Like rocket science or brain surgery, quantum mechanics is pigeonholed as a daunting and inaccessible topic, which is best left to an elite or peculiar few. This classification was not earned without some degree of merit. Depending on perspective; quantum mechanics is a discipline or philosophy, a convention or conundrum, an answer or question. Authors have run the gamut from hand waving to heavy handed in hopes to dispel the common beliefs about quantum mechanics, but perhaps they continue to promulgate the stigma.
The focus of this particular effort is to give the reader an introduction, if not at least an appreciation, of the role that linear algebra techniques play in the practical application of quantum mechanical methods. It interlaces aspects of the classical and quantum picture, including a number of both worked and parallel applications. Students with no prior experience in quantum mechanics, motivated graduate students, or researchers in other areas attempting to gain some introduction to quantum theory will find particular interest in this book.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Motion in Matter
3. Vibrating Matter
4. Rotating Matter
5. Translating Matter
6. Quantum Translation
7. Interpreting Quantum Mechanics
8. Quantum Rotation
9. Quantum Vibration
10. Variational Methods
11. Electrons in Atoms
12. Perturbation Theory
13. Electrons in Molecules
Appendix 1. Physical Constants and Units
Appendix 2. Calculus and Trigonometry Essentials
About the Author(s)
William Parkinson, Southeastern Louisiana University
Bill Parkinson obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Florida’s Quantum Theory Project in 1989, where he had the great fortune of rubbing elbows with the world’s leading experts in computational chemistry during some of the field’s most formative years. After postdoctoral positions at Odense University (now Syddansk Universitet, the University of Southern Denmark) and Texas A&M;, he joined the faculty of Southeastern Louisiana University in 1991. His pastimes and passions include yard work, biking, volleyball, the beach, and Pittsburgh Steeler football.
