Quantum Mechanics: Fitzpatrick's Online Grad Course vs. Feynman & Sakurai

In summary, the conversation discusses the difficulty level of different resources for quantum mechanics. The speaker expresses curiosity about the difficulty of Fitzpatrick's online course compared to Feynman's lectures and Sakurai's book. They mention that they have never heard of Fitzpatrick's course, but that the gap between Feynman's lectures and Sakurai's book is significant. The speaker then shares a link to Fitzpatrick's book and asks which resource is more difficult. Another speaker responds by stating that Sakurai is significantly more difficult than Feynman's lectures, which were intended for first-year university students. They also mention that Fitzpatrick's book is closer in difficulty to Sakurai's.
  • #1
Domnu
178
0
Just out of curiosity, how hard is Fitzpatrick's online Graduate version of quantum mechanics compared to the Feynman lectures and Sakurai's book?
 
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  • #2
I've never heard of Fitzpatrick's course, but the gap between the Feynman lectures and Sakurai is very very significant.
 
  • #4
Sakurai by a landslide I'd imagine. Feynman's lectures were intended to instill a love of physics to a group of first year university students. They're not like actual advanced lectures.
 
  • #5
Yep. Feynman's lectures are good for introducing quantum mechanics, but it's presented for first-year undergrads. Sakurai is an advanced graduate text, and a difficult one at that. Fitzpatrick's is definitely closer to Sakurai.
 

1. What is the main difference between Fitzpatrick's Online Grad Course and Feynman & Sakurai's approach to teaching quantum mechanics?

The main difference between these two courses is the level of depth and complexity. Fitzpatrick's online grad course is designed for graduate students who have already completed undergraduate studies in physics, while Feynman & Sakurai's approach is more accessible for undergraduate students. Additionally, Fitzpatrick's course focuses more on mathematical formalism and problem-solving, while Feynman & Sakurai's approach emphasizes conceptual understanding and intuition.

2. Which course is better for someone new to quantum mechanics?

If you are completely new to quantum mechanics, Feynman & Sakurai's approach may be more suitable as it offers a more conceptual and intuitive understanding of the subject. However, if you have a strong mathematical background and are comfortable with rigorous problem-solving, Fitzpatrick's online grad course could also be a good option.

3. Are there any prerequisites for these courses?

Both Fitzpatrick's online grad course and Feynman & Sakurai's approach require a strong foundation in mathematics, particularly in calculus and linear algebra. Some familiarity with classical mechanics and electromagnetism may also be helpful, but not necessary.

4. What is the time commitment for each course?

The time commitment for these courses will vary depending on the individual's background and learning style. Generally, Fitzpatrick's online grad course will require more time due to its emphasis on mathematical formalism and problem-solving. Feynman & Sakurai's approach may be less time-consuming as it focuses more on conceptual understanding.

5. Which course is more suitable for someone looking to pursue a career in quantum mechanics?

Both courses can provide a strong foundation for a career in quantum mechanics. However, Fitzpatrick's online grad course may be more beneficial for those interested in pursuing research in the field, as it covers more advanced topics and techniques. Feynman & Sakurai's approach may be more suitable for those interested in applying quantum mechanics in other fields, such as engineering or computer science.

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