The Quantum World

Introduction to quantum mechanics for students interested in its relevance to chemistry, molecular biology and energy science. Fundamental and conceptual understanding will be emphasized. The ways that quantum systems are different than classical systems will be examined. Topics include waves, eigenvalue problems, the Schrödinger equation, the uncertainty principle, tunneling, the quantum mechanical particle in a box and the quantum harmonic oscillator. Modern topics may include molecular electronic structure calculations, organic solar cells, photosynthesis, nanoscience, quantum computing and quantum biology.