Unraveling Quantum Physics to Understanding Complex Equations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of learning quantum physics, particularly focusing on the complexity of its mathematical equations and the prerequisites needed for understanding. Participants explore various resources for learning mathematics and quantum mechanics, as well as the conceptual difficulties associated with quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire to learn a complex quantum physics equation, despite not yet knowing calculus.
  • Another suggests looking up the Schrödinger equation as a starting point.
  • Some participants argue that quantum mechanics (QM) is conceptually more challenging than mathematically difficult, recommending foundational math courses like linear algebra and single-variable calculus.
  • There is a suggestion that understanding the meaning of equations is more important than their derivation.
  • Several participants provide links to free online resources for learning calculus and linear algebra.
  • Discussion includes recommendations for specific textbooks, with some participants noting the high cost of certain books while emphasizing the value of library resources.
  • One participant questions whether certain textbooks require prerequisites, leading to a clarification that some chapters may be useful before tackling Schrödinger's equation.
  • Another participant mentions an alternative textbook that is more affordable but still emphasizes the need for calculus knowledge.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of foundational math skills for understanding quantum mechanics, but there are differing opinions on the necessity and accessibility of specific textbooks and resources. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to learning quantum physics and the prerequisites involved.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the need for prior knowledge in linear algebra and calculus to effectively engage with quantum mechanics, but there is no consensus on the specific resources or methods that are most effective for learning.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in learning quantum physics, students seeking resources for calculus and linear algebra, and those exploring the conceptual challenges of quantum mechanics.

QuantumTheory
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How you learn quantum physics I don't know. The math is complicated. I want to know a really hard equation that involves quantum physics and is really hard to solve. A really confusing looking one. I don't know calculus yet, but I will someday.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
look up the shrodinger equation
 
QM is more difficult conceptually then it is mathematically. If you want to do hard core math stuff as well, try topological field theory or string theory.

regards
marlon
 
There's no sense in learning "a really hard equation" in vacuo, because it really won't mean anything to you. You should just work on your math skills. You don't need much beyond linear algebra and single-variable calculus to understand the bulk of QM, and most scientific or technical degree programs include those classes in the first couple of years.

- Warren
 
Warren is correct,

QM is not that hard mathematically and your university will make sure that you have completed the necessary calculus/algebra courses before you embark your actual QM-journey...Don't worry about the math, worry about the "counter-intuitive" nature of QM. It really proves our intuition is a bad thing to follow when doing science.

regards
marlon
 
The equations aren't the hard stuff. But you have to understand this equation not in sense of their derivation but in sense of their meaning how they describe the nature.
 
so where can i learn online, FREE
 
ArielGenesis said:
so where can i learn online, FREE

This is my specialty. :approve:

Free Calculus Books
http://www.math.wisc.edu/~keisler/keislercalc.pdf
http://faculty.swosu.edu/michael.dougherty/book/book.html

Free Linear Algebra Book
http://joshua.smcvt.edu/linearalgebra

Free Ordinary Differential Equations Book
http://math.furman.edu/~dcs/book
 
Though it's better if you went to the library and get Morse & Feshbach.It's all one needs.

Daniel.
 
  • #10
dextercioby said:
Though it's better if you went to the library and get Morse & Feshbach.It's all one needs.

Are you trying to say that Morse and Feshbach requires no prerequisites? :confused:
 
  • #11
Nope,but i still think that some chapers of that book are highly useful before jumping to Schrödinger and functional analysis...


Daniel.
 
  • #12
dextercioby said:
Though it's better if you went to the library and get Morse & Feshbach.It's all one needs.

Daniel.
You're talking about _Methods of Theoretical Physics_? OK, but I can't find a copy of that book for less than $200.00 (!). There was a rumor that the publisher was working on a paperback set, is that still happening?
 
  • #13
Of course i meant that book.I know it's expensive,even if it was written in 1953 (!),but borrowing from the library is supposed to be free.

Daniel.
 
  • #14
You can get Methods of Classical and Quantum Physics by Byron and Fuller for $9 used. It's a Dover publication. Good book too.

However, you need to learn calculus first.
 
  • #15
I don't know about that one,i don't have it,but i was giving him the best there is.I'm sure that all book recomandations of methods of mathematical physics require some linear algebra & calculus as prerequisites.

Daniel.
 
  • #16
wow, such a very great resources. thx
 

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