Introduction to quantum physics

This course is a simplified introduction to quantum physics.
It begins with an historical overview of the beginnings of quantum mechanics: atomic emission line spectra, black-body radiation (the logic of this name will be explained), the photoelectric effect, etc.
A simplified presentation of Fourier transforms will enable us to understand the link between spectral line width and time evolution,
and, further on, to understand Heisenberg's inequalities.
An important part of the course will be devoted to matter waves, through the Schrödinger equation, in very simple special cases.
Finally, we'll conclude with a few aspects of magnetism (necessarily quantum).

1. Impart a culture of modern physics: photons, matter waves, coherence, magnetism, atoms, etc...
2. Introduce and use the Fourier transform through the optical spectrum and EM waves on the one hand, and through matter waves and wave packets on the other.
3. Provide basic calculations for modern physics problems.

Classic mechanics

Wave physics

Complex, differential and integral calculus,

Ordinary^2nd-order differential equations with constant coefficients

100% CT

1. The photon, the first quantum :

- Planck's Law (black-body radiation),

- Line spectra

- Photoelectric effect

1. Fourier transform, wave packets
2. Matter waves

- Schrödinger equation (1D)

- potential steps (reflection, transmission)

- potential barriers (tunnel effect)

- potential well (containment)

1. Heisenberg inequalities
2. Magnetism (spin)

CM: 6 p.m.

TD: 18 h