PHYS 485 :: Physics Illinois :: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

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Welcome to Phys485: Atomic Physics and Quantum Theory

Quantum Physics, founded at the beginning of the last century, revolutionized modern science. Beginning with studies of radiating bodies--stars, heated metals, and more--it has brought new ways of looking at the world; an understanding of atoms, elements, and the complex matter composing the world; insights into superconductivity, cosmic microwave background radiation, and more. From electronics, MRI, solar panels, and quantum computers of the future, it has changed the face of technology. This course will introduce you to the foundations and workings of Quantum Theory, and give you many glimpses of its wonders along the way.

Announcements

The first class is on August 24th, 2026.

Lectures in Loomis 158: 2.00-3.20pm
Instructor: Prof. Smitha Vishveshwara

Please follow email updates throughout the course for important information.

LINKS from this webpage take you to different aspects of the course:

Course description: Course content, syllabus, team, and assignments

Schedule: Weekly schedule--Topics, related reading, homework assignments, solutions

Required Materials: Textbook details and recommended reading

The required textbook for this course is
Quantum Physics, A Fundamental Approach to Modern Physics by Townsend

Additional Material: Reflections on quantum marvels, useful links, fun stuff, quantum news

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Office Hours: Details of weekly office hours--combination of Zoom and in-person

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Gradebook: Regular grade updates based on submitted assignments

Gradescope: THE ESSENTIAL INTERFACE FOR SUBMITTING ASSIGNMENTS

Academic Integrity

All activities in this course are subject to the Academic Integrity rules as described in Article 1, Part 4, Academic Integrity, of the Student Code.