Teaching classes
Quantum Mechanics I (PHYS 481/681)
PHYS 481/681 is the first semester course of introduction level quantum mechanics. In this class, we will first introduce old quantum theory for illustrating intuitively new concepts. Then, we will introduce the most important and straightforward description of quantum mechanics, Schrodinger equation, and apply it to solve several 'stationary' problems with time-independent potentials. For describing a general system, a mathematically strict formalism is required to separate generic quantum behaviors, which can be applied to all quantum systems, from specific properties of potentials. Finally, we will show how to apply the basic principles of quantum mechanics to describe structures of simple quantum matter, such as hydrogen atom, and calculate interactions between matter and external electric and magnetic fields. To bridge the basic knowledge and cutting-edge research, we will discuss a special topic at the end of each chapter.
PHYS 481/681 is a hybrid course with mixed senior undergraduate students (PHYS 481) and junior graduate students (PHYS 681). The lectures are the same for the two groups of students. Additional problems in homework and tests are added for graduate students.
Quantum Mechanics II (PHYS 482/682)
PHYS 482/682 is the second semester course of introduction level quantum mechanics. In this class, we will first introduce basic quantum statistic concepts, such as Boson and Fermi statistics. Then, we will introduce three popular approximation methods in quantum mechanics, including perturbation theory, variational method, and WKB approximation. Schrodinger equation, and apply it to solve several 'stationary' problems with time-independent potentials. For describing a general system, a mathematically strict formalism is required to separate generic quantum behaviors, which can be applied to all quantum systems, from specific properties of potentials. Finally, we will show how to apply the basic principles of quantum mechanics to describe structures of simple quantum matter, such as hydrogen atom, and calculate interactions between matter and external electric and magnetic fields. To bridge the basic knowledge and cutting-edge research, we will discuss a special topic at the end of each chapter.
PHYS 482/682 is a hybrid course with mixed senior undergraduate students (PHYS 482) and junior graduate students (PHYS 682). The lectures are the same for the two groups of students. Additional problems in homework and tests are added for graduate students.