General Information

Instructor: Marianna Safronova

Research fields: Theoretical Atomic Physics & Quantum Computation

Fall 2003 Schedule: TR 304 Gore Hall 2.00-3.15

Goals of the course

Learn fundamentals of quantum mechanics
Learn how quantum mechanics is relevant to research in various fields and today’s technology
Aid in student’s research or in selection of field research
Aid in preparation to qualifying exam

Textbooks

Lecture notes on Atomic Physics, by Walter Johnson; available online (click at the title).
Quantum Mechanics: Fundamentals & Applications to Technology , by Jasprit Singh
Quantum mechanics , by B.H. Bransden and C.J. Joachain
Physics of Atoms and Molecules , by B.H. Bransden and C.J. Joachain

Note: These and other quantum mechanics books are available at reserve at the Physics Library.

Homework

Homework is assigned ones a week, on Tuesday.
It is due in one week, next Thursday.
Late homework policy: it is best to always return it on time. MAXIMUM number of late homeworks: 3 (no more than a week late). No explanation or notification is needed.
Homework will be graded and returned in one week.
For certain topics an alternative (more research-like) assignment may be given.

Quizzes

Occasional quizzes will be given throughout the semester.
They will not contribute to the final grade. They are, however, required.
The purpose of the quizzes is to access the familiarity of the class with specific topics and the progress of the course.

Exams & Grades

There is one midterm exam on October 23. It will be open book exam. There will be final exam.
The total grade is determined from the total homework, midterm and final exam points.
Homework contributes 50%, midterm exam contributes 20%, and final exam contributes 30%.