University of Colorado Boulder

Theory of Angular Momentum

University of Colorado Boulder

Theory of Angular Momentum

This course is part of Quantum Mechanics for Engineers Specialization

Wounjhang Park

Instructor: Wounjhang Park

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6,237 already enrolled

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

20 reviews

Intermediate level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

20 reviews

Intermediate level

Recommended experience

1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Specify the quantum states of the electron in a hydrogen atom.

  • Describe spin states quantum mechanically.

  • Solve eigenvalue equations of angular momentum operators.

  • Add general angular momenta.

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Assessments

3 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Quantum Mechanics for Engineers Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 3 modules in this course

In this module we will introduce the course on the theory of angular momentum and then introduce the quantum mechanical definition of orbital momentum. We will then use the spherical harmonics to express the orbital angular momentum eigenstates and use them to describe the hydrogen atom states.

What's included

5 videos6 readings1 assignment2 discussion prompts

In this module, we introduce the general definition of angular momentum operator based on rotation operator. This general definition allows both orbital and spin angular momentum. We then derive the most fundamental property of angular momentum - commutation relations among their Cartesian components. Finally, we discuss the properties of spin-1/2 system.

What's included

4 videos3 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

This module covers the general theory of angular momentum. We start with the commutation relation of angular momentum and define angular momentum eigenstates. We then construct matrix representation of rotation operators using the angular momentum eigenstates as the basis set. Finally, we discuss how to quantum mechanically add angular momenta.

What's included

6 videos3 readings1 assignment1 peer review

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Build toward a degree

This course is part of the following degree program(s) offered by University of Colorado Boulder. If you are admitted and enroll, your completed coursework may count toward your degree learning and your progress can transfer with you.¹

Instructor

Instructor ratings
(5 ratings)
Wounjhang Park
University of Colorado Boulder
6 Courses 62,441 learners

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University of Colorado Boulder

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