Lecture 1: An overview of quantum mechanics. L1.1 Quantum mechanics as a framework. Defining linearity (17:46) L1.2 Linearity and nonlinear theories. Schrödinger’s equation (10:01) L1.3 Necessity of complex numbers (07:38) L1.4 Photons and the loss of determinism (17:20) L1.5 The nature of superposition. Mach-Zehnder interferometer (14:30)

In this quantum physics introduction for beginners, we will explain quantum physics, also called quantum mechanics, in simple terms. Quantum physics is possibly the most fascinating part of physics that exists.

This is the first course in the undergraduate Quantum Physics sequence. It introduces the basic features of quantum mechanics. It covers the experimental basis of quantum physics, introduces wave mechanics, Schrödinger’s equation in a single dimension, and Schrödinger’s equation in three dimensions.

Quantum mechanics is the study of matter and its interactions with energy on the scale of atomic and subatomic particles. By contrast, classical physics explains matter and energy only on a scale familiar to human experience, including the behavior of astronomical bodies such as the moon.

Key Features of Quantum Mechanics: Linearity of the Equations of Motion, Complex Numbers are Essential, Loss of Determinism, Quantum Superpositions, Entanglement (PDF) 2 Experiments with Photons: Mach-Zehder Interferometer, Elitzur-Vaidman Bombs (PDF)

Quantum physics is the study of matter and energy at the most fundamental level. It aims to uncover the properties and behaviors of the very building blocks of nature. While many quantum experiments examine very small objects, such as electrons and photons, quantum phenomena are all around us, acting on every scale.

In this undergraduate textbook, now in its 2nd edition, the author develops the quantum theory from first principles based on very simple experiments: a photon traveling through beam splitters to detectors, an electron moving through magnetic fields, and an atom emitting radiation.

Quantum physics is the branch of physics that deals with small objects and the quantization of various entities, including energy and angular momentum. Just as with classical physics, quantum physics has several subfields, such as mechanics and the study of electromagnetic forces.

The 2.5-hour course introduces participants to the principles and paradoxes that make quantum physics so unique, demystifying core concepts and encouraging participants to think about how quantum technologies might soon impact various fields.

Quantum physics is the branch of physics that deals with small objects and the quantization of various entities, including energy and angular momentum. Just as with classical physics, quantum physics has several subfields, such as mechanics and the study of electromagnetic forces.