Beautifully illustrated and engagingly written, Twelve Lectures in Quantum Mechanics presents theoretical physics with a breathtaking array of examples and anecdotes. Basdevant’s style is clear and stimulating, in the manner of a brisk lecture that can be followed with ease and enjoyment. Here is a sample of the book’s style, from the opening of Chapter 1: "If one were to ask a passer-by to quote a great formula of physics, chances are that the answer would be ‘E = mc2’.... There is no way around it: all physics is quantum, from elementary particles, to stellar physics and the Big Bang, not to mention semiconductors and solar cells."
The new edition of this remarkable text offers the reader a conceptually strong introduction to quantum mechanics, but goes beyond this to present a fascinating tour of modern theoretical physics. Beautifully illustrated and engagingly written, it starts with a brief overview of diverse topics across physics including nanotechnology, statistical physics, materials science, astrophysics, and cosmology.
The core of the book covers both established and emerging aspects of quantum mechanics. A concise introduction to traditional quantum mechanics covers the Schrödinger equation, Hilbert space, the algebra of observables, hydrogen atom, spin and Pauli principle. Modern features of the field are presented by exploring entangled states, Bell's inequality, quantum cryptography, quantum teleportation and quantum mechanics in the universe. This new edition has been enchanced through the addition of numerous problems with detailed solutions, an introduction to the mathematical tools needed and expanded discussion of the state-of-the-art in applications of quantum mechanics.
Reviews of the 1st Edition:
“This stimulating book on quantum mechanics documents many of the lively introduetory lectures given by Jean-Louis Basdevant during the past 25 years...written in a very engaging manner with regular mention of interesting applications and events and personages in the history of quantum mechanics...An insightful discussion is given of the methodology involved in the construction of quantum theory...” (Howard E. Brandt, Mathematical Reviews)
"The strength of the book lies in Bedevant’s obvious talent as a lecturer. He is engaging and interesting and uses a wide variety of examples and sources. ... These are interesting lectures and would be useful to anyone interested in an advanced introduction, or a review, of the topic." (E. Kincanon, CHOICE)
"This textbook presents theoretical physics with a breathtaking array of examples and anecdotes. The author’s style is clear and stimulating, in the manner of a brisk classroom lecture that students can follow with ease and enjoyment. The book is written in physical language, without the excessive mathematics." (Vladimir Dzhunushaliev, Zentralblatt MATH)
