Resources for learning Quantum Field Theory

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the prerequisites for studying Quantum Field Theory (QFT) without prior knowledge of standard quantum mechanics. Participants explore the feasibility of this approach and seek recommendations for resources, particularly focusing on relativistic theories.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to study QFT without a background in regular quantum mechanics, questioning the necessity of such knowledge.
  • Another participant asserts that a solid understanding of physics and mathematics is essential before tackling QFT, suggesting David Tong's notes as a useful resource.
  • A different participant indicates familiarity with classical mechanics but finds the quantum mechanics section in Tong's notes manageable, describing it as primarily involving operator equations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether one can effectively study QFT without prior knowledge of quantum mechanics. There are differing views on the prerequisites needed for understanding QFT.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights varying levels of confidence in the ability to learn QFT without a foundation in quantum mechanics, with some participants acknowledging gaps in their knowledge and others expressing familiarity with related concepts.

aclaret
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hello :)

i would very much like study some quantum field theorie, but have not previously study any regular quantum mechanic (i am not so interest in regular quantum mechanic, but more the relativistic theories).

so i ask, this is possible or not? to what extent knowledge of regular quantum mechanic is prerequisite for the quantum field theorie? any book is good?
 
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aclaret said:
hello :)

i would very much like study some quantum field theorie, but have not previously study any regular quantum mechanic (i am not so interest in regular quantum mechanic, but more the relativistic theories).

so i ask, this is possible or not? to what extent knowledge of regular quantum mechanic is prerequisite for the quantum field theorie? any book is good?
I would say you have no chance to learn QFT unless you know a lot of physics and maths. You could, however, take a look at David Tong's notes here. The first pdf is "Preliminaries" and what you need to know.

https://www.damtp.cam.ac.uk/user/tong/qft.html

See whether you can make any sense of that.
 
yes, everything look familiar apart from quantum mechanic section. i complete rigorous class semester before on the classic mechanic from the book of Spivak 'mechanic for mathematician'.

although what he write about the quantum mechanic not seem so difficult, it just look like operator equation to me :)

ok then, these notes i will begin to read. thank!
 
aclaret said:
yes, everything look familiar apart from quantum mechanic section. i complete rigorous class semester before on the classic mechanic from the book of Spivak 'mechanic for mathematician'.

although what he write about the quantum mechanic not seem so difficult, it just look like operator equation to me :)

ok then, these notes i will begin to read. thank!
Good luck!
 
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