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Quantum Mechanics

Quantum Mechanics

Quantum Mechanics

Lectures on Theoretical Physics
Volume 3:
David Tong, University of Cambridge
June 2025
3
Hardback
9781009594820
$110.00
USD
Hardback
USD
Paperback

    The universe we live in is both strange and interesting. This strangeness comes about because, at the most fundamental level, the universe is governed by the laws of quantum mechanics. This is the most spectacularly accurate and powerful theory ever devised, one that has given us insights into many aspects of the world, from the structure of matter to the meaning of information. This textbook provides a comprehensive account of all things quantum. It starts by introducing the wavefunction and its interpretation as an ephemeral wave of complex probability, before delving into the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics and exploring its diverse applications, from atomic physics and scattering, to quantum computing. Designed to be accessible, this volume is suitable for both students and researchers, beginning with the basics before progressing to more advanced topics.

    • Quantum Mechanics is the third volume in a series of textbooks covering the core topics in theoretical physics
    • Covers all aspects of quantum mechanics, from the initial discussion of the wavefunction to advanced topics such as the path integral and quantum computation
    • Contains material ranging from topics taught to first-year undergraduates to those covered in third-year courses, and even content beyond the typical undergraduate curriculum
    • Includes a wealth of examples and illustrations making it an invaluable resource for both undergraduates and researchers
    • Numerous homework exercises for the book are available online

    Reviews & endorsements

    'This is theoretical physics 'done right'. The author's love of the subject and its history, as well as its results, shines through. The definitions and derivations are clean, but never dry. For students of modern physical science, these volumes will be a rich source of instruction, insight - and joy.' Frank Wilczek, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

    'David Tong is one of those physicists who comes along only rarely. He unrelentingly dives into all fields of physics, recognising the often underappreciated unity of the body of knowledge that exists. He is a master of technical detail along with the essential underlying physical principles. In this series he covers much of the undergraduate and graduate curriculum with clarity and humour, and I often find myself looking up his books or using his efforts to teach better myself.' Lisa Randall, Harvard University

    'This is a wonderful set of textbooks. A dynamic and engaging introduction to theoretical physics with a very modern emphasis.' Juan Maldacena, Institute of Advanced Study, Princeton

    'These books are an invaluable gift to physics students of all ages. It's probably impossible for a series of books to cover everything a physicist needs to know, but this is as close as you're going to get - all explained with David Tong's characteristic clarity and verve. I can't recommend them highly enough.' Sean Carroll, Johns Hopkins University, and author of Spacetime and Geometry: An Introduction to General Relativity

    'The books in this textbook series are destined to become classics and will be immensely popular among students and researchers alike. The writing is clear and accessible, and the style is engaging and witty. One cannot resist a comparison to the authoritative and deeply insightful set of books by Landau and Lifshitz. This series, aimed at an even broader audience, may well prove to be equally influential, establishing a 'theoretical minimum' to which all physicists should aspire. I cannot wait for the other volumes to appear.' Sandip Trivedi, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai

    'David Tong's series brilliantly combines deep physical understanding with masterful teaching. Delivering a thorough, wide-ranging, and current view of physics, it effectively updates Landau and Lifshitz's renowned Course of Theoretical Physics. This series is highly recommended as both excellent course material and an essential resource for students and advanced researchers, and I am confident it will achieve classic status.' Nathan Seiberg, Institute of Advanced Study, Princeton

    'These volumes are brilliant gems, lovingly crafted in language that sparkles and enlightens. Moreover, the cross-referencing of topics, as well as the prefiguring of advanced concepts, allow students to appreciate the unity of theoretical physics in a way no individual textbook could. For the rest of us, the books rekindle the zing we felt when we first encountered these subjects, with numerous shiny new nuggets as a bonus. A Landau and Lifshitz for the twenty-first century, only more inviting and human this time.' Rajesh Gopakumar, International Centre for Theoretical Sciences, Bangalore

    See more reviews

    Product details

    June 2025
    Hardback
    9781009594820
    700 pages
    254 × 178 mm
    Not yet published - available from July 2025

    Table of Contents

    • 1. The Wavefunction
    • 2. A Quantum Particle in One Dimension
    • 3. The Formalism of Quantum Mechanics
    • 4. A Qubit
    • 5. The Harmonic Oscillator
    • 6. A Quantum Particle in Three Dimensions
    • 7. Symmetries
    • 8. Identical Particles
    • 9. Particles in a Magnetic Field
    • 10. Approximation Methods
    • 11. Hamiltonians with Time Dependence
    • 12. Atoms
    • 13. Atoms in Electromagnetic Fields
    • 14. Scattering Theory
    • 15. The Path Integral
    • 16. Quantum Foundations
    • 17. Quantum Computation.
      Author
    • David Tong , University of Cambridge

      David Tong is a Professor of Theoretical Physics at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Trinity College. He is known for his contributions to quantum field theory and its application to diverse areas of physics, including particle physics, condensed matter, cosmology, and quantum gravity. His lecture notes on theoretical physics have gained a global following due to their clear explanations and easy-going, accessible style.