Quantum Mechanics II 2025 / Kvanttimekaniikka II 2025 763613S-3005

Learning outcomes 

Contents  

The course is divided into two parts. In the first part, we recap the familiar basic concepts of the wave function and postulates by introducing the state vectors and operator formalism. Modern quantum mechanical topics such as entanglement and measurements are discussed as an immediate application of operator formalism. The theory of angular momentum and spin is subsequently revisited, providing a comprehensive understanding of these concepts. Furthermore, we study interactions between particles using scattering theory, introducing concepts such as cross-section, phase shift, scattering amplitude, and Green’s function. 

The second part of the course is dedicated to an in-depth discussion of various approximative methods and their practical applications. Effects of weak perturbations are studied in terms of time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory. As an example, we calculate fine-structure corrections to the hydrogen atom, the Zeeman effect, and the bound states of the ionic Hydrogen molecule and He-atom. The Fermi Golden Rule is derived and applied to compute radiation-induced transition rates between eigenstates. Other approximative methods, such as variational and adiabatic approximation, are also discussed. 

Prerequisites 

Quantum mechanics I, Mechanics, Atomic physics, Linear algebra, Probability calculus 

Learning activities and teaching methods

 Wednesdays and Fridays at 8:15-10:00, 8.01-9.04, in total 25 lectures.

 No lectures on week 10, that is, no lectures on weeks 3.03-7.03. 

Exercises:

• Tuesdays at 12:15-14:00, 14.01-8.04, 12 sessions.  
• No exercises on week 10, that is, no exercises on weeks 3.03-7.03. 
• Exercises are published on Fridays and should be returned by next Friday in Moodle.