Quantum Mechanics - Brief Introduction

By : Lawrence E. Murr* Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, The University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA

Abstract

Utilizing the wave-optics equation derived by Maxwell, E. Schröinger inserted the de Broglie relationship to derive a time-independent equation with an embedded wave-particle dualism and energy quantization. This chapter illustrates the Schrödinger equation and its application to electrons composing atoms, an equation of motion for an electron. Simple illustrations examine electron energy quantization in atoms as well as so-called “free” electrons in a volumetric confinement such as an electrical conductor. This brief introduction to quantum mechanical principles as these relate to atomic structure represented by electrons occupying quantized energy states serves as a precursor to understanding matter or materials at the atomic or ionic level.