Quantum Mechanics: 1D Scattering and Central Potentials

In this quantum physics course you will learn the basic concepts of scattering – phase-shifts, time delays, Levinson's theorem, and resonances – in the simple context of one-dimensional problems. We discuss barrier penetration and the Ramsauer-Townsend effect. We then turn to the study of angular momentum and the motion of particles in three-dimensional central potentials. We learn about the radial equation and study the case of the hydrogen atom in detail.

This is the final course in a series which includes:

• Quantum Mechanics: Wavefunctions, Operators, and Expectation Values
• Quantum Mechanics: Quantum Physics in 1D Potentials
• Quantum Mechanics: 1D Scattering and Central Potentials

The series is based on MIT 8.04: Quantum Mechanics I. At MIT, 8.04 is the first of a three-course sequence in Quantum Mechanics, a cornerstone in the education of physics majors that prepares them for advanced and specialized studies in any field related to quantum physics. This online course follows the on-campus version and will be equally rigorous.

After completing the 8.04x series, you will be ready to tackle the Mastering Quantum Mechanics course series on edX, 8.05x.