Atomic and Molecular Physics

Education facts

Code: FK5023

One- and multi-electron atoms are studied quantum mechanically, where the effects due to spin, the fine-structure, and the hyperfine structure are also taken into consideration. Time-dependent perturbation theory is discussed in detail, and used to describe both the fine-structure and Zeeman effects in atoms. The physical basis for the binding in diatomic molecules and simple polyatomic molecules is discussed. The fundamental approximations which underpin the theoretical descriptions of molecules are studied. The variational principle is used to calculate atomic and molecular wave functions. The interaction of atoms and molecules with electromagnetic radiation is studied and the selection rules governing these interactions discussed.

Entry requirements

For access to the course knowledge and skills equivalent to the following courses is required: - Mathematics for Natural Sciences I, 15 hp (MM2002) - Mathematics for Natural Sciences II, 15 hp (MM4001) - Mathematics II - Analysis, part A, 7.5 hp (MM5010) - Mathematics II - Analysis, part B, 7.5 hp (MM5011) - Classical Physics, 30 hp (FK3014) - Quantum Mechanics, 7.5 hp (FK5020) - Programming, numerical methods and statistics for physicists, 15 hp (FK4026) or both of the courses Physics with digital tools, 7.5 hp (FK4025) och Probability theory and statistics for teachers, 7.5 hp (MT1011) - Electromagnetism and waves, 7.5 hp (FK5019)

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Atomic and Molecular Physics

  Stockholm University

  Start date: 31 August 2026

  End date: 2 November 2026

  Pace of study: 50 %