Group Theory and Physics

A cohesive and well-motivated introduction to group theory and its application to physics.

S. Sternberg (Author)

9780521558853, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 7 September 1995

444 pages, 121 b/w illus.
23.9 x 18.6 x 2.7 cm, 0.79 kg

'This is a remarkable book … The author shows how physical considerations lead naturally to mathematical notions and their investigations, and how mathematical achievements influence the development of physics … I can strongly recommend the book.' European Mathematical Society Newsletter

This textbook, based on courses taught at Harvard University, is an introduction to group theory and its application to physics. The physical applications are considered as the mathematical theory is developed so that the presentation is unusually cohesive and well-motivated. Many modern topics are dealt with, and there is much discussion of the group SU(n) and its representations. This is of great significance in elementary particle physics. Applications to solid state physics are also considered. This stimulating account will prove to be an essential resource for senior undergraduate students and their teachers.

1. Basic definitions and examples
2. Representation theory of finite groups
3. Molecular vibrations and homogeneous vector bundles
4. Compact groups and Lie groups
5. Irreducible representations of SU(n)
Appendixces
Further reading
Index.

Subject Areas: Physics [PH], Groups & group theory [PBG]