Variational principles and methods in theoretical physics and chemistry / Robert K. Nesbet.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Nesbet, R. K., author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Calculus of variations.

Mathematical physics.

Chemistry, Physical and theoretical--Mathematics.

Chemistry, Physical and theoretical.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (xiv, 229 pages) : digital, PDF file(s).

Edition:

1st ed.

Other Title:

Variational Principles & Methods in Theoretical Physics & Chemistry

Place of Publication:

Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2003.

Language Note:

English

Summary:

This book brings together the essential ideas and methods behind 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.

Contents:

I. Classical mathematics and physics

1. History of variational theory

2. Classical mechanics

3. Applied mathematics

II. Bound states in quantum mechanics

4. Time-independent quantum mechanics

5. Independent-electron models

6. Time-dependent theory and linear response

III. Continuum states and scattering theory

7. Multiple scattering theory for molecules and solids

8. Variational methods for continuum states

9. Electron-impact rovibrational excitation of molecules

IV. Field theories

10. Relativistic Lagrangian theories.

Notes:

Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 05 Oct 2015).

Includes bibliographical references (p. 205-223) and index.

ISBN:

1-107-13095-6

1-280-43335-3

9786610433353

0-511-17828-X

0-511-04162-4

0-511-14877-1

0-511-30551-6

0-511-53516-3

0-511-04386-4

OCLC:

437432476