This course introduces the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, the branch of physics that describes the behavior of matter and energy at very small scales (atomic and subatomic levels). Students will learn key concepts that challenge our classical intuition and explore the mathematical framework used to understand the quantum world.

Key Topics Covered:

• Wave-Particle Duality: Understanding how particles, like electrons, can exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties.
• The Schrödinger Equation: Introduction to the time-dependent and time-independent Schrödinger equations and their role in predicting the behavior of quantum systems.
• Quantum States and Superposition: Exploring quantum states, probability amplitudes, and the principle of superposition, where particles exist in multiple states simultaneously.
• Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle: Understanding the limits of measurement precision and the inherent uncertainties in position and momentum.
• Quantum Tunneling: Investigating the phenomenon where particles pass through potential barriers that would be insurmountable in classical physics.
• Quantum Entanglement and Non-locality: Studying the strange and non-intuitive phenomenon where particles become linked, and changes to one affect the other, even at great distances.
• Applications of Quantum Mechanics: Real-world applications such as semiconductors, lasers, and quantum computing.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Understand the basic principles of quantum mechanics and how they differ from classical physics.
• Solve simple quantum mechanical problems using the Schrödinger equation.
• Interpret physical phenomena like wave-particle duality and quantum tunneling.
• Apply quantum mechanics concepts to explain modern technology, such as transistors and lasers.

Note:

Basic knowledge of classical mechanics, mathematics (especially calculus), and linear algebra.