What are some good books for understanding Lie Groups and Group Theory?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for books on Lie Groups and Group Theory, particularly in the context of a Quantum Field Theory (QFT) course. Participants seek accessible resources for understanding these concepts, especially given the limitations of their current course materials.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Ryan expresses a need for book recommendations on Lie Groups and Group Theory, emphasizing the lack of proofs and depth in the professor's notes.
  • Some participants recommend "Group Theory in Physics" by Wu Ki Tung as a strong resource.
  • Ryan mentions difficulty accessing Wu Ki Tung's book through his library and seeks additional recommendations.
  • George suggests "Groups, Representations and Physics" by H. F. Jones as another potential resource.
  • Michael Tinkham's Dover book is also mentioned as a recommendation, although it is noted that it does not cover Lie Groups and is more suited for solid state theory.
  • A participant suggests "Aitcheson and Hey's Quantum Field Theory" book, which is said to cover aspects of Lie Group theory.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for accessible resources on the topic, but there are differing opinions on the suitability of specific books, particularly regarding their coverage of Lie Groups.

Contextual Notes

Some recommendations may not fully address the specific needs for Lie Group theory, and there is uncertainty about the accessibility of the suggested texts for those new to the material.

Who May Find This Useful

Students and educators in physics, particularly those involved in Quantum Field Theory or seeking to understand Lie Groups and Group Theory.

Norman
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I need a book recommendation for Lie Groups/Group Theory. I am taking a QFT course and the first month is a whirlwind intro to Group Theory with an emphasis on Lie Groups. There is no book, but only the professors notes that doesn't give any proofs. His notes simply states a bunch of theorems, then goes on to give only very trivial examples. So, I was wondering if anyone knows of any books that are especially good on the subject? They should be accessable to someone who has never seen the material before. Thanks for any help you can give.
Cheers,
Ryan
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Wu Ki Tung, Group Theory in Physics...Best book I have seen on the subject...

http://www.worldscibooks.com/physics/0097.html
 
Dr Transport said:
Wu Ki Tung, Group Theory in Physics...Best book I have seen on the subject...

http://www.worldscibooks.com/physics/0097.html

Ok... so my library doesn't have this one. Any other good ones out there. I am trying to get it through inter-library loan, but one never knows.
Thanks for the recommendation.
Cheers,
Ryan
 
You might try Groups, Representations and Physics, 2nd edition, by H. F. Jones.

Regards,
George
 
Also Michael Tinkham's Dover book.
 
juvenal said:
Also Michael Tinkham's Dover book.


Micheal Tinkhams book does not cover Lie groups, it is written for the solid state theorist. Aitcheson ahd Hey's Quantum Field Thoery book covers quite a bit of Lie group theory, I'd suggest it.
 

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