Quantum Mechanics and Electrodynamics

This book highlights the power and elegance of algebraic methods of solving problems in quantum mechanics. It shows that symmetries not only provide elegant solutions to problems that can be solved exactly, but also substantially simplify problems that must be solved approximately. Furthermore, the book provides an elementary exposition of quantum electrodynamics and its application to low-energy physics, along with a thorough analysis of the role of relativistic, magnetic, and quantum electrodynamic effects in atomic spectroscopy. Included are essential derivations made clear through detailed, transparent calculations. The book’s commitment to deriving advanced results with elementary techniques, as well as its inclusion of exercises will enamor it to advanced undergraduate and graduate students. Front Matter ....Pages i-xxvi Foundations of Quantum Mechanics (Jaroslav Zamastil, Jakub Benda)....Pages 1-43 Approximate Methods in Quantum Mechanics (Jaroslav Zamastil, Jakub Benda)....Pages 45-58 The Hydrogen Atom and Structure of Its Spectral Lines (Jaroslav Zamastil, Jakub Benda)....Pages 59-107 Treasures Hidden in Commutators (Jaroslav Zamastil, Jakub Benda)....Pages 109-152 The Helium Atom (Jaroslav Zamastil, Jakub Benda)....Pages 153-188 Dynamics: The Nonrelativistic Theory (Jaroslav Zamastil, Jakub Benda)....Pages 189-289 Dynamics: The Relativistic Theory (Jaroslav Zamastil, Jakub Benda)....Pages 291-430 Back Matter ....Pages 431-464