Quantum Mechanics (PHYC90007)
Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
Overview
| Availability | Semester 1 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
Quantum Mechanics introduces a dramatically new and rich understanding of the universe. In addition to providing a much deeper insight into the world of atoms and subatomic particles than afforded by classical Newtonian physics, Quantum Mechanics underpins advances in science across all disciplines, from molecular biology to astrophysics. This subject provides a rigorous mathematical formalism for advanced quantum mechanics, laying the foundation for further fundamental theoretical physics and research-level experimental physics in frontier areas such as quantum communication and quantum computation.
The subject describes the Hilbert-space formulation of quantum wave mechanics, including density matrix descriptions for single and joint Hilbert space systems; symmetries and conservation laws including rotations and angular momentum; the path integral approach; perturbation theory applications, and scattering theory.
Intended learning outcomes
On successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- apply advanced quantum mechanics principles in a range of contexts of relevance in modern physics;
- use the Hilbert-space formalism of modern quantum mechanics, with bra-ket and matrix notations, and symmetries and related conservation laws on the solution of graduate-level quantum mechanics problems;
- demonstrate the use of density matrices for single and joint Hilbert spaces;
- demonstrate the difference between pure and mixed states, and entanglement and their relevance in quantum mechanics;
- understand the basic formalism of path integrals;
- apply perturbation methods to physical systems and thus predict measurable outcomes; and
- apply the concepts of scattering theory.
Generic skills
At the completion of this subject, students should have gained the ability to:
- analyse and solve problems by applying simple fundamental laws to more complex situations;
- apply abstract concepts to real-world problems;
- use approximations to solve relatively complicated problems;
- participate as an effective member of a group in discussions and collaborative assignments;
- manage time effectively in order to be prepared for group discussions and undertake assignments and exams.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Eligibility and requirements
Prerequisites
All of
| Code | Name | Teaching period | Credit Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHYC30018 | Quantum Physics | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
| PHYC30016 | Electrodynamics | Semester 1 (On Campus - Parkville) |
12.5 |
Or equivalent.
Corequisites
None
Non-allowed subjects
None
Inherent requirements (core participation requirements)
The University of Melbourne is committed to providing students with reasonable adjustments to assessment and participation under the Disability Standards for Education (2005), and the Assessment and Results Policy (MPF1326). Students are expected to meet the core participation requirements for their course. These can be viewed under Entry and Participation Requirements for the course outlines in the Handbook.
This subject requires all students to actively and safely participate in laboratory activities. Students who feel their disability may impact upon their participation are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Subject Coordinator and Student Equity and Disability Support.
Further details on how to seek academic adjustments can be found on the Student Equity and Disability Support website: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/student-equity/home
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Assessment
| Description | Timing | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
Assignment totalling up to 18 pages of written work (due at the end of week 5)
| Week 5 | 10% |
Assignment totalling up to 18 pages of written work (due at the end of week 11)
| Week 11 | 10% |
One written examination
| During the examination period | 80% |
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Dates & times
- Semester 1
Principal coordinator Katie Auchettl Mode of delivery On Campus (Parkville) Contact hours 36 hours comprising 3 one-hour lectures/week Total time commitment 170 hours Teaching period 3 March 2025 to 1 June 2025 Last self-enrol date 14 March 2025 Census date 31 March 2025 Last date to withdraw without fail 9 May 2025 Assessment period ends 27 June 2025 Semester 1 contact information
Email: msc@physics.unimelb.edu.au
Time commitment details
170 hours
What do these dates mean
Visit this webpage to find out about these key dates, including how they impact on:
- Your tuition fees, academic transcript and statements.
- And for Commonwealth Supported students, your:
- Student Learning Entitlement. This applies to all students enrolled in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
Subjects withdrawn after the census date (including up to the ‘last day to withdraw without fail’) count toward the Student Learning Entitlement.
Last updated: 4 March 2025
Further information
- Texts
- Related Handbook entries
This subject contributes to the following:
Type Name Course Ph.D.- Engineering Course Master of Science (Physics) Course Doctor of Philosophy - Engineering Course Master of Philosophy - Engineering Informal specialisation Physics - Available through the Community Access Program
About the Community Access Program (CAP)
This subject is available through the Community Access Program (also called Single Subject Studies) which allows you to enrol in single subjects offered by the University of Melbourne, without the commitment required to complete a whole degree.
Please note Single Subject Studies via Community Access Program is not available to student visa holders or applicants
Entry requirements including prerequisites may apply. Please refer to the CAP applications page for further information.
- Available to Study Abroad and/or Study Exchange Students
Last updated: 4 March 2025