Quantum Physics - (Graduate Texts in Contemporary Physics) by Roger G Newton (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Compared to other books, there is a diminished emphasis on particles as the fundamental physical entities and a stronger stress on fields, which in turn give rise to particles. And in contrast to most other texts, the early history of quantum mechanics is ignored; the treatment starts out directly, with the basic assumptions of the theory.

Review Quotes

From the reviews:

"I find Newton's text comprehensive but terse... Within only 400 pages, it covers topics from such basics as the harmonic oscillator to the Dirac equation. One finds all the major areas of a standard first-year graduate curriculum... The treatments are logical and accurate, but explanations are minimal... "The book has its high points. A section on interaction of radiation with matter is exceptionally good because the groundwork for quantization of the electromagnetic field was laid earlier. That allows for an elegant treatment of spontaneous emission. Several good exercises end each chapter, and concise, well-written appendices end the book... "I would recommend Newton's book more as a reference than as a general text..." PHYSICS TODAY

"There are many texts on quantum mechanics and one may ask if we need another. ... this book ... tackles the subject in a slightly different way. ... The great advantage ... is that the author has been able to tackle a wider range of topics. Realistic examples, even those familiar introductory examples, are done more carefully and precisely than is normal. ... I would strongly recommend lecturers and students of second or advanced quantum mechanics courses to take a look at this book." (T. Evans, Contemporary Physics, Vol. 45 (3), 2004)

"Roger Newton has had a distinguished career in physics, with several significant contributions to scattering theory and high-energy physics. ... His new book, Quantum Physics: A text for Graduate Students, faces stiff competition in an area already crowded with excellent texts. ... I find Newton's text comprehensive ... . Several good exercises end each chapter, and concise, well-written appendices end the book. ... I would recommend Newton's book ... ." (N. G. Deshpande, Physics Today, August, 2003)

"Even with the extensive amount of books and monographs on quantum mechanics, the present text has a special place. It is original and presents typical material that quite often appears in the first quantum mechanical course ... in totally different 'light'. ... this volume should not miss in any serious library having a section on quantum mechanics and quantum field theory." (Kris Heyde, Physicalia, Vol. 25 (4), 2003)

"Newton provides a fresh approach to the foundations and interpretation of quantum physics. ... There are problems and exercises throughout the text and at the end of each chapter." (C. M. Savage, The Physicist, Vol. 40 (2), 2003)