Quantum, Atomic and Optical Physics
Overview
The aims of this unit are to provide students with a solid development of quantum mechanics (in particular the fundamental formalism and its application to simple quantum systems) and to provide an introduction to the quantum mechanics of subatomic systems and to the theory of atomic physics and laser spectroscopy.
Requisites
02-November-2025
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Describe the mathematical formalism and fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and carry out calculations using that formalism
- Use quantum mechanics to describe atomic systems, the interaction of light with matter and its application to subatomic systems
- Critically evaluate the differences between quantum and classical mechanics
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of fundamental applications of quantum mechanics, including laser spectroscopy, and their importance to modern technologies
- Apply knowledge of quantum mechanics and develop hands-on skills to successfully complete a series of laboratory-based exercises
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Type | Hours per week | Number of weeks | Total (number of hours) |
|---|---|---|---|
| On-campus Lecture |
2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| On-campus Class |
2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| On-campus Lab |
2.00 | 12 weeks | 24 |
| Unspecified Activities Independent Learning |
5.50 | 12 weeks | 66 |
| Online Learning Activities |
1.00 | 12 weeks | 12 |
| TOTAL | 150 |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Individual | 5 - 20% | 1,2,3,4 |
| Examination | Individual | 40 - 60% | 1,2,3,4 |
| Laboratory Report | Individual | 10 - 30% | 2,3,4,5 |
| Quizzes | Individual | 5 - 20% | 1,2,3,4 |
Hurdle
As the minimum requirements of assessment to pass a unit and meet all ULOs to a minimum standard, an undergraduate student must have achieved:
(i) an aggregate mark of 50% or more, and(ii) at least 40% in the final exam, and(iii) Obtain at least 40% of the possible marks for the laboratory. Students who do not successfully achieve hurdle requirement (ii) and (iii) will receive a maximum of 45% as the total mark for the unit.
Content
-
Formalism of Quantum Mechanics
-
The Schrodinger Equation in 1 dimension
-
Angular momentum and the hydrogen atom
-
Perturbation theory and Dirac notation
-
Matrix mechanics and spin
-
Two-level atom
-
Fine structure
-
Hyperfine structure
-
Laser Doppler-free spectroscopy
-
Quantum computation
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.