phy551 - Quantum Structure of Matter (Complete module description)

Attendance: 56 hrs
Self study: 124 hrs

Mechanics, Electrodynamics and Optics, Atomic and Molecular Physics, Mathematical Methods for Physics and Engineering I-III. These courses are mandatory prerequisites.

The students will gain knowledge of the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and their application to the modelling of the equilibrium structure of different atomic, molecular and solid state material systems. The course will enhance their competence to understand and apply basic theoretical concepts in quantum mechanics. The students will learn how to rationalize quantum effects and wave phenomena in a variety of material systems and will become acquainted with strategies how to explain the equilibrium steady-state structure of different types of matter. The students will also be introduced into the nonequilibrium dynamics of selected quantum systems.

The course aims at providing a modern introduction into quantum mechanical foundations of the structure of atomic, molecular and solid state systems. It will bridge the gap between „Atomic and Molecular Physics“ and „Solid State Physics.” The following content will be covered:
1. Introduction into quantum mechanics
2. Quantum theory: techniques and applications
3. Atomic and molecular structure
4. Light-matter interaction
5. Molecular spectroscopy
6. Introduction into quantum dynamics
7. Molecular reaction dynamics
8. Macromolecules and Aggregates
9. Solid State Materials
The course will be held at the level of an advanced course in physical chemistry and requires basic knowledge of quantum mechanics as introduced in “Atomic and Molecular Physics”.

180 min written exam or 45 min oral exam