QM Math: Multivariable Calc for Physics

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Alem2000
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical prerequisites for studying quantum mechanics, specifically focusing on the necessity of multivariable calculus and other mathematical tools. Participants explore the broader context of mathematics in physics education and the potential benefits of learning programming tools like MATLAB.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether multivariable calculus alone is sufficient for quantum mechanics, suggesting that a broader mathematical foundation is necessary.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of linear algebra alongside calculus, advocating for a comprehensive understanding of mathematics for physics.
  • A participant warns against the notion of isolating the mathematical tools needed for quantum mechanics from other areas of physics, such as classical mechanics and electromagnetism.
  • There are recommendations for specific mathematical physics books, with one participant expressing a personal attachment to certain texts.
  • Concerns are raised about the cost of textbooks, with a mention of more affordable options from certain publishers.
  • Discussion includes the potential value of taking a separate MATLAB course for physics majors, with mixed opinions on its necessity and relevance to advanced numerical techniques.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the sufficiency of multivariable calculus for quantum mechanics, with some advocating for additional mathematical knowledge and others emphasizing the importance of programming skills. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact prerequisites and the role of MATLAB in physics education.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the importance of a well-rounded mathematical education for physics, but there is no consensus on the specific prerequisites for quantum mechanics or the necessity of MATLAB courses.

Alem2000
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I was wondering how much math you need to know to do quantum mechanics? Is multivariable calculus sufficient?
 
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Linear Algebra strikes me as being pretty important too. In any case, the more math, the better
 
Alem2000 said:
I was wondering how much math you need to know to do quantum mechanics? Is multivariable calculus sufficient?

It is dangerous to think that (1) one can narrow down what "tools" one needs for doing quantum mechanics and (2) that one can just learn QM alone without bother about the other physics areas such as classical mechanics and classical E&M.

What you should learn is the mathematics to do physics. It is the only way that I know of to do and start to understand QM. There are many books (even one I recommend without hesitation in one of my journal entry) that cover mathematical physics. Pick one up!

Zz.
 
WOW thanks a whole lot ZAPPERZ! Your journals are very helpful. I went and checked out the book on amazon and its a bit expensive but ill try and get it for christmas. What I ment to ask in this thread was what is the prerequisit math for quantum mechanics, you know how the say to take electricity and magnetism you should have taken integral calculus and currently should be taking multivariable. By the way what about MATLAB for physics majors? My counselor thought it would be a good idea for me to take a sperate course in matlab(although it is not required), I think it is a great idea, what do you think?
 
Last edited:
Alem2000 said:
WOW thanks a whole lot ZAPPERZ! Your journals are very helpful. I went and checked out the book on amazon and its a bit expensive but ill try and get it for christmas. What I ment to ask in this thread was what is the prerequisit math for quantum mechanics, you know how the say to take electricity and magnetism you should have taken integral calculus and currently should be taking multivariable. By the way what about MATLAB for physics majors? My counselor thought it would be a good idea for me to take a sperate course in matlab(although it is not required), I think it is a great idea, what do you think?

Unfortunately, a lot of textbooks are expensive (at least here in the US), unless they are published by Dover. If it's any consolation, I did not recommend that Boas text lightly, and I fully expect it to be buried with me when I die (along with Mattuck's book). :)

I didn't realize that there's a whole course just on matlab. I suppose it couldn't hurt since it is one of the popular numerical packages that many people use. However, as I've mentioned, you should also learn the various numerical technique and be able to write codes for them. At the advanced/research front level, most of these packages are not able to handle the sophisticated and complex tasks. So knowing the basics of numerical programming is a good skill to have.

Zz.
 

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