A Brief Introduction to Classical, Statistical, and Quantum Mechanics (Courant Lecture Notes) [Paperback]

Oliver Buhler (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 12, 2006 | ISBN-10: 0821842323 | ISBN-13: 978-0821842324

This book provides a rapid overview of the basic methods and concepts in mechanics for beginning Ph.D. students and advanced undergraduates in applied mathematics or related fields. It is based on a graduate course given in 2006-07 at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. Among other topics, the book introduces Newton's law, action principles, Hamilton-Jacobi theory, geometric wave theory, analytical and numerical statistical mechanics, discrete and continuous quantum mechanics, and quantum path-integral methods. The focus is on fundamental mathematical methods that provide connections between seemingly unrelated subjects. An example is Hamilton-Jacobi theory, which appears in the calculus of variations, in Fermat's principle of classical mechanics, and in the geometric theory of dispersive wavetrains. The material is developed in a sequence of simple examples and the book can be used in a one-semester class on classical, statistical, and quantum mechanics. Some familiarity with differential equations is required but otherwise the book is self-contained. In particular, no previous knowledge of physics is assumed. Titles in this series are copublished with the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University.

Product Details

• Paperback: 153 pages
• Publisher: American Mathematical Society (October 12, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0821842323
• ISBN-13: 978-0821842324
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 6.6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,407,416 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.