Is understanding analytical mechanics essential for studying QM?

AI Thread Summary
Understanding analytical mechanics, particularly concepts like Lagrangians and Hamiltonians, is beneficial for studying quantum mechanics (QM). While some programs teach QM without a background in analytical mechanics, having this knowledge provides a clearer grasp of underlying concepts. Goldstein's textbook is recommended for its depth, but it's not necessary to read the entire book to begin learning QM. Focusing on key chapters can enhance comprehension of quantum principles, especially the Schrödinger formalism. Overall, a foundational knowledge of analytical mechanics can significantly aid in mastering advanced topics in physics.
Jianphys17
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Hi at all.
I'm wondered is necessary learn well analytical mechanic ( eg learning The Goldstein's book), for understand and study QM ?
 
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Well, yes. Why would you think it's not?
 
Well, not the whole book, but definitely the important stuff, like Lagrangians and Hamiltonians.
 
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dextercioby said:
Well, not the whole book, but definitely the important stuff, like Lagrangians and Hamiltonians.
It wouldn't harm him. :-)
 
Depends on how deep you want to go. If you want to know everything about QM an undergraduate in physics knows, then I think you'll be fine for the most part without ever taking analytical mechanics. Also, why do you want to study from Goldstein? That's a graduate textbook and is kind of overkill if what you ultimately want is to learn QM.
 
haushofer said:
Well, yes. Why would you think it's not?
Yes that i know, but i meant if it is necessary to study all Goldstein for good, for begin to grasp qm...
 
It always baffled me how some programs teach quantum mechanics without ever mentioning hamiltonians in the classical setting. It is kind of asking students to accept a completely new concept in a completely new setting without ever seeing the classical background.

That being said, some programs do teach QM without teaching analytical mechanics. However, you will have an advantage in terms of understanding the underlying concepts if you do.
 
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TAHNKS
 
Goldstein is great book, just give it a try and read the lightly first chapters just to first 150p. and try to read hamiltonian formalism chapter. You'll enjoy quantum mechanics because you will understand schrodinger formalism.
If you mean if it neccesary to read the whole book, No you don't need to.
But if you look further to learn advanced topics like relativity and quantum field theory you need it.
 

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