Spinors & Space-Time: What Math Prereqs Are Needed?

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SUMMARY

Understanding spinors in modern theoretical physics requires a solid foundation in specific mathematical concepts. Key prerequisites include real analysis, linear algebra, and a basic understanding of topology. Recommended resources for building this foundation include Wu Ki Tung's "Group Theory" (1984) and Gregory L. Naber's "The Geometry of Minkowski Spacetime: An Introduction to the Mathematics of the Special Theory of Relativity." These texts provide essential insights into spinorial representations and the geometry relevant to spinors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Real analysis
  • Linear algebra
  • Basic topology
  • Group theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Wu Ki Tung's "Group Theory" (1984) for foundational concepts in group theory.
  • Read Gregory L. Naber's "The Geometry of Minkowski Spacetime" for an introduction to spinors.
  • Explore spinorial representations of the restricted Lorentz group.
  • Review chapters on spinors in Cromwell's work for additional context and examples.
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The discussion benefits theoretical physicists, mathematicians, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of spinors and their applications in modern physics.

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Are spinors needed in modern theoretical physics as opposed to tensors? I have come across Penrose's book "Spinors and space-time". Does anybody know what mathematical prerequisites are needed to actually understand it? (at least volume 1) Can I manage to go through it with a good knowledge of real analysis and linear algebra and a very basic understanding of topology?
 
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Penrose and Rindler is to me the ultimate level. You should start with something light, like a group theory book like Wu Ki Tung (1984), or Cromwell (vol.2) which have good chapters on spinorial representations of the restricted Lorentz group.
 
Chapter 3 from The Geometry of Minkowski Spacetime: An Introduction to the Mathematics of the Special Theory of Relativity is a nice, readable introduction to spinors. Actually, the entire book is quite nice.
 
George is speaking about

The Geometry of Minkowski Spacetime: An Introduction to the Mathematics of the Special Theory of Relativity (Applied Mathematical Sciences) by Gregory L. Naber.
 
Ok, I have had a look at The Geometry of Minkowski Spacetime and seems really good. Thanks again for your advice!
 

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