Admission requirements
Prior knowledge of Klassieke Mechanica a, Elektrische en Magnetische Velden, Analyse 1 (NA), Analyse 2 (NA) en Lineare Algebra 1 (NA). It is to be expected that the student is taking Analysis 3 NA.
Description
The course offers an introduction into quantum mechanics. It starts with the Schrödinger equation, and describes the wave function with its statistical interpretation. Subsequently, a few examples of quantisation are illustrated as solutions of the one-dimensional time-independent Schrödinger equation. A more formal treatment follows with the introduction of Hilbert space and the formulation of quantum mechanics in terms of linear algebra. The final objective is quantum description of the hydrogen atom, which requires a discussion of spherically symmetric three-dimensional systems, orbital angular momentum and spin angular momentum.
Concepts that will be presented include: the Schrödinger equation, Heisenberg’s uncertainty relation, the wave function and its statistical interpretation, stationary states, the wave packet, Hilbert space, tunnelling, a particle in an infinite square well, the harmonic oscillator and the free particle, operators, ladder operators, the Dirac notation, eigenvalue equations, angular momentum and spin, and the quantum description of the hydrogen atom.
Course objectives
Quantum mechanics is strange and counter-intuitive, yet it is extremely accurate and successful in describing the outcomes of experiments. True knowledge and understanding of quantum mechanics require study of many simple example systems and training in the use of the mathematical tools.
In this course the students acquire the ability to independently solve simple problems in quantum mechanics, and therewith builds intuition and understanding of the quantum world.
Timetable
Schedule
For detailed information go to Timetable in Brightspace
In MyTimetable, you can find all course and programme schedules, allowing you to create your personal timetable. Activities for which you have enrolled via MyStudyMap will automatically appear in your timetable.
Additionally, you can easily link MyTimetable to a calendar app on your phone, and schedule changes will be automatically updated in your calendar. You can also choose to receive email notifications about schedule changes. You can enable notifications in Settings after logging in.
Questions? Watch the video, read the instructions, or contact the ISSC helpdesk.
Note: Joint Degree students from Leiden/Delft need to combine information from both the Leiden and Delft MyTimetables to see a complete schedule. This video explains how to do it.
Mode of instruction
The lectures follow the book by Griffiths and Schroeter, and you are expected to prepare for each lecture by reading the materal (about 15 pages per week). The lectures are offered in English.
Exercise classes are orginised in groups. Teaching assistents will offer step-by-step instruction for solving problems, alternated with blocks of time for the students to solve problems, where assistance is constantly offered.
See Brightspace
Assessment method
Written exam with open questions. The exam can be retaken.
Reading list
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, third edition,D.J. Griffiths and D.F. Schroeter,Cambridge University Press,ISBN 978-1-107-18963-8
Registration
As a student, you are responsible for enrolling on time through MyStudyMap.
In this short video, you can see step-by-step how to enrol for courses in MyStudyMap.
Extensive information about the operation of MyStudyMap can be found here.
There are two enrolment periods per year:
Enrolment for the fall opens in July
Enrolment for the spring opens in December
See this page for more information about deadlines and enrolling for courses and exams.
Note:
It is mandatory to enrol for all activities of a course that you are going to follow.
Your enrolment is only complete when you submit your course planning in the ‘Ready for enrolment’ tab by clicking ‘Send’.
Not being enrolled for an exam/resit means that you are not allowed to participate in the exam/resit.
Contact
Contact details of the lecturer: Dr. S.P. Patil
Remarks
Software
Starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty of Science will use the software distribution platform Academic Software. Through this platform, you can access the software needed for specific courses in your studies. For some software, your laptop must meet certain system requirements, which will be specified with the software. It is important to install the software before the start of the course. More information about the laptop requirements can be found on the student website.