Basic Theoretical Physics

This textbook on theoretical physics (I-IV) is based on lectures held by one of the authors at the University of Regensburg in Germany. The four ‘canonical’ parts of the subject have been condensed here into a single volume with the following main sections :

I = Mechanics and Basic Relativity;

II = Electrodynamics and Aspects of Optics;

III = Quantum Mechanics (non-relativistic theory), and IV = Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics.

Our compendium is intended primarily for revision purposes and/or to aid in a deeper understanding of the subject. For an introduction to theoretical physics many standard series of textbooks, often containing seven or more volumes, are already available (see, for example, [1]).

Exercises closely adapted to the book can be found on one of the authors websites [2], and these may be an additional help.

We have laid emphasis on relativity and other contributions by Einstein, since the year 2005 commemorated the centenary of three of his ground- breaking theories.

In Part II (Electrodynamics) we have also treated some aspects with which every physics student should be familiar, but which are usually neglected in textbooks, e.g., the principles behind cellular (or mobile) phone technology, synchrotron radiation and holography. Similarly, Part III (Quantum Mechan- ics) additionally covers aspects of quantum computing and quantum cryp- tography.

We have been economical with figures and often stimulate the reader to sketch his or her own diagrams. The frequent use of italics and quotation marks throughout the text is to indicate to the reader where a term is used in a specialized way. The Index contains useful keywords for ease of reference.

Finally we are indebted to the students and colleagues who have read parts of the manuscript and to our respective wives for their considerable support.

Regensburg, Uwe Krey May 2007