Foundations of Quantum Mechanics

University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/foundations-quantum-mechanics

Introduction

Understand the quantum mechanical meaning of wave-particle duality

Calculate probabilities and expectation values for physical observables

Use both Schrödinger and Heisenberg picture to solve for time evolution of quantum states

Describe fermions and bosons using multiparticle basis functions.

Syllabus

Wave-particle Duality and Schrödinger Equation

In this module we will introduce the course and the Quantum Mechanics for Engineers specialization. In addition, we will discuss wave-particle duality, time-independent Schrödinger equation. one-dimensional infinite potential well problem, properties of eigensolutions and Hilbert space.

One-dimensional Potential Problems

In this module, we will solve several one-dimensional potential problems. They include finite potential well, harmonic oscillator, potential step and potential barrier. We will discuss the physical meaning of the solutions and highlight any non-classical behaviors these problems exhibit.

Operators and Measurements 1

This module covers the theory of measurements in quantum mechanics. We start our discussion by introducing Stern-Gerlach experiment and the difficulty in interpreting the results classically. We then develop mathematical tools required to properly describe the results and then apply them to the interpretation of Stern-Gerlach experiments.

Operators and Measurements 2

In this module we expand upon the discussion from the previous module and introduces Hamiltonian, position and momentum operators and the uncertainty principle that governs the relationship between the operators. We also discuss the general principle of change of basis and the specific example of position and momentum representations.

Time Evolution of Quantum States

This module discusses how to describe the time-evolution of a quantum system. There are two equivalent methods, Schrödinger and Heisenberg pictures, where the time evolution can be obtained by the time-dependent Schrödinger equation and Heisenberg equation of motion, respectively. We will discuss the specific example of harmonic oscillator and finally introduce the particle current.

Ensembles and Identical Particles

This module discusses how to deal with ensembles. We will first discuss the difference between pure and mixed states and how to use the density matrix to describes them. We then discuss indistinguishable particles and exchange interaction, which eventually lead us to the thermal distribution functions.