Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1 from edX

This 9 week course aims to teach quantum mechanics to anyone with a reasonable college-level understanding of physical science or engineering. Quantum mechanics was once mostly of interest to physicists, chemists and other basic scientists. Now the concepts and techniques of quantum mechanics are essential in many areas of engineering and science such as materials science, nanotechnology, electronic devices, and photonics.

This course is a substantial introduction to quantum mechanics and how to use it. It is specifically designed to be accessible not only to physicists but also to students and technical professionals over a wide range of science and engineering backgrounds.

What you'll learn

A conceptual understanding of quantum mechanics
Key physics concepts
Key ideas in using quantum mechanical waves
Mathematics of quantum mechanical waves
Quantum mechanics of systems that change in time
Measurements in quantum mechanics
The uncertainty principle
The hydrogen atom
How to solve real problems

What's inside

Learning objectives

A conceptual understanding of quantum mechanics
Key physics concepts
Key ideas in using quantum mechanical waves
Mathematics of quantum mechanical waves
Quantum mechanics of systems that change in time

Measurements in quantum mechanics
The uncertainty principle
The hydrogen atom
How to solve real problems

A conceptual understanding of quantum mechanics
Key physics concepts
Key ideas in using quantum mechanical waves
Mathematics of quantum mechanical waves
Quantum mechanics of systems that change in time
Measurements in quantum mechanics
The uncertainty principle
The hydrogen atom
How to solve real problems

Syllabus

Introduction to quantum mechanics

How quantum mechanics is important in the everyday world, the bizarre aspects and continuing evolution of quantum mechanics, and how we need it for engineering much of modern technology.

Schroedinger’s wave equation

Getting to Schroedinger’s wave equation. Key ideas in using quantum mechanical waves — probability densities, linearity. The "two slit" experiment and its paradoxes.

Getting "quantum" behavior

The "particle in a box", eigenvalues and eigenfunctions. Mathematics of quantum mechanical waves.

Quantum mechanics of systems that change in time

Time variation by superposition of wave functions. The harmonic oscillator. Movement in quantum mechanics — wave packets, group velocity and particle current.

Measurement in quantum mechanics

Operators in quantum mechanics — the quantum-mechanical Hamiltonian. Measurement and its paradoxes — the Stern-Gerlach experiment.

Writing down quantum mechanics simply

A simple general way of looking at the mathematics of quantum mechanics — functions, operators, matrices and Dirac notation. Operators and measurable quantities. The uncertainty principle.

The hydrogen atom

Angular momentum in quantum mechanics — atomic orbitals. Quantum mechanics with more than one particle. Solving for the the hydrogen atom. Nature of the states of atoms.

How to solve real problems

Approximation methods in quantum mechanics.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the mathematics and concepts of quantum mechanics, which is fundamental to the design of many modern technologies such as nanotechnology and electronics

Taught by David Miller, who has extensive research and teaching experience in quantum mechanics

Suitable for students with a background in physical science or engineering and those seeking a comprehensive understanding of quantum mechanics

Career center

Learners who complete Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Quantum Physicist

Quantum Physicists study the behavior of matter and energy at the microscopic scale, which is key to engineering many aspects of modern technology. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to quantum mechanics, giving you the knowledge and insight to make significant contributions as a Quantum Physicist.

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Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct in-depth studies and investigations, specializing in a particular area of science. Quantum mechanics is becoming increasingly important in diverse research areas where this course provides you with the foundational knowledge you need to start or advance your Research Scientist career.

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Photonics Engineer

Photonics Engineers design, develop, and implement systems that use light to transmit information. A deep understanding of quantum mechanics is fundamental in this field, and this course builds a solid foundation in the key concepts and methodologies you'll need.

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Materials Scientist

This course builds a foundation in quantum mechanics and how to use it, which is essential in Materials Science today. Materials Scientists study the properties of various substances and how they can be used for different applications.

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Nanotechnologist

Nanotechnology involves manipulating matter at the atomic and molecular scale. This course covers quantum mechanics in detail, providing you with the strong conceptual understanding and technical proficiency you need to solve real-world problems in Nanotechnology.

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Quantum Computing Engineer

Quantum Computing Engineers specialize in the design, development, and maintenance of quantum computing systems. This course provides an excellent introduction to the fundamentals of quantum mechanics, preparing you for advanced concepts in quantum computing.

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Technical Writer

This course offers a comprehensive overview of quantum mechanics, enabling you to build a strong foundation in the subject. This can be particularly valuable for Technical Writers who need to understand and convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.

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Science Writer

Understanding quantum mechanics is crucial for Science Writers who aim to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broader audience. This course provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of quantum mechanics, equipping you to explain and interpret scientific advancements effectively.

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Electronic Engineer

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to quantum mechanics, including its principles, applications, and problem-solving techniques. This foundational knowledge is essential for Electronic Engineers involved in the design, development, and testing of electronic devices and systems.

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Optical Engineer

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to quantum mechanics and its applications in optics. By understanding the key principles of quantum mechanics, Optical Engineers gain valuable insights into the behavior of light and its interaction with matter, enabling them to design and develop innovative optical technologies.

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Nuclear Engineer

This course offers a detailed introduction to quantum mechanics, including its principles, applications, and problem-solving techniques. This foundational knowledge is essential for Nuclear Engineers involved in the design, operation, and maintenance of nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities.

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Aerospace Engineer

This course offers a solid foundation in quantum mechanics, which is essential for Aerospace Engineers working on advanced technologies, propulsion systems, and spacecraft design.

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Chemical Engineer

This course offers a detailed introduction to quantum mechanics, including its principles, applications, and problem-solving techniques. This foundational knowledge can be valuable for Chemical Engineers involved in the design, optimization, and control of chemical processes.

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Mechanical Engineer

This course may be useful for Mechanical Engineers interested in advanced materials, nanotechnology, or quantum computing.

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Civil Engineer

This course covers the fundamentals of quantum mechanics, including its applications in materials science and nanotechnology, which are relevant to the development of advanced construction materials and technologies in Civil Engineering.

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Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1

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