Shankar, Feynman, Griffiths and Resnick?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the selection and sequencing of textbooks for self-studying quantum mechanics. Participants explore the suitability of various texts, the necessary mathematical background, and the order in which to approach the material.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant plans to use MIT quantum mechanics lectures and is considering Shankar, Feynman Lectures Book 3, Resnick, and Griffiths for their studies.
  • There is a question about the optimal sequence for reading these texts to gain a solid understanding of quantum mechanics and mathematical skills.
  • Concerns are raised regarding the participant's proficiency in linear algebra, specifically regarding eigenvectors and eigenvalues, and whether Shankar's treatment is sufficient.
  • Another participant suggests that Shankar is appropriate for the participant's current level and notes that most books cover methods for solving differential equations.
  • One participant recommends starting with Eisberg Resnick, followed by Griffiths, and concluding with Shankar, emphasizing that mathematical rigor can be developed later.
  • It is mentioned that a good understanding of partial differential equations is important, and a math methods course may be beneficial.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the order of the textbooks and the necessity of additional mathematical preparation. There is no consensus on the best approach to studying quantum mechanics or the required mathematical background.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight varying levels of comfort with linear algebra and differential equations, indicating that the discussion is influenced by individual backgrounds and preferences in mathematical rigor.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in self-studying quantum mechanics, particularly those evaluating different textbooks and their mathematical prerequisites.

sarvesh0303
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I know there are a lot of similar questions here but just hear me out.
I am going to start self-studying quantum mechanics in a few days. I think I am going to use the MIT quantum mechanics 1 lectures as a starting point. But books will be essential as I spend most of my time in school. I have squared in on Shankar, Feynman Lectures Book 3, Resnick, and Griffiths as my books. Budget is not a problem as I could find cheap editions available here.
My questions are :
1) In what sequence should I read them so that I can have a good understanding of quantum mechanics and at the same time, a good amount of mathematical prowess? Or should I read them in parallel with each other.
2) I don't have a complete understanding of linear algebra. I understand stuff like determinants and matrices, but not very proficient in eigenvectors and eigenvalues. Is the linear algebra given in Shankar enough? Or should I master the text by Gilbert Strang?
3) How much of knowledge of differential equations do I need? I have read the first book by Apostol, so I am comfortable with stuff like linear second order differential equations but don't know the complex topics such as Legendre equations.
 
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It sounds to me like you are prepared enough for Shankar. Most books will explain methods of solving differential equations like separation of variables and solution by power series.
 
Eisberg Resnick should be first; Griffith next; Shankar last. Linear algebra preparation does not require Strang nor Calculus Apostol. Math rigor should be second to math facility and comfort. Rigor can come later. Any good book in Linear algebra that addresses is good. Thomas's Calculus is adequate until Griffith. You will need to know how to solve partial differential equations ( a good math methods course with Arfken & Weber, Boas, or Butkov is important).
 
Thanks! :)
 

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