Interactive Quantum Mechanics: Quantum Experiments on the Computer - Softcover

Interquanta (IQ), an interactive program on quantum mechanics allows students to do their own quantum physics experiments on the computer, and to study in 3D color graphics such quantities as complex probability amplitude, eigencalues, scattering cross sections, and more. By experiencing many such computer experiments, students gain a unique, "hands-on" experience in quantum physics which is otherwise difficult to achieve. The graphic features include two-and three-dimensional graphics in the form of static frames and motion pictures.

Students do no programming, and hence need no previous detailed knowledge of this. The program has a very convenient, self-explanatory user interface based on the Java software technology. The book provides a recapitulation of the basic quantum mechanical formula, a manual to the IQ program, and a complete course with more than 300 tested problems. Fully automatic demonstration sessions are provided as introduction to interactive work.

Physics topics covered include free particles, bound states and scattering in various potentials in one and three space dimensions, two-particle systems, properties of special functions of mathematical physics.

Extra Materials available on extras.springer.com
INTERACTIVE QUANTUM MECHANICS allows students to perform their own quantum-physics experiments on their computer, in vivid 3D color graphics. Topics covered include:
·        harmonic waves and wave packets,
·        free particles as well as bound states and scattering in various potentials in one and three dimensions (both stationary and time dependent),
·        two-particle systems, coupled harmonic oscillators,
·        distinguishable and indistinguishable particles,
·        coherent and squeezed states in time-dependent motion,
·        quantized angular momentum,
·        spin and magnetic resonance,
·        hybridization.
For the present edition the physics scope has been widened appreciably. Moreover, INTERQUANTA can now produce user-defined movies of quantum-mechanical situations. Movies can be viewed directly and also be saved to be shown later in any browser.
Sections on special functions of mathematical physics, coordinate systems and units, over 300 class-tested problems with hints for solutions, and a complete user’s guide to the INTERQUANTA program are also included.
No programming or computer experience is needed to use INTERQUANTA. Its Java™-based interface is as simple to use as surfing the Internet. Features of the INTERQUANTA program include:
·        easy-to-use interface allowing fast change of physics parameters,
·        demonstrations for each chapter illustrating new physical concepts and features of INTERQUANTA,
·        electronic help files guiding users through the program,
·        simple printing of user-produced graphics.
INTERQUANTA runs on:
·        personal computers under Windows® and Linux,
·        Macintosh computers under Mac OS X.(INTERQUANTA was tested on 32-bit systems under Windows® 98, NT, 2000, ME, XP, Vista, and 7, under Linux Kernel 2.6.13, and under Mac OS X 10.4.11 for PowerPC and x86 processors. On 64-bit systems it was tested under Windows 7, Linux Kernel 2.6.28, and Mac OS X 10.6.4 for x86_64 processors.)
INTERQUANTA’s virtual “quantum mechanics laboratory” is a uniquely innovative approach to this important but abstract field of physics, and will benefit any student of quantum mechanics.