Variational Principles and Methods in Theoretical Physics and Chemistry - Softcover

Nesbet, Robert K.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521675758 ISBN 13: 9780521675758

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2005

Synopsis

This book consolidates and brings up to date the variational theory and methods currently used in many branches of theoretical physics and chemistry. The text surveys essential ideas and methods, concentrating on theory as used in applications rather than on fine points of rigorous mathematics. Essential concepts are developed in a common notation and from a uniform critical point of view. Examples of important applications are reviewed in sufficient detail to provide the reader with a critical understanding of context and methodology.

About this title

Book Description

A thorough introduction to variational theory as applied to physics and chemistry, introducing the fundamental mathematical concepts and applications, providing the reader with a critical understanding of context and methodology. Amongst other topics, the book covers computational methods in quantum theory and discusses the methodology underlying density functional theory.

Synopsis

This book brings together the essential ideas and methods behind current applications of variational theory in theoretical physics and chemistry. The emphasis is on understanding physical and computational applications of variational methodology rather than on rigorous mathematical formalism. The text begins with an historical survey of familiar variational principles in classical mechanics and optimization theory, then proceeds to develop the variational principles and formalism behind current computational methodology for bound and continuum quantum states of interacting electrons in atoms, molecules, and condensed matter. It covers multiple-scattering theory, including a detailed presentation of contemporary methodology for electron-impact rotational and vibrational excitation of molecules. The book ends with an introduction to the variational theory of relativistic fields. Ideal for graduate students and researchers in any field that uses variational methodology, this book is particularly suitable as a backup reference for lecture courses in mathematical methods in physics and theoretical chemistry.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521675758
• ISBN 13: 9780521675758
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 244