What are the best textbooks for understanding quantum physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for textbooks to aid in understanding quantum physics, particularly in preparation for an upcoming exam. Participants explore various resources that could help clarify theoretical and mathematical concepts in the subject.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks textbook recommendations to better grasp quantum physics concepts, expressing concerns about understanding terminology due to language barriers.
  • Another participant questions the timing of the request, asking if the original poster has studied the subject in class or is starting from scratch.
  • The original poster clarifies that they have attended classes and taken notes but finds them confusing due to their varied sources.
  • A participant inquires about the specific level of the quantum mechanics class and the textbook currently being used, as well as the topics covered and the level of mathematics involved.
  • The original poster lists several topics covered in their course, including the Schrödinger equation, probability density, measurement operators, and angular momentum.
  • One participant recommends David Griffiths' "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics" as a suitable textbook for the topics mentioned.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on multiple textbook options, but there is agreement on the recommendation of Griffiths' book for the specified topics. The discussion remains open regarding other potential resources.

Contextual Notes

The original poster's understanding is influenced by their non-native English proficiency and the mixed quality of their notes, which may affect their grasp of the subject matter.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for exams in quantum physics, particularly those seeking clarity on theoretical and mathematical concepts, may find this discussion helpful.

solas99
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hey, I'm physics student, doing my quantum physics exam soon, was wondering if there is any textbooks you recommend.

any kind of information that will help me understand the subject in theory and mathematically..



thanks a lot
 
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If you are doing an exam 'soon' it seems a bit late to be starting a textbook! Have you already studied the subject in a class or are you starting from scratch??
 
hey,
no of course i started a while back, and yes I've been to classes, and have my notes taken..

but i always over complicate what's asked from me..specially trying to understand meanings of words (I'm not a native english speaker) so have a bit of difficulty understanding actual meanings of terms used.

Notes i have, are a a bit confusing, as they are taken from different sources, so its bait hard to follow.

thats why I'm asking for a notebook, that can help me get a proper grip of the topic.
 
solas99, what level quantum mechanics class is this? What textbook are you using in class? What topics in quantum mechanics have you covered in class, and what level of mathematics have you used?
 
not sure about TEXT BOOK, just powerpoint presentation(includes notes)

1.Schrödinger equation. time independent Schrödinger equation
2.1-D well, particle in a box
probability density
3.normalisation
4.time dependent Schrödinger equation
5. measurement ---operators, momentum operator, position operator, expectation value,
6. superposition functions,wavefunction collapse,
7. 2D infinite well, 3D infinite well
8.particle at a finite potential step, Continuity
9.particle in a finite potential well( symmetric, asymmetric)
10.Linear potential (linear potential with infinite wall)
11.harmonic oscillator
12.correspondance principal, gaussian wavepacket
13.dirac notation, commutation
14. angular momentum
15. magnetism
16. hydrogen atom

these are the topics that were included in the powerpoint notes.
 
OK, I think for these topics, David Griffiths' Introduction to Quantum Mechanics would be best.
 
thanks a lot..will have a look at it asap..
appreciate the advice
 

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