The course reviews the basic quantum phenomena introduced in the first semester of Quantum Mechanics, such as the propagation and interference of matter waves, discussing their implementation in ultra-cold atom systems and Bose-Einstein condensates. The aim is twofold: to deepen the knowledge of the most important quantum phenomena; introduce the principles on which historical experiments and some Quantum Technologies are based.
Lecture notes and other material, provided by the teachers.
Learning Objectives
Knowledge
Deepening of basic phenomena in Quantum Mechanics and their contextualization in atomic systems.
Acquired skills and abilities
Analysis of basic quantum phenomena in realistic physical systems. Numerical resolution of the Schroedinger equation for non-interacting particles.
Prerequisites
Having attended the first semester of Quantum Mechanics.
Teaching Methods
Lectures and seminars on selected topics. Total number of hours: 48
Further information
Reception by appointment: giovanni.modugno@unifi.it and nicola.poli@unifi.it
Type of Assessment
Oral exam, based on in-depth presentation and subsequent discussion of a selected topic in agreement with the teachers, followed by a check of the whole program.
Course program
Preliminary program:
• Diffraction and interference of waves of matter. Analogy between Schroedinger's equation and optics, discussion of the first interference experiments with atoms.
• Harmonic oscillator and free propagation, with application to a gas of atoms.
• The Bose-Einstein condensate as a coherent matter wave. Discussion of the first experimental observations.
• Quantum tunneling, with application to a double potential well. Population and phase fluctuations, and their first experimental observations.