A Condensed Course of Quantum Mechanics

Anotace

The book represents a concise summary of non-relativistic quantum theory and its applications on the level suitable for university students of physics. It is intended as a supplement to an intensive one-year course of quantum theory, requiring basic knowledge of calculus, algebra, classical mechanics and a bit of motivation for the quantum adventure. It may also be used by more advanced students as a compact overview. The exposition is succinct, with minimal narration, but with a maximum of explicit and hierarchically structured mathematical derivations.  The book covers all essential topics of basic quantum mechanics – from general mathematical formalism to specific applications. The formulation of quantum theory is accompanied by illustrations of the general concepts in elementary systems. Some subtleties of mathematical foundations are overviewed, but the formalism is used in an accessible, intuitive way. Besides the traditional topics – such as single-particle dynamics, symmetries, theory of angular momentum, density-matrix formalism, perturbative approximations, scattering theory, description of many-body systems – the course also touches upon some modern issues, including quantum entanglement, decoherence, measurement, nonlocality, artificial systems and quantum information. Historical context is outlined in brief remarks. The second revised and extended edition provides more detailed and user-friendly presentations and also new explanations and themes. It offers a more balanced and comprehensible introduction to both traditional topics and modern developments in quantum theory.