Advanced Quantum Mechanics: Materials and Photons

Advanced Quantum Mechanics: Materials and Photons is a textbook that emphasizes the importance of advanced quantum mechanics for materials science and experimental techniques that employ photon absorption, emission, or scattering. It covers introductory quantum mechanics and includes appendices on Lagrangian mechanics and the covariant formulation of electrodynamics. It also includes 60 new exercises, illustrations, and material on interpretations of quantum mechanics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 811 pages
Publication date: 11 November 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive textbook, now in its expanded third edition, underscores the vital significance of advanced quantum mechanics in the realm of materials science and all experimental techniques that involve photon absorption, emission, or scattering. To ensure a self-contained and accessible approach, the first seven chapters delve into essential aspects of introductory quantum mechanics, making the subject suitable for a wide audience with diverse academic backgrounds, including those from the Natural Sciences or Engineering. To further enhance inclusivity, appendices introduce Lagrangian mechanics and the covariant formulation of electrodynamics, further broadening the accessibility of the subject.

This third edition boasts numerous enhancements, including 60 new exercises, updated and improved illustrations, and expanded coverage of interpretations of quantum mechanics. Other notable features include an introduction to Lagrangian field theory and an integrated discussion of transition amplitudes with discrete or continuous initial or final states. Once students have grasped the fundamentals of basic quantum mechanics and classical field theory, canonical field quantization becomes a straightforward process. Furthermore, the seamless integration of transition amplitudes naturally leads to the understanding of transition probabilities, decay rates, absorption cross sections, and scattering cross sections, which are crucial for all experimental techniques employing photon probes.

In summary, this textbook serves as an invaluable resource for advanced undergraduate courses and introductory graduate courses, catering to students with diverse academic backgrounds in the fields of materials science and experimental techniques. Its comprehensive coverage, coupled with practical applications, equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their respective disciplines.

Weight: 1258g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030578725
Edition number: 3rd ed. 2020