ABSTRACT

Quantum mechanics is a general theory of the motions, structures, properties, and behaviors of particles of atomic and subatomic dimensions. While quantum mechanics was created in the first third of the twentieth century by a handful of theoretical physicists working on a limited number of problems, it has further developed and is now applied by a great number of people working on a vast range of problems in wide areas of science and technology.

Basic Molecular Quantum Mechanics introduces quantum mechanics by covering the fundamentals of quantum mechanics and some of its most important chemical applications: vibrational and rotational spectroscopy and electronic structure of atoms and molecules. Thoughtfully organized, the author builds up quantum mechanics systematically with each chapter preparing the student for the more advanced chapters and complex applications. Additional features include the following:

  • This book presents rigorous and precise explanations of quantum mechanics and mathematical proofs.
  • It contains qualitative discussions of key concepts with mathematics presented in the appendices.
  • It provides problems and solutions at the end of each chapter to encourage understanding and application.

This book is carefully written to emphasize its applications to chemistry and is a valuable resource for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students specializing in chemistry, in related fields such as chemical engineering and materials science, and in some areas of biology.

chapter 1|25 pages

Toward Quantum Mechanics

chapter 2|27 pages

Mathematics for Quantum Mechanics

chapter 4|18 pages

Wave Functions and Experimental Outcomes

chapter 7|39 pages

The Harmonic Oscillator

chapter 10|40 pages

The Hydrogen-Like Atoms

chapter 11|32 pages

Approximation Methods

chapter 12|47 pages

Electrons in Atoms