PHYS13071 Quantum Physics I

To establish the connection between microscopic and macroscopic descriptions of closed physical systems through a discussion of the equilibrium statistics of classical and quantum particles. Maxwell-Boltzmann, Bose-Einstein and Fermi-Dirac distribution functions and examples of their application will be discussed. To establish the principles of the Schroedinger theory of wave mechanics and discuss the solutions of the Schroedinger equation for particles moving in simple one dimensional potential wells. Barrier penetration and its application to the explanation of alpha particle emission and field emission from cathodes will be considered.

Text: Distance education study material - Eisberg, R.M., & Resnick, R., Quantum Mechanics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei & Particles, 2nd ed., Wiley, 1985.

References: Young, H.D, & Freedman, R.A. University Physics, 9th ed., Addison Wesley. Ohanian, H.C., Modern Physics, 2nd ed., Prentice-Hall, 1995. Serway, R.A., Moses, C.J., & Moyer, C.A., Modern Physics.