Algebra Any recommendations for group theory books with applications in relativity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on recommendations for group theory books that emphasize applications in physics, particularly relativity. Participants suggest "Group Theory and Quantum Mechanics" by Tinkham for its practical applications, "Chemical Applications of Group Theory" by Cotton as a classic resource for chemists, and "Molecular Symmetry and Spectroscopy" by Bunker and Jensen for its relevance to modern molecular physics. The user seeks introductory materials that do not assume extensive prior knowledge, making these recommendations suitable for beginners.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of group theory concepts
  • Familiarity with algebraic structures
  • Introductory knowledge of quantum mechanics
  • Awareness of applications in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Group Theory and Quantum Mechanics" by Tinkham for practical applications
  • Explore "Chemical Applications of Group Theory" by Cotton for insights into chemistry
  • Investigate "Molecular Symmetry and Spectroscopy" by Bunker and Jensen for modern applications
  • Look into advanced texts on group theory with a focus on relativity
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics and physics, particularly those interested in group theory applications in quantum mechanics and relativity.

lizzie96'
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Hello,

I’m looking for introductory books/notes on group theory and algebra. We are using “Groups” by Jordan and Jordan in class, but I am looking for something a little more in-depth. I wouldn’t mind a book that was entirely focused on the pure maths side but if it had lots of applications to physics that would be even better. Also, this is my first class in the subject so something without too much assumed knowledge of the subject would be good.

Thanks for any ideas!
 
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lizzie96' said:
Hello,

I’m looking for introductory books/notes on group theory and algebra. We are using “Groups” by Jordan and Jordan in class, but I am looking for something a little more in-depth. I wouldn’t mind a book that was entirely focused on the pure maths side but if it had lots of applications to physics that would be even better. Also, this is my first class in the subject so something without too much assumed knowledge of the subject would be good.

Thanks for any ideas!

Tinkham "Group Theory and Quantum Mechanics" is a brief book with lots of applications
Cotton: Chemical Applications of Group Theory" is a classic for chemists
Bunker and Jensen "Molecular Symmetry and Spectroscopy" is a very good book with "modern" applications to molecular physics
 
Thank you, I will have a look at those. Also, do you know of any books about applications of group theory in relativity?
 
i am self learning physics. have you ever worked your way backwards again after finishing most undergrad courses? i have textbooks for junior/senior physics courses in classical mechanics, electrodynamics, thermal physics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods for self learning. i have the Halliday Resnick sophomore book. working backwards, i checked out Conceptual Physics 11th edition by Hewitt and found this book very helpful. What i liked most was how stimulating the pictures...

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