Quantum Physics for Math Undergraduates: Advice Needed

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around recommendations for a mathematics undergraduate seeking to gain a solid understanding of quantum physics, with the intention of pursuing a master's degree in physics. Participants explore foundational knowledge in mechanics and electricity, as well as specific textbook suggestions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that a solid understanding of mechanics and the Hamiltonian principle is essential before studying quantum mechanics (QM).
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of familiarity with electricity and magnetism as a prerequisite for QM.
  • A participant requests specific textbook recommendations for studying quantum physics, indicating prior knowledge in basic QM and a background in physics courses.
  • One participant mentions a preference for a specific textbook, McIntyre, and suggests ignoring linear algebra recommendations.
  • Another participant questions the original poster's choice of major, suggesting that changing to a physics major would be beneficial for pursuing a master's in physics.
  • The original poster clarifies that changing majors is not an option at the moment.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of foundational knowledge in mechanics and electricity for studying quantum physics. However, there is disagreement regarding the necessity of changing majors, with differing opinions on the implications of the original poster's current academic path.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the prerequisites for quantum physics study are not fully explored, and there is a lack of consensus on the best approach to transitioning from mathematics to physics.

JonathanTheDestroyer
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Hello. I am a third year Mathematics undergraduate. I am intending to get a good undergraduate understanding of Quantum Physics (to eventually pursue a Physics masters) and was looking at what recommendations anybody could make.

I have a good mathematical background in linear algebra, groups, fields ect from my Maths degree so that shouldn't be a problem. I am currently reading Mechanics by Keith R. Symon to get a good understanding of classic mechanics so I was looking to expand upon this and would like any advisory textbooks to get started.

This is my first post here so apologies if this question has been asked before.

Thanks in advance.
 
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You should learn mechanics and get to understand the Hamiltonian principle. You should also be acquainted with electricity and magnetism. After that you should be good to go for QM.
 
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micromass said:
You should learn mechanics and get to understand the Hamiltonian principle. You should also be acquainted with electricity and magnetism. After that you should be good to go for QM.

I should have pointed out I have done a first year undergraduate course in Physics where we dealt with electricity and magnetism, mechanics, a bit of basic QM ect.. I have also done A level Physics (British education system). Any specific books you could recommend?
 
Look at this thread. There are some excellent recommendations. My favorite is McIntyre as I mentioned here. You can ignore the linear algebra recommendations.
 
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JonathanTheDestroyer said:
Hello. I am a third year Mathematics undergraduate. I am intending to get a good undergraduate understanding of Quantum Physics (to eventually pursue a Physics masters)

Huh? If you want to pursue a masters degree in physics you should change your major to physics now.
 
Student100 said:
Huh? If you want to pursue a masters degree in physics you should change your major to physics now.
I don't have that option right now otherwise I would have.
 

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