Learn QM in Heisenberg Formalism: Texts/Sources

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around recommendations for texts and online sources for learning quantum mechanics (QM) specifically in the Heisenberg formalism. Participants express a desire for resources that delve into the mathematical details rather than introductory material.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests recommendations for advanced texts or online sources focused on the Heisenberg formalism of quantum mechanics, emphasizing a preference for detailed mathematical treatment.
  • Another participant provides a link to a previous thread as a potential resource.
  • A different participant mentions L. Schiff's "Quantum Mechanics" and suggests checking the bibliography of S. Weinberg's "Quantum Theory of Fields" for additional references.
  • There is a clarification regarding the Heisenberg formalism, with one participant asserting it refers to the original matrix mechanics from 1925, distinguishing it from the Heisenberg picture.
  • A participant acknowledges the distinction between the terms "formalism" and "picture," indicating a nuanced understanding of the terminology used in quantum mechanics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for advanced resources, but there is some clarification needed regarding the terminology of "formalism" versus "picture," indicating a potential area of confusion or differing interpretations.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions of "formalism" and "picture" in quantum mechanics may not be fully resolved, and the discussion does not reach a consensus on the best resources available.

James Jackson
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Can anyone recommend any texts / online sources for learning QM in the Heisenberg formalism? I don't want some 'basics of' book - nitty gritty maths is what I'm after.
 
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I've seen many texts on QM,but beside the VI-the chapter of L.Schiff's "Quantum Mechanics",McGraw-Hill,1947,i don't remember other source.

Daniel.

P.S.You may want to check the bibliography to the first chapter of S.Weinberg's "Quantum Theory of Fields",VOL 1,CUP,1995.
 
Thank you both, I'll follow those up. As a 'reference point', am I thinking what the Heisenberg Formalism is what it is - ie unitary evolution of the operators rather than the wavefunction (that, of course, being the Schrödinger formalism)?
 
"Heisenberg formalism" means just that:the original 1925 Heisenberg-Jordan-Born matrix mechanics.

As for the Heisenberg picture,that's something else.The 3 equivalent pictures should be in any serious QM text:Gallindo & Pascual,for example.

Daniel.
 
Ah, symantics of the words formalism and picture... Thanks for the book ref.
 

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