Quantum Mechanics Books: Next Step for Beginners

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on recommendations for quantum mechanics textbooks suitable for beginners transitioning from introductory courses. Participants explore options that balance rigor with an introduction to mathematical formalism, particularly focusing on bra-ket notation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses interest in finding a rigorous quantum mechanics book that introduces mathematical formalism, mentioning their current use of the Eisberg-Resnick book.
  • Another participant recommends Sakurai's book for its introduction to bra-ket notation and formalism.
  • A different participant suggests Dirac's classic text as an authoritative source for understanding quantum mechanics directly from the original author.
  • Griffiths is highlighted as a popular choice for transitioning from modern physics, noted for its engaging style and helpful appendices that cover necessary mathematics.
  • Nouredine Zettili's book is mentioned as a recently discovered alternative that may also be beneficial.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the value of Griffiths as a suitable next step, but there are multiple competing views regarding the best choice among Townsend, Sakurai, and Zettili, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of comfort with mathematical formalism, which may influence their textbook preferences. The discussion does not resolve which book is definitively the best choice for all beginners.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in transitioning from introductory modern physics to a more rigorous understanding of quantum mechanics, particularly those seeking resources that explain mathematical formalism.

Rackhir
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Hello everyone
I know that they are many threads already on this topic, but I'm still not convinced. I'm currently taking a course in modern physics, and, as i thought i would be, I'm fascinated with QM. Why I'm studyin engineering and not physics is something i don't have clear.
Anyway, my courses us the Eisberg-Resnick book, so it's quite introductory. So what should be my next step? something rigorous, but with a introduction on the math formalism (i'm quite blind in bra kets). I was thinking of Townsend "A moder approach to Quantum Mechanics", but i need a little more background i think, i am right?
My math background is four courses of analysis (real and complex calculus, DE) and two courses of linear algebra.
Regards and thanks in advance.
 
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The classic book to transition out of modern physics is Griffiths. Griffiths is well known to have a nice conversational engaging style. And Chapter 3 gives you exactly what you want. Also he has appendices that fill in the rest of the mathematics that are pre-requisite. Alternatively, I'd like to suggest a text I discovered a recently that's really good, the author's name is Nouredine Zettili.
 
Thank both for the income. I'm guessing that Griffiths is the best choice now, although I'm still interested in Townsend or Sakurai. And i have to take a deeper look int Nouredine Zettili contents. Thanks!
 

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