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There are 3 modules in this course
Course 2 of Statistical Thermodynamics presents an introduction to quantum mechanics at a level appropriate for those with mechanical or aerospace engineering backgrounds. Using a postulatory approach that describes the steps to follow, the Schrodinger wave equation is derived and simple solutions obtained that illustrate atomic and molecular structural behavior. More realistic behavior is also explored along with modern quantum chemistry numerical solution methods for solving the wave equation.
Module 1presents an introduction to quantum mechanics at a level appropriate for those with mechanical or aerospace engineering backgrounds. Using a postulatory approach that describes the steps to follow, the Schrodinger wave equation is derived and it is showen that the time dependence can be separated and a stationary wave equation results.
What's included
4 videos5 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt
Show info about module content
4 videos•Total 35 minutes
Quantum Mechanics and the Structure of Matter•9 minutes
A Short History of Quantum Mechanics•10 minutes
The Postulates of Quantum Mechanics•9 minutes
The Stationary Wave Equation•7 minutes
5 readings•Total 41 minutes
Course Updates and Accessibility Support•1 minute
Quantum Mechanics and the Structure of Matter•10 minutes
A Short History of Quantum Mechanics•10 minutes
The Postulates of Quantum Mechanics•10 minutes
The Stationary Wave Equation•10 minutes
1 assignment•Total 10 minutes
Problem 4.1•10 minutes
1 discussion prompt•Total 10 minutes
Problems 4.2-4.7•10 minutes
Simple Solutions of the Wave Equation
Module 2•2 hours to complete
Module details
In module 2 we solve the stationary wave equation for several simple systems. These include the particle in a box, the rigid rotator, the harmonic oscillator, and the hydrogenic atom. These simple solutions form the basisi for discussing real atomic and molecular behavior in the next module.
What's included
4 videos4 readings1 discussion prompt
Show info about module content
4 videos•Total 46 minutes
The Particle in a Box•10 minutes
Internal Motion: Radial and Angular Motion•8 minutes
The Hydrogenic Atom•9 minutes
The Diatomic Molecule•18 minutes
4 readings•Total 40 minutes
The Particle in a Box•10 minutes
Internal Motion: Radial and Angular Motion•10 minutes
The Hydrogenic Atom•10 minutes
The Diatomic Molecule•10 minutes
1 discussion prompt•Total 10 minutes
Problem 4.12•10 minutes
Real Atomic and Molecular Behavior
Module 3•2 hours to complete
Module details
In Module 3 we explore the more realistic behavior of atoms and molecules. We also introduce and discuss numerical methods for solving the wave equation.
What's included
6 videos6 readings2 discussion prompts
Show info about module content
6 videos•Total 59 minutes
Real Atoms•7 minutes
The Pauli Exclusion Principle•4 minutes
Multi-Electron Atoms•13 minutes
Diatomic Molecules: Real Behavior•9 minutes
Polyatomic Molecules•13 minutes
Numerical Methods for Solving the Wave Equation•13 minutes
6 readings•Total 60 minutes
Real Atoms•10 minutes
The Pauli Exclusion Principle•10 minutes
Multi-Electron Atoms•10 minutes
Diatomic Molecules: Real Behavior•10 minutes
Polyatomic Molecules•10 minutes
Numerical Methods for Solving the Wave Equation•10 minutes
2 discussion prompts•Total 30 minutes
Problem 4.13•15 minutes
Problem 4.14•15 minutes
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