Path Integrals and Hamiltonians: Principles and Methods
Cambridge University Press, 3/27/2014
EAN 9781107009790, ISBN10: 1107009790
Hardcover, 436 pages, 24.4 x 17 x 2.4 cm
Language: English
Providing a pedagogical introduction to the essential principles of path integrals and Hamiltonians, this book describes cutting-edge quantum mathematical techniques applicable to a vast range of fields, from quantum mechanics, solid state physics, statistical mechanics, quantum field theory, and superstring theory to financial modeling, polymers, biology, chemistry, and quantum finance. Eschewing use of the Schrödinger equation, the powerful and flexible combination of Hamiltonian operators and path integrals is used to study a range of different quantum and classical random systems, succinctly demonstrating the interplay between a system's path integral, state space, and Hamiltonian. With a practical emphasis on the methodological and mathematical aspects of each derivation, this is a perfect introduction to these versatile mathematical methods, suitable for researchers and graduate students in physics and engineering.
1. Synopsis
Part I. Fundamental Principles
2. The mathematical structure of quantum mechanics
3. Operators
4. The Feynman path integral
5. Hamiltonian mechanics
6. Path integral quantization
Part II. Stochastic Processes
7. Stochastic systems
Part III. Discrete Degrees of Freedom
8. Ising model
9. Ising model
magnetic field
10. Fermions
Part IV. Quadratic Path Integrals
11. Simple harmonic oscillators
12. Gaussian path integrals
Part V. Action with Acceleration
13. Acceleration Lagrangian
14. Pseudo-Hermitian Euclidean Hamiltonian
15. Non-Hermitian Hamiltonian
Jordan blocks
16. The quartic potential
instantons
17. Compact degrees of freedom
Index.