Problems in Quantum Mechanics With Solutions

Description: Problem solving in physics is not simply a test of understanding of the subject, it is an integral part of learning it. In this book, the key ideas of quantum mechanics are well illustrated by a carefully chosen set of problems complete with detailed, step-by-step solutions. Beginning with a chapter on orders of magnitude, a variety of topics is then covered, including the mathematical foundations of quantum mechanics, Schrodinger's equation, angular momentum, the hydrogen atom, the harmonic oscillator, spin, time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory, the variational method, multielectron atoms, transitions and scattering. Throughout, the physical interpretation or application of certain results is highlighted, thereby providing useful insights into a wide range of systems and phenomena. There is considerable emphasis on applications to atomic, nuclear, and solid-state physics and this book will be invaluable to a wide range of physics undergraduates. Contents: Acknowledgements; Preface for the reader; 1. Numerical values; 2. Fundamentals; 3. Schrodinger equation; 4. Orbital angular momentum, hydrogen atom, harmonic oscillator; 5. Matrices, spin, addition of angular momentum; 6. Approximation methods: time-independent perturbation theory, variational method; 7. Idential particles, multielectron atoms; 8. Time, time-dependent perturbation theory, transitions; 9. Scattering, reactions; 10. Miscellaneous; References; Index.