Quantum Physics Lecture Notes
1. Introduction to Quantum Physics
Quantum physics is the branch of physics that studies the behavior of matter and energy at the
smallest scales, such as atoms and subatomic particles. It began in the early 20th century with the
discovery that classical physics could not explain phenomena like the ultraviolet catastrophe or the
photoelectric effect. Key figures in the development of quantum theory include Max Planck, Albert
Einstein, Niels Bohr, and Erwin Schrödinger.
2. Wave-Particle Duality
Wave-particle duality is the concept that every particle or quantum entity exhibits both wave and
particle properties. This was first demonstrated by the double-slit experiment, where particles such
as electrons create an interference pattern typically associated with waves. Louis de Broglie
proposed that particles could be described by wavefunctions, laying the groundwork for wave
mechanics.
De Broglie wavelength: lambda = h / p
Figure 1: Double-slit Experiment Diagram
Quantum Physics Lecture Notes
3. Quantum Mechanics Principles
Wave functions describe the quantum state of a system and contain all the information about the
system. The probability density is given by the square of the wave function's magnitude. The
Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle states that certain pairs of physical properties, like position and
momentum, cannot be simultaneously known to arbitrary precision. Schrödinger's Equation governs
how the quantum state of a physical system changes with time.
Schrödinger's Equation: i*hbar * (partial derivative of psi with respect to t) = H*psi
Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle: Delta x * Delta p >= hbar / 2
Figure 2: Wave Function and Probability Density
Quantum Physics Lecture Notes
4. Quantum States and Operators
In quantum mechanics, the state of a system is represented by a state vector in a complex vector
space called Hilbert space. Operators correspond to physical observables and act on state vectors.
The commutation relations between operators reveal important information about the possible
Quantum Physics Lecture Notes
measurements and their uncertainties.
Commutator of operators: [A, B] = AB - BA
5. Measurement in Quantum Mechanics
The act of measurement in quantum mechanics is described by specific postulates. Upon
measurement, the wave function collapses to an eigenstate of the observable being measured. The
expectation value is the average of an observable's measurements in a given quantum state.
Expectation value: <O> = integral of (psi* * O * psi) d(tau)
6. Quantum Entanglement
Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon where particles become interconnected and the state of
one particle instantaneously influences the state of another, no matter the distance between them.
This leads to the EPR paradox and Bell's Theorem, which challenges local realism and has
profound implications for our understanding of nature.
Figure 3: Quantum Entanglement Diagram
Quantum Physics Lecture Notes
7. Applications of Quantum Physics
Quantum physics has led to groundbreaking technologies and theories. Quantum computing
leverages superposition and entanglement to perform computations much faster than classical
computers. Quantum cryptography offers theoretically secure communication using principles of
quantum mechanics. Quantum teleportation enables the transfer of quantum states from one
location to another.
