Admission requirements
Prior knowlegde of Analyse 1 (NA), Lineaire Algebra 2 (NA), Quantum Mechanics 1, Quantum Mechanics 2 and Introduction Moderne Natuurkunde.
Non-physics students: Good physical-chemistry/quantum-mechanical background required. If in doubt, please contact the lecturer.
Description
Spectra of atoms and molecules are an important source of information for many physical systems and processes: abundances in stars, velocities of stars and galaxies and experimental verification of chemical reactions, to name just a few. In this course we focus on the structure of atoms and simple molecules. We have to go well beyond what was taught in quantum mechanics courses about the energy level structure of the Hydrogen atom. Besides Hydrogen, we will consider Hydrogen-like systems, Helium, and many-electron atoms in general. The description of the latter necessitates the use of approximation schemes. In the last part of the course, symmetry will play an important role to describe molecular structure.
Course objectives
After completion of this course, you will be able to apply the rules of quantum mechanics to the structure and spectroscopy of atoms and simple molecules. With that knowledge you'll be able to critically analyse research papers involving spectroscopic data, explain to a considerable degree the structure of the periodic table, and qualitatively describe the spectroscopic behavior of simple molecules.
Schedule
The timetables are available through My Timetable (see the button in the upper right corner).
Teaching method
See Brightspace
Assesment method
Exam.
Resit, review & feedback
Examinations are held twice during the academic year for each component offered in that academic year. Midterm tests cannot be retaken. The Board of Examiners determines the manner of resit for practical assignments.
For review and feedback, see Brightspace.
Reading list
B. Bransden & C. Joachain: Physics of Atoms and Molecules (2nd Edition), Addison-Wesley, publisher
Other reading material, in the form of a syllabus, will be provided as the course develops.
Registration
Enrolment through MyStudyMap (button in upper right corner) is mandatory. General information about course and exam enrolment is available on the website.
Contact
For substantive questions, contact the lecturer(s) (listed in the right information bar).
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.