester II b verplicht MSc Physics: Science, Business and Policy  (Compulsory courses) - semester II b verplicht