Lecture 2: Atoms and quantum mechanics, a gentle introduction

Further reading

  • There are a couple of very good web-sites out there. Physics 2000: Science Trek http://www.colorado.edu/physics/2000/science_trek.html has an excellent introduction to the quantum atom, including interactive applets which let you play with spectral lines, the periodic table, etc. The discussion of how electrons are arranged in atoms is particularly good (starts at http://www.colorado.edu/physics/2000/elements_as_atoms/index.html).
  • There's a little program which shows you the spectrum for any element at http://jersey.uoregon.edu/elements/Elements.html
  • A good site for the nucleus in particular is "Guide to the Nuclear Wallchart" at http://www.lbl.gov/abc/wallchart/guide.html.
  • The "Standard Model" of particle physics is summarised at http://particleadventure.org/particleadventure/frameless/chart.html

    Sources for images used:

    dividing_line

    Last updated 10 March 2008

    Please let me know of any problems with these pages: H.Johnston@physics.usyd.edu.au