Lectures on Quantum Mechanics

Nobel Laureate Steven Weinberg combines exceptional physical insight with his gift for clear exposition, to provide a concise introduction to modern quantum mechanics, in this fully updated second edition of his successful textbook. Now including six brand new sections covering key topics such as the rigid rotator and quantum key distribution, as well as major additions to existing topics throughout, this revised edition is ideally suited to a one-year graduate course or as a reference for researchers. Beginning with a review of the history of quantum mechanics and an account of classic solutions of the Schrodinger equation, before quantum mechanics is developed in a modern Hilbert space approach, Weinberg uses his remarkable expertise to elucidate topics such as Bloch waves and band structure, the Wigner-Eckart theorem, magic numbers, isospin symmetry, and general scattering theory. Problems are included at the ends of chapters, with solutions available for instructors at www.cambridge.org/9781107111660. Review of previous edition: 'Lectures on Quantum Mechanics must be considered among the very best books on the subject for those who have had a good undergraduate introduction. The integration of clearly explained formalism with cogent physical examples is masterful, and the depth of knowledge and insight that Weinberg shares with readers is compelling.' Mark Srednicki, Physics Today Review of previous edition: 'Steven Weinberg, a Nobel Laureate in Physics, has written an exceptionally clear and coherent graduate-level textbook on modern quantum mechanics. This book presents the physical and mathematical formulations of the theory in a concise and rigorous manner. The equations are all explained step-by-step, and every term is defined. He presents a fresh, integrated approach to teaching this subject with an emphasis on symmetry principles. Weinberg demonstrates his finesse as an excellent teacher and author.' Barry R. Masters, Optics and Photonics News Review of previous edition: 'Perhaps what distinguishes this book from the competition is its logical coherence and depth, and the care with which it has been crafted. Hardly a word is misplaced and Weinberg's deep understanding of the subject matter means that he leaves no stone unturned: we are asked to accept very little on faith ... it is for the reader to follow Weinberg in discovering the joys of quantum mechanics through a deeper level of understanding: I loved it!' Jeff Forshaw, CERN Courier Review of previous edition: 'An instant classic ... clear, beautifully structured and replete with insights. This confirms [Weinberg's] reputation as not only one of the greatest theoreticians of the past fifty years, but also one of the most lucid expositors. Pure joy.' The Times Higher Education SupplementPreface; Notation; 1. Historical introduction; 2. Particle states in a central potential; 3. General principles of quantum mechanics; 4. Spin; 5. Approximations for energy eigenstates; 6. Approximations for time-dependent problems; 7. Potential scattering; 8. General scattering theory; 9. The canonical formalism; 10. Charged particles in electromagnetic fields; 11. The quantum theory of radiation; 12. Entanglement; Author index; Subject index.