A good quantum mechanics book for the self-learner?

In summary, the conversation revolves around finding a book to teach oneself quantum mechanics. Suggestions for books include "Classical Mechanics" by John R Taylor, "Quantum Mechanics Demystified" from the "Demystified" series, "Principles of Quantum Mechanics" by Shankar, "Modern Quantum Mechanics" by Sakurai, and "Quantum Theory: Concepts and Methods" by Asher Peres. Personal favorites include "Alice in Quantumland" for an introduction to the subject, and "Understanding Quantum Physics" by Morrison as a stepping stone to more advanced books.
  • #71
It would be bad if that book were at the level of 'rigor' as Sakurai's Modern QM text. Basically the only rigor I saw in Sakurai's book was in proper usage of the techniques of complex analysis.
 
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  • #72
dextercioby said:
It would be bad if that book were at the level of 'rigor' as Sakurai's Modern QM text. Basically the only rigor I saw in Sakurai's book was in proper usage of the techniques of complex analysis.
Lol you got to love how Sakurai introduces kets and bras without ever mentioning what dual spaces are (heck I don't even remember if he defines what a vector space is xD).
 
  • #73
Quantum mechanics by Linus Pauling (you can get it on archive.org ) and Griffiths of course.
 
  • #74
WannabeNewton said:
Based off of the Amazon preview, this book looks quite similar, in exposition and level of rigor, to Sakurai's text. If you have used Sakurai yourself, would you say Townsend's book is unequivocally better than Sakurai's text? Or at least to first order :biggrin:?

Sakurai is a classic. But I think Townsend is a better book for undergraduates. It's more approachable and more patient in its exposition.
 
  • #75
For a really basic intro to am then try open university books for their level 3 course in quantum mechanics. Assumes the reader has little knowledge of qm and the required maths is basic. All further maths needed is taught within the books. Since the OU specialises in self learning it should be a good starting point, but it's just an intro. Doesn't really delve into much formalism and only touches on advanced stuff such as entanglement
 
<h2>1. What are the key concepts that a good quantum mechanics book for self-learners should cover?</h2><p>A good quantum mechanics book for self-learners should cover the basic principles and theories of quantum mechanics, such as wave-particle duality, uncertainty principle, superposition, and entanglement. It should also include mathematical tools and techniques used in quantum mechanics, such as linear algebra and complex numbers.</p><h2>2. Is it necessary to have a strong background in physics and mathematics to understand a quantum mechanics book for self-learners?</h2><p>While a strong background in physics and mathematics can be helpful, it is not necessary to understand a quantum mechanics book for self-learners. Many books are designed for beginners and provide clear explanations and examples to help readers grasp the concepts. However, some familiarity with basic physics and math concepts may make the learning process easier.</p><h2>3. Are there any recommended books for self-learning quantum mechanics?</h2><p>Yes, there are many recommended books for self-learning quantum mechanics, such as "Quantum Mechanics: The Theoretical Minimum" by Leonard Susskind and Art Friedman, "Quantum Mechanics Demystified" by David McMahon, and "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics" by David J. Griffiths. It is important to choose a book that suits your learning style and level of understanding.</p><h2>4. How can I practice and apply the concepts learned from a quantum mechanics book for self-learners?</h2><p>There are many ways to practice and apply the concepts learned from a quantum mechanics book for self-learners. You can solve practice problems and exercises provided in the book, watch online lectures or tutorials, or join a study group to discuss and apply the concepts with others. You can also try to apply the concepts to real-world examples and experiments.</p><h2>5. Can a quantum mechanics book for self-learners prepare me for advanced studies in quantum physics?</h2><p>Yes, a good quantum mechanics book for self-learners can provide a solid foundation for advanced studies in quantum physics. It covers the fundamental concepts and mathematical tools used in quantum mechanics, which are essential for understanding more complex theories and applications. However, it is important to also supplement your learning with other resources and seek guidance from experts in the field.</p>

1. What are the key concepts that a good quantum mechanics book for self-learners should cover?

A good quantum mechanics book for self-learners should cover the basic principles and theories of quantum mechanics, such as wave-particle duality, uncertainty principle, superposition, and entanglement. It should also include mathematical tools and techniques used in quantum mechanics, such as linear algebra and complex numbers.

2. Is it necessary to have a strong background in physics and mathematics to understand a quantum mechanics book for self-learners?

While a strong background in physics and mathematics can be helpful, it is not necessary to understand a quantum mechanics book for self-learners. Many books are designed for beginners and provide clear explanations and examples to help readers grasp the concepts. However, some familiarity with basic physics and math concepts may make the learning process easier.

3. Are there any recommended books for self-learning quantum mechanics?

Yes, there are many recommended books for self-learning quantum mechanics, such as "Quantum Mechanics: The Theoretical Minimum" by Leonard Susskind and Art Friedman, "Quantum Mechanics Demystified" by David McMahon, and "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics" by David J. Griffiths. It is important to choose a book that suits your learning style and level of understanding.

4. How can I practice and apply the concepts learned from a quantum mechanics book for self-learners?

There are many ways to practice and apply the concepts learned from a quantum mechanics book for self-learners. You can solve practice problems and exercises provided in the book, watch online lectures or tutorials, or join a study group to discuss and apply the concepts with others. You can also try to apply the concepts to real-world examples and experiments.

5. Can a quantum mechanics book for self-learners prepare me for advanced studies in quantum physics?

Yes, a good quantum mechanics book for self-learners can provide a solid foundation for advanced studies in quantum physics. It covers the fundamental concepts and mathematical tools used in quantum mechanics, which are essential for understanding more complex theories and applications. However, it is important to also supplement your learning with other resources and seek guidance from experts in the field.

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