Photons and Atoms

Photons and Atoms

Photons and Atoms: Introduction to Quantum Electrodynamics provides the necessary background to understand the various physical processes associated with photon-atom interactions. It starts with elementary quantum theory and classical electrodynamics and progresses to more advanced approaches. A critical comparison is made between these different, although equivalent, formulations of quantum electrodynamics.

Using this format, the reader is offered a gradual, yet flexible introduction to quantum electrodynamics, avoiding formal discussions and excessive shortcuts. Complementing each chapter are numerous examples and exercises that can be used independently from the rest of the book to extend each chapter in many disciplines depending on the interests and needs of the reader.

Ein Buch für fortgeschrittene Anfänger auf dem Gebiet der quantentheoretischen Elektrodynamik. Zunächst wird die elementare Quantentheorie und klassische Elektrodynamik behandelt,dann die Theorie niederenergetischer Wechselwirkungen zwischen Materie und Strahlung und abschließend der mathematische Aspekt dieses Themas. Der Autor vermittelt notwendiges Grundwissen über die Dynamik des elektromagnetischen Feldes und liefert verschiedene theoretische Ansätze. Damit schließt dieses Buch nun eine Lücke, denn die Literatur für Laseroptik und Feldtheorie hatte das Thema bisher nur gestreift. (10/97) Classical Electrodynamics: The Fundamental Equations and the Dynamical Variables

Lagrangian and Hamiltonian Approach to Electrodynamics

The Standard Lagrangian and the Coulomb Gauge

Quantum Electrodynamics in the Coulomb Gauge

Other Equivalent Formulations of Electrodynamics

Introduction to the Covariant Formulation of Quantum Electrodynamics

References

Index.