Natural Science 0183 - Quantum Mechanics

This course investigates the structure of a powerful intellectual influence of our times: modern theoretical physics. Using two-state systems including electron spin and photon polarization, we develop the actual quantum theory in its matrix mechanics form. That theory underlies our current understanding of atoms, particles, and virtually all physical processes: it is fundamental to all modern physics including Quantum Teleportation, Computation & Information, AND has important philosophical consequences as well. Quantum mechanics underlies all chemistry and molecular processes, including biology. The course has three themes: quantitative approximations to interesting phenomena; formal use of mathematics to describe observations; the philosophical and cultural significance of interpretations of physical theory. Students contact course material in ways parallel to physicists approaching nature. How to formulate questions, including how to make them into solvable puzzles, how to work cooperatively -- utilizing both learned and created concepts -- and how to master formal reasoning are all learned by experience. Students are expected to attend an additional 1.5 hours "lab" time for problem solving TBA at the first class meeting.

Physical and Biological Sciences Quantitative Skills In this course students are generally expected to spend at least 6 to 8 hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.