PHY472: Advanced Quantum Mechanics

Lecture times: TBA.
Problem class: TBA.

In this course, we will build quantum mechanics from the ground up, starting with linear vector spaces and Hilbert space. We introduce the postulates of quantum mechanics and explore important topics in modern quantum mechanics such as mixed states, decoherence, entanglement, and quantum teleportation. We also give a thorough treatment of spin and orbital angular momentum. In the second part, we look at the relativistic extension of quantum mechanics. We give the two relativistic versions of the Schrödinger equation (the Klein-Gordon equation and the Dirac equation), and give the equations of motion for a relativistic electron in a classical electromagnetic field. Finally, we will briefly introduce Feynman diagrams and (gauge) quantum field theories.

Lecture notes (80 pages, 2.2 MB)

There will be no assessed homework exercises, and the assessment will be via a two-hour written exam. I will organise weekly problem classes, the time of which will be determined in the first lecture. Answers to the exercises in the notes will appear below, after the corresponding problem class has taken place.

Answers to Exercises Section 1

Answers to Exercises Section 2

Answers to Exercises Section 3

Answers to Exercises Section 4

Answers to Exercises Section 5

Answers to Exercises Section 6

Answers to Exercises Section 7

Answers to Exercises Section 8

Answers to Exercises Section 9