Meets the following requirements: ES QR   

This course is designed to introduce students to the two central ideas of quantum mechanics.  First, the outcomes of experiments cannot be predicted exactly; one can only predict the probability of various outcomes.  And second, these probabilities do not behave like normal probabilities; the probabilities interfere with each other in a manner that has no counterpart in our everyday experience with probabilities. We will develop these ideas by taking a close look at a prototypical quantum system: "spin-1/2" particles.  We will carefully discuss the experimental evidence for quantum mechanics, and we will also look at some of the well-known conundrums of quantum mechanics, such as the two-slit experiment and the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox.  Along the way, students will also be introduced to basic probability theory.  We will conclude by looking at some of the applications and implications of quantum mechanics, such as: the Bohr atom, quantum computation, quantum cryptography, and the photoelectric effect. Quantum mechanics is an exciting, challenging topic which has made an impact in many different fields.  As such, this course is designed to appeal to a wide range of students --- both those whose interests lie outside of science as well as those who are concentrating in the sciences or mathematics.  Students who successfully complete this course will have gained a solid understanding of the central ideas of quantum mechanics.  This understanding should be mathematical and quantitative as well as conceptual.  Students will also gain some experience with scientific reasoning and quantitative problem solving.  Evaluation will be based on class participation, weekly problem sets, and a final presentation or paper.  Some computer work may be required, but no computer experience is necessary.

Level:   Introductory/Intermediate. Prerequisites:  Familiarity with algebra and trigonometry and high school chemistry or physics.  Physics I and II are not prerequisites for this course.  Lab fee: $10.     *QR* *ES*