What you'll learn

  • The principles of quantum mechanics

  • How quantum mechanics applies to chemistry

  • How to simulate quantum mechanics in Python

Learn More

Course description

Welcome to The Quantum World!

This course is an introduction to quantum chemistry: the application of quantum theory to atoms, molecules, and materials. You’ll learn about wavefunctions, probability, special notations, and approximations that make quantum mechanics easier to apply. You’ll also learn how to use Python to program quantum-mechanical models of atoms and molecules.

This course has serious prerequisites. You will need to be comfortable with college-level chemistry and calculus. Some prior programming experience is also encouraged.

The Quantum World is ideal for:

  • Chemistry majors who want extra material alongside an on-campus course
  • Chemistry majors at an institution that does not offer quantum chemistry
  • Physics or CompSci majors who want to branch out to chemistry
  • Graduate students refreshing on quantum mechanics before their qualifying exams
  • Professional chemists who want to brush up on their skills

Course Outline

Intro to Quantum Mechanics

A quick review of classical mechanics and wave mechanics, plus the postulates that form the basis of quantum theory.

Schrödinger in Many Dimensions

The Schrödinger equation in one, two, and three dimensions, plus the use of the Finite Difference Method that makes computational quantum chemistry possible.

Applications and Phase Space

Infrared spectroscopy, chemical reactions, molecular rotation, and the proper use of phase space.

Atoms

Solving the hydrogen atom, approximating many-electron atoms.

Molecules and Light 

An in-depth look at diatomic molecules, and the interaction of atoms with light.

Variation and Perturbation 

The variational principle, the Hartree-Fock method, self-consistent field theory, and perturbation theory.

Learn More

Instructors

Alán Aspuru-Guzik

Alán Aspuru-Guzik

Professor of Chemistry, Harvard University
Colin Fredericks

Colin Fredericks

Lead Course Developer at HarvardX, Harvard University
Enroll now. Learn More

You may also like

Random walks generated using Python 3
Computer Science
Online

Using Python for Research

Take your introductory knowledge of Python programming to the next level and learn how to use Python 3 for your research.
Price
Free*
Registration Deadline
Available now
CS50W
Programming
Online

CS50's Web Programming with Python and JavaScript

This course picks up where CS50 leaves off, diving more deeply into the design and implementation of web apps with Python, JavaScript, and SQL using frameworks like Django, React, and Bootstrap.
Price
Free*
Duration
12 weeks long
Registration Deadline
Available now