Trajectories And Rays The Path Summation In Quantum Mechanics And Optics I

Trajectories And Rays: The Path-summation In Quantum Mechanics And Optics I

This book presents selected topics about the path-integral method in Quantum Mechanics and Optics. Starting from an introduction to the grounds of functional integration theory, the main arguments of quantum and statistical mechanics, where the path-integral method works, are exposed. In particular, the partition function, the concept of instanton, tunneling and dissipative phenomena are analysed. The final section is devoted to selected and solved problems. This volume will be useful to beginners as well as more advanced students and researchers in the field.

Trajectories and Rays

Path Integrals in Physics

Path Integrals in Physics: Volume I, Stochastic Processes and Quantum Mechanics presents the fundamentals of path integrals, both the Wiener and Feynman type, and their many applications in physics. Accessible to a broad community of theoretical physicists, the book deals with systems possessing a infinite number of degrees in freedom. It discusses the general physical background and concepts of the path integral approach used, followed by a detailed presentation of the most typical and important applications as well as problems with either their solutions or hints how to solve them. It describes in detail various applications, including systems with Grassmann variables. Each chapter is self-contained and can be considered as an independent textbook. The book provides a comprehensive, detailed, and systematic account of the subject suitable for both students and experienced researchers.