I got a topic to research Recommended preparatory reading?

[bjnartowt]

I got a topic to research! Recommended preparatory reading?

I have been invited to write a proposal for researching this:

>> The basic idea is to calculate, in first approximation,
the effect of electron-positron pairs on the quantum state
of a photon. You will need to study some relativistic
quantum mechanics, calculate the electron-positron-pair
creation contribution to the photon Hamiltonian, and then
solve the eigenvalue problem for the state of the photon.
All can be done analytically and parallels a similar
calculation for the state of the electron. The analysis
will become part of a larger calculation (not for summer
but for later) that is numerical and could be a thesis topic. <<

However, I only know Griffiths ch. 1-4, a little bit of 5, and ch. 6, some electrodynamics (enough to be able to read and understand up to Jackson Ch. 5), and Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics. Any recommended reading for gently bringing myself to understand relativistic quantum mechanics?

 

[malawi_glenn]

I recommend Greiner's book "relativistic quantum mechanics - wave equation"

It should be enough for this task

 

[sir-pinski]

Congratulations on receiving a topic to research! It sounds like a challenging and interesting project. In order to prepare for your research, I would recommend starting with some introductory texts on relativistic quantum mechanics. One good resource is "Relativistic Quantum Mechanics" by James D. Bjorken and Sidney D. Drell. This book covers the basic concepts and mathematical tools needed for understanding the effects of relativity on quantum systems. Another helpful resource is "Introduction to Elementary Particles" by David Griffiths. This book provides a clear and concise introduction to relativistic quantum mechanics, as well as its applications in particle physics. Additionally, I would suggest exploring online resources such as video lectures and online courses on the topic. Good luck with your research!