Introduction to Modern Physics

I.      Distinction between Classical and Modern Physics
II.     The origins of Old Quantum Theory

(a)   Particle-wave duality of light and the concept of photon (blackbody radiation, photoelectric effect, Compton effect). Key-experiments and explanations
(b)   Early atomic models. Atomic spectra and the Bohr model. The Frank-Hertz experiment
(c)    Wave-particle duality. Planck’s constant and the Bohr-Wilson-Sommerfeld quantization rules
(d)   Critical review of Old Quantum Theory

III.    The principles of Modern Quantum Mechanics

(a)   Schroedinger equation. The physical meaning  of the wave function
(b)   Applications to simple one-dimensional systems
(c)    Introduction to three-dimensional examples. Degenerate states
(d)   Qualitative presentation of the basic principles of Quantum Mechanics. Measurement in Quantum Mechanics.

IV.   Qualitative  Schroedinger  description of  one-electron atoms. Comparison to Bohr model. Introduction of spin. Introduction  to addition of angular momenta
V.     Qualitative description of many-electron atoms. The Periodic Table of the elements
VI.   Qualitative  introduction to Moelecular Structure

Practical applications of Modern Quantum Mechanics