Quantum Mechanics or General Relativity

[BFM_Edison]

So, I've been wanting to study one of these two in my free time, and since I've been in the mood of adding onto my academic load (9 classes now...), I want to do it now Anyways, I only want to do one at a time, and I might start the other during summer, but I was looking for some input on which to start first. I know Multi-variable Calculus already, so the math won't be a problem. Gracias.

[jim360]

Depends what you're interested in. On one hand, QM is a right mess of complicated maths, bizarre concepts and "fuzzy parts" which seem downright bizarre, whereas GR is "just" complicated four-dimensional geometry of space-time but makes sense.

My pick would be QM, since conceptually it's harder so should be more fun. Go for it man!!!

[BFM_Edison]

Any ideas for good books, or should I look one/some up on my own? Not $150 like my Linear Algebra book, preferably...

[jim360]

Well, while it is a little out of date a book that deals with the conepts in QM that I can recommend is "IN search of Schrodinger's Cat" and the sequel "Schrodinger's Kittens" both by John Gribbin. I think teh two would come to about $25 - 30 so it's not too bad.

For the maths side, I'll get back to you if I remember to check out the library tomorrow.

[BFM_Edison]

Hahaha, I love those titles.

[BFM_Edison]

I looked up what one of my top college choices had for their textbooks, and I found this: A Modern Approach to Quantum Mechanics by John S. Townsend (a Harvey Mudd professor, nonetheless). Do you know anything about it?

[Plixity]

If I had the knowledge (which I hope I will someday!) I personally would go for QM because I find it more interesting, but you should look both them up and try to imagine what you would want to do more!

Just my

[jim360]

As I say, let me get back to you - I'll remember to browse the college library tomorrow.

[jim360]

Here are a few books I could find that the library had several copies of - always a good sign I think.

Sakurai, Modern Quantum Mechanics (revised) 1994
McMurray, Quantum Mechanics, 1994
Omnes, The Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics, 1994
Schultz, A First Course in General Relativity, 1989
Wald, General Relatvity, 1984

Hopefully you'll be able to find them, and they shouldn't be too expensive.

[BFM_Edison]

The first one was around $100, and I couldn't find the second one on even Amazon, oddly enough. Third one runs about $50 I think, though one of the reviews recommended Understanding Quantum Mechanics by Roland Omnes, so I was wondering if you knew anything about that one.

[jim360]

'Fraid not, although the author is prolific in the field clearly.

I guess these sorts of books are always likely to be expensive, and they're quite specialist so they may be hard to get hold of. Best to grin and bear the cost, I guess - or hope that you can find a library that stocks them.