What math background is needed for self-studying quantum mechanics?

AI Thread Summary
To study quantum mechanics independently, a solid foundation in mathematics is essential. Key areas of knowledge include differential calculus, differential equations, complex numbers, probability calculus, and particularly linear algebra, focusing on vector spaces and matrices. Familiarity with mathematical proofs is also beneficial, especially for understanding the core concepts and solving problems. Recommended resources include textbooks like Griffiths' introductory quantum mechanics and various free materials available online. While differential equations enhance comprehension, they are not always necessary for problem-solving, as integration techniques and linear algebra are more frequently applied.
wizard85
Messages
12
Reaction score
0
Hi folk, I have intention to study quantum mechanics as self-educated and so not as exam material. In order to do that, I wold know which are fundamental mathematics knowledge that one should need? I've a bachelor degree in computer science engineering and so I already have knowledge about differential calculus, differential equation, complex number, probability calculus and knowledge in physics and in particular classic physics like mechanics, electromagnetism. Could you recommend some books?
Thanks in advance. :wink:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Last edited:
I've gone through introductory QM (book by Griffiths) and I would say that the core mathematical tools used are calculus (namely integration) and linear algebra.

Of course if you are going to go through the proofs in the book you will need to be somewhat familiar with math proofs in general. Many of the problems both in the book and on our homework revolved around doing integrations, be comfortable with substitutions/integration by parts/etc.

Differential equations will greatly increase your understanding of the material, however many of the problems do not directly need it. It shows up much more in the proofs themselves.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...

Similar threads

Back
Top