An Introduction to Tensors and Group Theory for Physicists

An Introduction to Tensors and Group Theory for Physicists provides both an intuitive and rigorous approach to tensors and groups and their role in theoretical physics and applied mathematics. A particular aim is to demystify tensors and provide a unified framework for understanding them in the context of classical and quantum physics. Connecting the component formalism prevalent in physics calculations with the abstract but more conceptual formulation found in many mathematical texts, the work will be a welcome addition to the literature on tensors and group theory. Advanced undergraduate and graduate students in physics and applied mathematics will find clarity and insight into the subject in this textbook.

Table of Contents:
Part I Linear Algebra and Tensors.- A Quick Introduction to Tensors.- Vector Spaces.- Tensors.- Part II Group Theory.- Groups, Lie Groups, and Lie Algebras.- Basic Representation Theory.- The Winger-Echart Theorem and Other Applications.- Appendix Complexifications of Real Lie Algebras and the Tensor Product Decomposition of sl(2,C)R.- References.- Index.

Review :
"With An Introduction to Tensors and Group Theory for Physicists, physicist Nadir Jeevanjee has produced a masterly book that will help other physicists understand those subjects [tensors and groups] as mathematicians understand them! From the first pages, Jeevanjee shows amazing skill in finding fresh, compelling words to bring forward the insight that animates the modern mathematical view. In contrast to the usual description of a baffling beast bristling with indices, Jeevanjee describes how, as he puts it, tensors eat vectors and spit out numbers. He combines vivid use of language with coherent expositions of the detailed equations and expressions. Above all, with compelling force and clarity, he provides many carefully worked-out examples and well-chosen specific problems! Jeevanjee's clear and forceful writing presents familiar cases with a freshness that will draw in and reassure even a fearful student. He does not stint the technical details, which are nicely embedded in the text so that they connect smoothly with the larger conceptual exposition! An Introduction to Tensors and Group Theory for Physicists, written during Jeevanjee's graduate studies at the University of California, Berkeley, is a masterpiece of exposition and explanation that would win credit for even a seasoned author. One can only hope that, after this prodigious first book, he will write many more." --Physics Today "Jeevanjee's An Introduction to Tensors and Group Theory for Physicists is a valuable piece of work on several counts, including its express pedagogical service rendered to fledgling physicists and the fact that it does indeed give pure mathematicians a way to come to terms with what physicists are saying with the same words we use, but with an ostensibly different meaning: it's the same meat and potatoes, really, but the flavoring is all different. Oh yes, one more thing. The book is very easy to read, very user-friendly, full of examples...and exercises, and will do the job the author wants it to do with style. I am indeed going to use it myself, hopefully to great advantage, in my upcoming dealings with my working-group." --MAA Reviews