Physics 137A

Physics 137A is the first (upper division) semester of Quantum Mechanics. This is a four unit course.

Overview

As a first pass at introductory quantum mechanics for most students, Physics 137A is a truly mind-blowing course which reveals the fundamental weirdness governing the universe. One can expect to learn quantum mechanics through its various formulations to describe the ever elusive “wavefunction,” which governs the inherently probabilistic dynamics of quantum systems. Using the all-important Schrödinger equation, Physics 137A explores what happens to particles in free space, infinite wells, and quadratic “harmonic oscillator” potentials, among others. The class uses lessons from these toy models to derive the level scheme of the hydrogen atom from basic principles. In addition, the class explores the uncanny valley produced by the at-once intuitive and elusive concept of spin, a discussion which yields to an example of quantum entanglement.

Prerequisites

Physics 5A, Physics 5B, and Physics 5C or Physics 7A, Physics 7B, and Physics 7C.

Student Comments

“Feynman famously said ‘I think I can safely say that nobody understands quantum mechanics.’ You should ignore this quote despite its famous source, just as you should ignore the sci-fi technobabble in which quantum mechanics is invoked to explain all manner of bizarre things. Both encourage a view of quantum mechanics as magic that is utterly wrong-headed. In fact, quantum mechanics is rigorous and one of the best-understood areas of physics—otherwise it would not be part of the standard undergraduate curriculum! You will not be hopelessly confused, nor will you unlock the mysteries of the universe. Mostly you’ll do a lot of linear algebra and a lot of integrals, and you’ll solve a few differential equations. Other than having this correct mindset that quantum mechanics is rigorous understandable science and not a magic black box, my main advice to a new student planning to take 137a is to make sure you know your linear algebra. If you’ve taken something like math 110, you’re in great shape, but you can get by with math 54. Also, get access to Wolfram Mathematica if you don’t already have it—it will make your life much easier. (Professors can sometimes get the physics department to provide a license to the students in a class, so ask about this!)” – Physics 137A GSI