Good textbook(s) for self-studying Quantum Physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for textbooks suitable for self-studying quantum mechanics, particularly aimed at individuals with a math background seeking accessible resources. Participants share various texts and their opinions on the suitability of these books for different levels of understanding in quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest Ballentine as a good textbook, while others find it too challenging for beginners.
  • Dirac's 1930 textbook is mentioned as a classic, with some arguing it remains relevant, though others question its applicability to modern quantum physics.
  • Feynman’s lectures and Pauling & Wilson's book are recommended for practical applications of quantum mechanics.
  • David Tong's notes are highlighted for their clarity and conceptual focus.
  • David Miller's "Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers" and Susskind's "Quantum Mechanics: The Theoretical Minimum" are proposed as accessible introductions.
  • Griffiths is frequently recommended as a solid undergraduate-level textbook.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the availability of good quantum mechanics textbooks for those without prior knowledge of the subject.
  • There is discussion about the differences in pedagogical approaches between various textbooks, particularly between Ballentine and Sakurai.
  • Several links to online resources and textbooks are shared for further exploration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best textbook for self-studying quantum mechanics, with multiple competing views and recommendations presented. There is disagreement on the appropriateness of certain texts for beginners and the relevance of older texts in the current context of quantum mechanics.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the effectiveness of a textbook can be subjective and depends on the reader's background and learning style. There are also references to the evolving nature of quantum mechanics and the potential challenges of understanding foundational concepts without prior knowledge.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals with a background in mathematics seeking to self-study quantum mechanics, as well as educators looking for textbook recommendations for their students.

  • #31
Meow12 said:
I just listened to an awesome YouTube lecture on Quantum Mechanics by Sean Carroll:

I may buy his book Something Deeply Hidden: Quantum Worlds and the Emergence of Spacetime someday. This is really what I was looking for--not grad school textbooks.
This is not self-studying quantum physics. This is listening to quantum stories.

You were given plenty of undergraduate text suggestions.
 
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  • #32
Frabjous said:
This is not self-studying quantum physics. This is listening to quantum stories.

You were given plenty of undergraduate text suggestions.
I guess I should've been more clear in my OP--I have no intention of solving the Schrödinger wave equation.
 
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  • #34
Meow12 said:
I have a math degree, so I'm not averse to equations.
Meow12 said:
I have no intention of solving the Schrödinger wave equation.
:confused::confused::confused:
 
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  • #35
If you are near finishing your degree in math I think it’s well worth your time to familiarize yourself with simple potentials via solving the Schrödinger equation.
 
  • #36
Meow12 said:
I guess I should've been more clear in my OP--I have no intention of solving the Schrödinger wave equation.
You asked for textbooks. That's what you were given.

You also said you are not averse to equations, so I'm puzzled by your statement that you have no intention of solving the Schrödinger equation. That statement is also not consistent with your request for textbooks, since textbooks are going to want you to solve equations in their exercises.

In any case, it looks like your OP request has been met, so this thread is now closed.
 

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