A new edition of a foundational overview of quantum mechanics. This book presents a concise summary of nonrelativistic quantum mechanics for physics students at the university level. The text covers essential topics, from general mathematical formalism to specific applications. The formulation of quantum theory is explained and supported with illustrations of the general concepts of elementary quantum systems. In addition to traditional topics of nonrelativistic quantum mechanics—including single-particle dynamics, symmetries, semiclassical and perturbative approximations, density-matrix formalism, scattering theory, and the theory of angular momentum—the book also covers modern issues, among them quantum entanglement, decoherence, measurement, nonlocality, and quantum information. The historical context and chronology of basic achievements are also outlined in explanatory notes. Ideal as a supplement to classroom lectures, A Condensed Course of Quantum Mechanics will also serve as a compact and comprehensible refresher of elementary quantum theory for more advanced students.
