From classical analytical mechanics to quantum mechanics, simulation, foundations & engineering

Quantum mechanics is a fundamental and conceptually challenging area of physics. It is usually assumed that students are unfamiliar with Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formulations of classical mechanics and the role played by probability. As a result, quantum physics is typically introduced using heuristic arguments, obscuring synergies with classical mechanics.

This book takes an alternative approach by leveraging classical analytical mechanics to facilitate a natural transition to quantum physics. By doing so, a solid foundation for understanding quantum phenomena is provided.

Key features of this textbook include:

• Mathematics and Classical Analytical Mechanics: The necessary mathematical background and classical analytical mechanics are introduced gradually, allowing readers to focus on one conceptual challenge at a time.
• Deductive Approach: Quantum mechanics is presented on the firm foundation of classical analytical mechanics, ensuring a logical progression of concepts.
• Pedagogical Features: This book includes helpful notes, worked examples, problems, computational challenges, and problem-solving approaches to enhance understanding.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Including advanced topics such as open quantum systems, phase-space methods, and computational methods for quantum physics including good programming practice and code design. Much of the code needed to reproduce figures throughout this book is included.
• Consideration of Foundations: The measurement problem and correspondence principle are addressed, including an open and critical discussion of their interpretation and consequences.
• Introduction to Quantum Systems Engineering: This is the first book to introduce Quantum Systems Engineering approaches for applied quantum technologies development.

This textbook is suitable for undergraduate students in physics and graduate students in mathematics, chemistry, engineering, and materials science.

Mark Julian Everitt is the Director of Studies for Physics at Loughborough University, UK, where he has led a comprehensive revision of the physics degrees, increasing the level of challenge, guided by principles of authenticity and industry requirements. The first seven chapters of the book are derived from his second-year introductory core Quantum Physics module in these new degrees. His research includes the engineering of quantum circuits and devices for quantum technologies, feedback, measurement and control of quantum systems, and pioneering the field of quantum systems engineering as a distinct discipline.

Kieran Niels Bjergstrom began his career as a theoretical physicist researching the realistic modelling of open quantum systems, the reliability of quantum devices, and early notions of Quantum Systems Engineering (QSE) — which was the topic of his PhD. He has worked in academia, industry and business developing QSE principles, tools and methodologies for maturing commercially relevant quantum technologies. He is director of a technology and strategy consultancy advising on areas of innovation including the strategic impact of quantum technologies, methods and policies for realising quantum technology’s commercial potential, and applied QSE.

Stephen Neil Alexander Duffus is a university teacher within the Physics Department at Loughborough University. He has an established reputation of communicating complex ideas in an engaging and accessible fashion. During his PhD, his main area of research was in open quantum systems.