This course is part of the Quantum Mechanics for Engineers Specialization

Wounjhang Park

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Part of the Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree

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Quantum Mechanics for Engineers SpecializationUniversity of Colorado Boulder

About this Course

This course can also be taken for academic credit as ECEA xxxx, part of CU Boulder’s Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree.
This course teaches commonly used approximation methods in quantum mechanics. They include time-independent perturbation theory, time-dependent perturbation theory, tight binding method, variational method and the use of finite basis set. In each case, a specific example is given to clearly show how the method works. 

At the end of this course learners will be able to:
1. use time-dependent perturbation theory to obtain first- and second -order corrections to energies and wavefunctions,
2. use time-dependent perturbation theory and obtain transition rates, and
3. use tight binding method, variational method and finite basis set to obtain approximate solutions of various quantum mechanics problems.

Flexible deadlines

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Shareable Certificate

Earn a Certificate upon completion

100% online

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Course 3 of 3 in the

Quantum Mechanics for Engineers Specialization

Intermediate Level

Undergraduate-level calculus, differential equations and linear algebra

Approx. 14 hours to complete

English

Subtitles: English

What you will learn

Distinguish non-degenerate and degenerate cases and use appropriate methods.

Perform calculations using the time-independent perturbation theory.

Describe absorption and stimulated emission processes.

Obtain approximate solutions using the variational method.

Skills you will gain

EnergyEnergy LevelPerturbation TheoryQuantum Mechanics

Flexible deadlines

Reset deadlines in accordance to your schedule.

Shareable Certificate

Earn a Certificate upon completion

100% online

Start instantly and learn at your own schedule.

Course 3 of 3 in the

Quantum Mechanics for Engineers Specialization

Intermediate Level

Undergraduate-level calculus, differential equations and linear algebra

Approx. 14 hours to complete

English

Subtitles: English

Instructor

Wounjhang Park

Professor

Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering

27,265 Learners

6 Courses

Offered by

University of Colorado Boulder

CU-Boulder is a dynamic community of scholars and learners on one of the most spectacular college campuses in the country. As one of 34 U.S. public institutions in the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), we have a proud tradition of academic excellence, with five Nobel laureates and more than 50 members of prestigious academic academies.

Start working towards your Master's degree

This course is part of the 100% online Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from University of Colorado Boulder. If you are admitted to the full program, your courses count towards your degree learning.

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Syllabus - What you will learn from this course

Week

Week 1

5 hours to complete

Time-independent Perturbation Theory

In this module we will introduce the course on approximation methods commonly used in quantum mechanics and then discuss time-independent perturbation theory. We will first discuss non-degenerate perturbation theory and derive useful formulas for the first- and second-order corrections. We will then discuss degenerate perturbation theory. We will also discuss specific examples where the various perturbation methods are used - Stark effect, fine structure and Zeeman effect.

5 hours to complete

8 videos (Total 107 min), 3 readings, 1 quiz

Week

Week 2

5 hours to complete

Time-dependent Perturbation Theory

In this module, we will introduce interaction picture and derive time evolution equations. After discussing a simple but illuminating example of two-state system, we develop time-dependent perturbation theory and discuss the probability of transitions between quantum states induced by external perturbation.

5 hours to complete

5 videos (Total 71 min), 3 readings, 2 quizzes

Week

Week 3

4 hours to complete

Other Approximation Methods

This module covers several non-perturbative approximation methods. They are the tight binding method, variational method and the use of finite basis set.

4 hours to complete

3 videos (Total 45 min), 3 readings, 1 quiz

About the Quantum Mechanics for Engineers Specialization

This Specialization is intended for engineers seeking to acquire fundamental understanding of quantum mechanics which are the basis of modern electrical, mechanical and quantum engineering. Through 3 courses, you will learn (1) basic concepts such as superposition and entanglement of quantum states, measurement in quantum mechanics and uncertainty principle, (2) mathematical tools needed to describe and manipulate quantum states, (3) advanced theory of angular momentum and (4) approximation methods widely applicable in many fields.

Frequently Asked Questions

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The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
Is financial aid available?
Yes, Coursera provides financial aid to learners who cannot afford the fee. Apply for it by clicking on the Financial Aid link beneath the "Enroll" button on the left. You'll be prompted to complete an application and will be notified if you are approved. You'll need to complete this step for each course in the Specialization, including the Capstone Project. Learn more.

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Approximation Methods