Mathematical Physics 2nd Edition

The goal of this book is to expose the reader to the indispensable role that mathematics plays in modern physics. Starting with the notion of vector spaces, the first half of the book develops topics as diverse as algebras, classical orthogonal polynomials, Fourier analysis, complex analysis, differential and integral equations, operator theory, and multi-dimensional Green’s functions. The second half of the book introduces groups, manifolds, Lie groups and their representations, Clifford algebras and their representations, and fibre bundles and their applications to differential geometry and gauge theories.

This second edition is a substantial revision with a complete rewriting of many chapters and the addition of new ones, including chapters on algebras, representation of Clifford algebras, fibre bundles, and gauge theories. The spirit of the first edition, namely the balance between rigour and physical application, has been maintained, as is the abundance of historical notes and worked out examples that demonstrate the “unreasonable effectiveness of mathematics” in modern physics.

“Mathematical Physics: A Modern Introduction to Its Foundations is intended for adoption in a course or a sequence of ‘methods of mathematical physics’ at the advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate level. … this is a textbook that every library must have (with a large number of copies in reserve), and it will be a valuable aid for committed students, researchers, and instructors of science and applied mathematics.” (Eleftherios Kirkinis, SIAM Review, Vol. 56 (3), September, 2014)

“Hassani uses the concept of a vector space to build all of the discussions for the basic ideas about the subject. … Hassani writes well and does a very good job of connecting the various topics presented. Each of the 30 chapters contains clear, worked-out examples and problems at the end. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-division undergraduates and graduate students.” (E. Kincanon, Choice, Vol. 51 (11), July, 2014)