differential equations

sandy.bridge

Unfortunately I am unable to fit a first course in differential equations into my schedule, therefore I have opted to self study the said course. I am looking for a textbook appropriate for an introduction into differential equations that isn't too ambiguous to tackle on my own. I am an EE major wanting to expand my knowledge in quantum mechanics on the side (the amount of quantum mechanics for my degree is minute, so I am self-teaching what I can.)

sandy.bridge

Also, any other math textbooks that will aid with quantum mechanics is appreciated

dark_raider

I thimk that Dover publications would suit you pretty nicely. Search for their books on ODEs (tanenbaum) and PDEs (farlow). As for QM, you could use Zettil, Ballentine or Griffiths. A search in the forum's previous threads would be a good option too :P

Jorriss

Ross, Differential Equations. It has a very nice blend of theory, simply solving DEs and applications. I think his chapter on solving ODEs with power series is especially instructive.

http://www.amazon.com/Differential-E...tial+equations

I just got a used hardcover cause it is pricey otherwise.

sandy.bridge

One more thing: I was under the impression qm dealt a lot with statistics/probability, however, the majority of undergraduate qm courses dont require a statistics course as a prereq. Why is that?

YAHA

This is THE differential equations book:

http://www.amazon.com/Ordinary-Diffe...tial+equations

As to Quantum, use a mix of Zettili (THE BEST introduction book) and Shankar (phenomenally beautiful book albeit more advanced).

jasonRF

Because quantum mechanics only uses very simple aspects of probability theory, so it is easily covered in class.