This extended and updated second edition course text presents a logical and concise introduction to the basic concepts, applications, and physical meaning of quantum mechanics, fully enabling the reader to engage with advanced applications such as quantum optics, condensed matter theory, quantum computation, and atomic physics.
An initial review of classical mechanics and electromagnetism provides the reader with the context for quantum mechanics. Starting with atomic level experimental results, the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics is derived, with the wave function related to the statistical theory of random variables. Applying the requirement of Galilean invariance yields the Schrodinger equation, and the Copenhagen interpretation of the wave function is discussed.
After numerous basic applications of wave mechanics, including the hydrogen atom and the harmonic oscillator, the text then presents Dirac notation and Hilbert space theory. The latter is combined with the algebra of rotations to develop the quantum mechanical theory of spin and angular momentum. This edition also contains new chapters discussing perturbation theory, path integrals, scattering theory, and quantum entanglement.
