ABSTRACT

This book provides an ideal introduction to the use of Feynman path integrals in the fields of quantum mechanics and statistical physics. It is written for graduate students and researchers in physics, mathematical physics, applied mathematics as well as chemistry. The material is presented in an accessible manner for readers with little knowledge of quantum mechanics and no prior exposure to path integrals. It begins with elementary concepts and a review of quantum mechanics that gradually builds the framework for the Feynman path integrals and how they are applied to problems in quantum mechanics and statistical physics. Problem sets throughout the book allow readers to test their understanding and reinforce the explanations of the theory in real situations.

Features:

  • Comprehensive and rigorous yet, presents an easy-to-understand approach.
  • Applicable to a wide range of disciplines.
  • Accessible to those with little, or basic, mathematical understanding.

chapter 1|12 pages

Path Integral Formalism Intuitive Approach

chapter 2|15 pages

Matrix Representation of Linear Operators

chapter 3|6 pages

Operators in Phase Space

chapter 4|18 pages

Transition Amplitude

chapter 6|13 pages

Generalized Feynman Path Integration

chapter 8|34 pages

Quasi-Classical Approximation

chapter 9|9 pages

Free Particle and Harmonic Oscillator

chapter 11|19 pages

Path Integral Perturbation Theory

chapter 12|5 pages

Transition Matrix Element

chapter 13|10 pages

Functional Derivative

chapter 17|7 pages

Feynman Variational Method

chapter 18|100 pages

Polaron Theory

chapter 21|25 pages

Kinetic Theory of Gases