Julian Schwinger Libros

Julian Schwinger had plans to write a textbook on quantum mechanics since the 1950s when he was teaching the subject at Harvard University regularly. * t Roger Newton remembers: [A] group of us (Stanley Deser, Dick Arnowitt, Chuck Zemach, Paul Martin and I forgot who else) wrote up lecture notes on his Quantum Mechanics course but he never wanted them published because he „had not yet found the perfect way to do quantum mechanics. “ The only text of those days that got published eventually - following a sug gestion by, and with the help of, Robert Kohler:!: - were the notes to the lectures that Schwinger presented at Les Houches in 1955. The book was reissued in 1991, with this Special Preface by Schwinger [3]: The first two chapters of this book are devoted to Quantum Kine matics. In 1985 I had the opportunity to review that development in connection with the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Hermann Weyl's birthday. [ . . . ] In presenting my lecture [4] I felt the need to alter only one thing: the notation. Lest one think this rather triv ial, recall that the ultimate abandonment, early in the 19th century, of Newton's method of fluxions in favor of the Leibnizian calculus, stemmed from the greater flexibility of the latter's notation.

The book expands on Dr. Schwinger's earlier works by adding four new sections that delve deeper into topics related to electrodynamics. It builds upon previous discussions of the two-particle problem and explores applications in hydrogenic atoms, positronium, and muonium, providing a comprehensive understanding of these advanced concepts in theoretical physics.

Focusing on quantum electrodynamics, this first volume explores techniques that highlight the interconnectedness of high-energy particle physics with electrodynamics, gravitational theory, and many-particle cooperative phenomena. It showcases the foundational contributions of Julian Schwinger, a Nobel laureate, emphasizing his influence in the field. The book serves as an essential resource for understanding complex physical concepts and their relationships within advanced theoretical frameworks.

The book showcases Schwinger's distinctive lecturing style, emphasizing a logical progression of concepts in classical electrodynamics. This anniversary edition refreshes the content while preserving the original voice and clarity of Schwinger's teachings, making it a valuable resource for students and enthusiasts of the subject.

Set during World War II, the narrative explores Julian Schwinger's pivotal role at MIT's Radiation Laboratory, where he focused on radar technology rather than nuclear weapons. At just 25, he sought a less structured environment, contrasting with his previous experiences in more regimented settings. The lab's work on microwave technology was crucial for the war effort, showcasing Schwinger's iconoclastic approach and significant contributions to science. His decision to join the Rad Lab reflects his preference for impactful innovation over military applications of nuclear physics.

A concise treatment by the future winner of the 1965 Nobel Prize in Physics, this work was first published under the auspices of the United States Atomic Energy Commission in 1952