Seeking advice about a quantum mechanics self-study plan

[markusher]

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Hello,

I am a semi-retired management consultant specializing in procurement and supply chain. Most of my work involves collection and analysis of a company's procurement data and identification of value creation opportunities from initiatives such as strategic sourcing, procurement process improvement, and supply chain integration.

My primary reason for joining this forum is to "reboot" my physics education following VERY many years away. In particular I would like to focus on quantum mechanics, my goal being to elevate my understanding of superposition, entanglement and tunneling above the level of YouTube videos!

With regard to my background, I took A-levels in physics, chemistry and maths back in 1979 and got my BSc in aeronautical engineering in 1982. I then spent ten years as an aerospace engineer in the UK and the US (where I now live) before taking an MBA in Finance and becoming a management consultant. In summary, my educational and work background is very quantitative and analytical but my formal education in science and maths is very old.

My initial thought is to create a reading list and personal study plan that first refreshes me in the required classical physics grounding and then moves on to general and special relativity, and quantum mechanics. Having said this, I am very open to other ideas or input about the optimum way for me to proceed in my quantum physics education!

 

[Frabjous]

Given your background, I would browse an intermediate (junior) textbook and see if you can handle it. The standard reference is Griffiths. There are plenty of threads here that suggest alternatives. I’ve been happy with abebooks, amazon and ebay for used textbooks.

If the book is too advanced, you will then need to develop a study plan to get there. Something to pay attention to is if the book is too advanced because of knowledge gaps or because you need more physics maturity.

 

[markusher]

Thank you so much! I'll make a start on that junior textbook and see how I get on. Thanks again.

 

[marcusl]

40+ years since any STEM classes? I’d start with a review of E&M, which will reacquaint you with vector calculus, differential equations, coordinate systems, a bit of complex variables, etc., in addition to E&M. Griffiths’ EM text is a standard. If you can’t work the problems, you might need to back up some more. Revisiting linear algebra, especially matrix operations and eigenvalues, can also be helpful.