Quantum Mechanics - by P J E Peebles (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

The classic textbook on quantum mechanics from Nobel Prize-winning physicist P. J. E. Peebles

This book explains the often counterintuitive physics of quantum mechanics, unlocking this key area of physics for students by enabling them to work through detailed applications of general concepts and ideas. P. J. E. Peebles states general principles first in terms of wave mechanics and then in the standard abstract linear space formalism. He offers a detailed discussion of measurement theory--an essential feature of quantum mechanics--and emphasizes the art of numerical estimates. Along the way, Peebles provides a wealth of physical examples together with numerous problems, some easy, some challenging, but all of them selected because they are physically interesting. Quantum Mechanics is an essential resource for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students in physics.

From the Back Cover

P.J.E. Peebles teaches the often counterintuitive physics of quantum mechanics by working through detailed applications of general ideas. A principal example used in the book is the hyperfine structure of atomic hydrogen (the 21 cm line): the computation of the energy splitting and the induced and spontaneous transition rates. Peebles makes room for such calculations by omitting unneeded elements that can be readily found in the standard treatises after one fully understands the principles of quantum mechanics. To give a flavor of the discovery of the remarkable world picture of quantum mechanics, the author presents a set of examples of physics that are well worth knowing even aside from their historical interest. Then the general principles of quantum mechanics are stated first in terms of wave mechanics and then in the standard abstract linear space formalism. Measurement theory, an essential part of quantum mechanics, is discussed in some detail. The book also emphasizes the art of numerical estimates. And, lastly, a large number of problems are presented, some easy, some challenging, but all selected because they are physically interesting. The book is designed for advanced undergraduates or beginning graduate students in physics.

Review Quotes

"James Peebles, Co-Winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics"

About the Author

P. J. E. Peebles is a Nobel Prize-winning physicist whose books include Cosmology's Century, Principles of Physical Cosmology, and The Large-Scale Structure of the Universe (all Princeton). He is the Albert Einstein Professor of Science Emeritus in the Department of Physics at Princeton University.