Griffith's Introduction to Elementary Particles

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the prerequisites and knowledge required to effectively engage with Griffith's "Introduction to Elementary Particles," particularly in relation to quantum mechanics (QM). Participants explore concerns about the adequacy of their QM background for understanding the textbook and the associated particle physics course.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about their limited knowledge of QM and questions whether it will be sufficient for the textbook.
  • Another participant suggests that while some QM concepts are recapitulated in Griffith's book, a solid understanding of wave-functions, states, orbital angular momentum, spin, and addition of angular momentum is necessary.
  • A different viewpoint indicates that Griffith's book is well-written and manageable with just one formal QM course, although it may take longer to grasp the material without a stronger background.
  • One participant advises consulting the course instructor to clarify expectations, noting that teaching styles may vary significantly.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a foundational understanding of quantum mechanics is important for studying particle physics, but there is no consensus on the exact level of QM knowledge required or the sufficiency of a single course.

Contextual Notes

There are varying assumptions about the depth of QM knowledge needed, and the discussion reflects differing opinions on the adequacy of the textbook's explanations for those with limited QM experience.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a course in particle physics who are unsure about their preparedness in quantum mechanics may find this discussion relevant.

GleasSpty
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I was thinking about sitting in a course next quarter that used this textbook, and no prerequisites are listed, so I was wondering what kind of things should I know to get through the text.
The thing I am most worried about is my knowledge of QM. I only know the little QM I have studied independently and what we did in an intro. modern physics course. I will be taking a full blown QM course concurrently with the Particle Physics course, but am unsure if this will be enough.

After flipping through the text for about an hour or so, I haven't found anything he supposes you to know but don't, i.e. everything I didn't understand he appeared to expalin in the text.

I'm still a little worried though: if I only know very little QM, will I be completley lost with this text?
 
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You will be little confused, the things you need to know are also presented in his book. But the basic stuffs like wave-functions and states, orbital angular momentum, spin, and addition of angular momentum must be known quite well. Although some things are recapitulated for you in his particle physics book.

So I would not recommend going through a course in particle physics without quantum mechanics, at the level of Griffith's textbook in quantum mechanics.
 
Griffith's is an amazing book though. I don't think it would be a huge undertaking to tackle most of the book with just a single course taken on QM, as it's so well written; but you would definitely need at least 1 formal course on QM, and it might take you a while longer than average.

definitely worth the effort
 
assuming this is at a university where you are a student, my advice to you is to ask your instructor. Many instructors use a book only as a guide, but fill in many details in lecture. others do exactly the opposite! so you should talk to him or her and find out what is expected of you.

QM is vital for particle physics (as you might imagine!). but if the course is taught correctly, you might be okay. No one here can answer that for you.

Good luck!
 
thank's
 
thank's this book is that what i need for my university
 

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