Essential Quantum Mechanics

Quantum mechanics - central not only to physics, but also to chemistry, materials science, and other fields - is notoriously abstract and difficult. Essential Quantum Mechanics is a uniquely concise and explanatory book that fills the gap between introductory and advanced courses, between popularizations and technical treatises. By focusing on the fundamental structure, concepts, and methods of quantum mechanics, this introductory yet sophisticated work emphasizes both physical and mathematical understanding. A modern perspective is adopted throughout - the goal, in part, being to gain entry into the world of 'real' quantum mechanics, as used by practicing scientists. With over 60 original problems, Essential Quantum Mechanics is suitable as either a text or a reference. It will be invaluable to physics students as well as chemists, electrical engineers, philosophers, and others whose work is impacted by quantum mechanics, or who simply wish to better understand this fascinating subject.

1. Introduction: Three Worlds. 2. The Quantum Postulates. 3. What is a Quantum State?. 4. The Structure of Quantum States. 5. Operators. 6. Matrix Mechanics. 7. Commutators and Uncertainty Relations. 8. Angular Momentum. 9. The Time-independent Schrodinger Equation. 10. Why is the State Complex?. 11. Time Evolution. 12. Wavefunctions. Appendices.

Dr Gary Bowman Assistant Professor of Physics Department of Physics and Astronomy Northern Arizona University

This book should be useful for undergraduate and graduate students in quantum mechanics, mathematics, materials science and Chemistry.