Basic Concepts In Quantum Mechanics | A. Kompaneyets

This supplementary book is intended for introductory physics courses. It is assumed that the student has already studied the elementary concepts of wave motion, since the author feels that such concepts are basic to the understanding of quantum theory. The author’s aim is to show that the basic concepts of quantum mechanics can be defined without re­ course to higher mathematics. The main difficulty for the reader will lie here in assimilating some of the entirely novel concepts associated with quantum mechanics. Should he prove equal to the challenge, an unparalleled achievement of the human mind will be his to contemplate—a unique feat that has altered all of our ideas on the nature of motion.

The exposition of material in this book follows a systematic conceptual, rather than historic, sequence. Ideas presented in their logical continuity will be grasped more fully. As we go along, however, an occasional excursion into history proves to be useful. The inevitable evolution of ideas can be better understood when viewed in retrospect.