In this course, we ask the question: How can we apply the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics to systems beyond the hydrogen atom and to systems that interact with electromagnetic radiation? We start by recapping the structure of the solution of the hydrogen atom and define the ingredients that are needed to describe systems that consist of more than one electron and proton: coupling of angular momenta, symmetries, and particle-particle interactions. The latter are neglected in this course and will be introduced elsewhere. The former two and their intimate relationship with each other will be discussed in detail. This will then allow us to gain an approximate understanding of the periodic table of elements and even of the electronic structure of some molecules.
We will then use the concept of perturbation theory (time-independent and time-dependent) to understand effects like the fine structure of the hydrogen atom and how matter interacts with electromagnetic radiation, deriving Fermi’s famous Golden Rule. Finally, we will look at scattering problems and approximate ways for solving them with many important applications in diverse areas such as X-rays and particle physics.

Assessment
The course will be assessed by a written test.
The homework for Applied Quantum Mechanics will be graded. The final grade for the course will be calculated via G = H+ E(10-H)/10 where G is the course grade, H is the grade for the homework (maximum 2 points) and E is the grade for the exam (maximum 10 points).