Underpinning the axiomatic formulation of quantum theory presented in this undergraduate textbook is a review of early experiments, a comparison of classical and quantal terminology, a Schroedinger-equation treatment of the one-dimensional quantum box, and a survey of relevant mathematics. Among the many concepts comprehensively discussed are: operators; state vectors and wave functions; experimental observables; classical/quantal connections; and symmetry properties. The theory is applied to a wide variety of systems including the non-relativistic H-atom, external electromagnetic fields, and spin1/2. Collisions are described using wave packets. Various time-dependent and time-independent approximations are discussed; applications include electromagnetic transition rates and corrections to the H-atom energies. The final chapter deals with identical-particle symmetries and their application to the He atom, the Periodic Table and diatomic molecules. There are also brief treatments of advanced subjects such as gauge invariance and hidden variables.
An undergraduate introductory quantum mechanics textbook with a large number of figures and exercises.About the AuthorF. S. Levin received his undergraduate degree from The Johns Hopkins University and his Ph.D. from University of Maryland. Following post-doctoral positions at Rice University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Author-ity, he accepted an appointment in the Physics Department at Brown University, where he remained for 31 years until his retirement in 1998.
Reviews'... [a] sound reliable text, suitable for students with the appropriate abilities and background.' Alastair Rae, The Times Higher Education Supplement
Book InformationISBN 9780521598415
Author F. S. LevinFormat Paperback
Page Count 808
Imprint Cambridge University PressPublisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 1260g
Dimensions(mm) 244mm * 170mm * 41mm