PHYS 406
Fundamentals of Quantum Theory II
Spring 2021 Syllabus

Instructor: Carlo Segre segre [at] iit.edu
166d Pritzker Science Center 312.567.3498
Office hours:   10:00-11:25 Wednesday or by appointment
Schedule: Posted at http://phys.iit.edu/~segre/phys406/21S/schedule.html
Meetings: Tuesday & Thursday 11:25-12:40, online
URL: http://phys.iit.edu/~segre/phys406/21S/
Textbook: Introduction to Quantum Mechanics, Third Edition, David J. Griffiths & Darrel Schroeter, (Cambridge University Press 2018).
Mathematica: To request a download and get started using Mathematica:
  1. Log into the myIIT portal (http://my.iit.edu)
  2. Select the Training and Support tab
  3. In the Office of Technology Services channel, in the center of the screen, click the link: "NEW! Get Mathematica Software".
Objectives:
  1. Apply time-independent perturbation theory to obtain approximate energies and wavefunctions for a Hamiltonian which is not analytically soluble.
  2. Apply the variational method to obtain an upper bound on the energy for a Hamiltonian that is not analytically soluble.
  3. Apply the WKB approximation to solve for bound states and tunneling for arbitrary potentials.
  4. Apply scattering theory to central potentials.
  5. Apply time dependent perturbation theory to time varying Hamitonians.
  6. Determine the appropriate approximation method for a particular Hamiltonian and apply it.
  7. Construct quantum circuits for basic quantum algorithms.
Material:
  • Time-independent perturbation theory
    • non-degenerate perturbation theory
    • degenerate perturbation theory
    • fine structure
    • Zeeman effect and hyperfine splitting
  • Variational method
    • variational principle
    • ground state of helium
    • hydrogen molecule
  • WKB approximation
    • the classical region
    • tunneling
    • connection fomulas
  • Scattering
    • partial wave analysis
    • phase shifts
    • Born approximation
  • Quantum dynamics
    • two-level systems
    • electromagnetic interactions
    • emission and absorption of radiation
    • spontaneous emission
    • the quantum Zeno paradox
    • Fermi's golden rule
    • Adiabatic approximation
  • Quantum information science
    • the EPR paradox & Bell's inequality
    • the no-clone theorem
    • quantum cryptography
    • quantum teleportation
    • quantum computing
    		•
    Homework:      Homework will be assigned weekly or bi-weekly, due as shown on the schedule. All homework assignments will be collected except as announced. Homework will be due at the beginning of the class period, prior to the start of the lecture unless otherwise stated. No late homework assignments will be accepted unless prior arrangements are made.
    Exams:      There will be three examinations: two midterms and one final examination. Policies for the examinations will be set as the semester progresses.
    Grading:      The percentage weighting for each component are shown below. The final letter grades will be awarded on a scale as shown below. This scale may vary up or down slightly, depending on the difficulty of the examinations.
    Homework 15%
    Midterm Exam 1 20%
    Midterm Exam 2 20%
    Final Project 15%
    Final Exam 30%
    Max % Grade Min %
    100 A 88
    88 B 75
    75 C 62
    62 D 50
    50 E 0
    Class Climate: I strive to provide an inclusive climate in which each student feels welcome and free to question, contributes to the discussion, thrives and learns independent of gender identification, race, sexual orientation, disability, economic background, national origin or religious affiliation. I expect students to contribute actively to this learning environment through open and respectful verbal and written communication with me and the other students.
    Discrimination or harassment of any form will not be tolerated
    I welcome any and all suggestions for improving your learning environment this semester. Feel free to send me a short e-mail if you wish to be called by a name different than that on the official roster. Please also let me know which pronouns you'd like me to use when referring to you this semester - this is not required but it will help me make you as comfortable as possible. I prefer to be addressed as either Dr. or Prof. Segre (he/him).
    I will have my video on during class sessions and I do not expect students to have their video on, however for Office Hours or any kind of meeting I expect that we will both have our video on.
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    Academic Honesty Policy:
    • All students are expected to adhere to the IIT Code of Academic Honesty.
    • The first violation will result in a grade of "zero" for that assignment (exam or quiz). Subsequent violations will result in a failing grade in the course.
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    • Use of cell phones or electronic devices during exams is prohibited.
    Accomodation for Disabilities: Reasonable accommodations will be made for students with documented disabilities. In order to receive accommodations, students must obtain a letter of accommodation from the Center for Disability Resources in 3424 S. State Street, Suite 1C3-2, 312-567-5744 or disabilities@iit.edu.
    Important Dates:
    • Feb 01 - Last Day to Add Courses, Change Sections, etc.
    • Apr 05 - Last Day for Official Withdrawal
    • May 11 - Final Examination on Blackboard