Introduction to Quantum Mechanics 29:140

29:140

professor: Vincent G.J. Rodgers
office: 513 VAN
telephone: 319-335-1219
email: vincent-rodgers@uiowa.edu
classes: Mon., Wed. and Fri., 11:30 AM-12:20 PM, 301 VAN
office hours: Thur 10:00 AM-11:00; Also by appointment.

Required Textbooks:

A Modern Approach to Quantum Mechanics
J.S. Townsend
University Science Books; Sausalito, CA 2000

Other Resources used in the Course:

Lectures on Quantum Mechanics
Paul A.M. Dirac
Dover Publications: ISBN 0-486-41713-1

Problems in Quantum Mechanics with Solutions
G.L. Squires
Cambridge University Press: ISBN 0-521-37850-8

Homework Suggestions and Class Notes

Course Description:

This course is designed to provide the first serious study of quantum mechanics. Both formal and practical aspects of quantum mechanics will be discussed. The course includes both the Hamiltonian formuation and Path Integral formulation of quantum mechanics. Mathematical tools such as complex analysis, orthogonal polynomials, path integration and linear algebra will be developed as needed throughout the course. You are encouraged to take careful notes since some of the work will not be in the textbook. A three ring binder may be useful.

Grading:

Homework: Suggested problems and a time table for turning it in will be posted on the link above and/or in class. Solutions will be given on some of the problems but only hints and guidelines to others. The homework will be directly related to material that will be present on the exams. Homework is due at the beginning of class (11:30 AM) on the date that is posted. There is a 24 hour grace period and no homework will be accepted after that period expires. Homework will be worth 100 points.
Exams: There will be 3 in class exams worth 100 points each and the Final Exam worth 200 points. All exams will be CLOSED BOOK, and no notes (either electronic or hard copy) will be permitted. The exams will be designed so that the student that works in earnest on the suggested homework problems should get at least the B grade. Partial credit will be limited.

Schedule:
Exam I: 19 Sept, 2008
Exam II: 17 Oct, 2008
Exam III: 21 November, 2008
Final: 16 Dec, 2008 Period 9, High Noon 301 VAN
Class Grade Weights: Your class grade will be computed from three in class exams 600 points. Each exam will be graded so that 52% will be considered just barely passing or the grade C.

A typical translation of percentages into grades will be:

100%-84% A's

83%-68% B's

67%-52% C's

51%-36% D's

below 36% F

General Policy: Attendance at lectures is highly recommended and expected. I typically will not lend my notes to make up material due to absence. Any complaints about this course should be addressed directly to me. If this does not resolve matters then they can be handled by the associate executive officer, Prof. Mary Hall Reno

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and Dept. of Physics and Astronomy Course Policies