Quantum Mechanics: Electrons in the Atom

Abstract

This chapter presents the basic concepts of quantum mechanics that are necessary for the understanding of physical properties of materials and phenomena that underly the operation of electronic devices. It is designed mainly to engineering students with no background in modern physics. Initially we present postulates and arguments that lead to the Schrödinger equation, that is essential to calculate the properties of atoms and materials. Then we apply it to the “motion” of particles in simple potentials and show two important purely quantum effects, the energy quantization in potential wells and the tunnel effect. Finally, we present the solution of the Schrödinger equation for the hydrogen atom, that is key for the understanding of atoms with many electrons and the periodic table of the chemical elements.