Synopses & Reviews
Relativistic Quantum Mechanics - Wave Equations concentrates mainly on the wave equations for spin-0 and spin-1/2 particles. The first chapter deals with the Klein-Gordon equation and its properties and applications. The chapters that follow introduce the Dirac equation, investigate its covariance properties, and present various approaches to obtaining solutions. Numerous applications are discussed in detail, including the two-centre Dirac equation, hole theory, CPT symmetry, Klein's paradox, and relativistic symmetry principles. Relativistic wave equations for higher spin (Proca, Rarita-Schwinger, and Bargmann-Wigner) are also presented. The extensive presentation of the mathematical tools and the 62 worked examples and problems make this a unique text for an advanced quantum mechanics course. This third edition has been slightly revised to bring the text up-to-date.
Synopsis
This revised and up to date classic reference lays the foundation for subsequent studies in advanced quantum mechanics and field theory, offering problems and solutions to guide readers through Greiner's lecture texts. Includes 87 worked examples and exercises. 443 p.
Table of Contents
Relativistic Wave Equation for Spin-0 Particles. The Klein-Gordon Equation and Its Applications.- A Wave Equation for Spin-1/2 Particles - The Dirac Equation.- Lorentz-Covariance of the Dirac Equation.- Spinors under Spatial Reflection.- Bilinear Covariants of the Dirac Spinors.- Another Way of Constructing Solutions of the Free Dirac Equation.- Projection Operators for Energy and Spin.- Wave Packets of Plane Dirac Waves.- Dirac Particles in External Fields: Examples and Problems.- The Two-Centre Dirac Equation.- The Foldy-Wouthuysen Representation for Free Particles.- The Hole Theory.- Klein's Paradox.- The Weyl Equation - The Neutrino.- Wave Equations for Particles with Arbitrary Spins.- Lorentz Invariance and Relativistic Symmetry Principles.