Primer for Point and Space Groups

Written in the spirit of Liboff's acclaimed text on Quantum Mechanics, this introduction to group theory offers an exceptionally clear presentation with a good sense of what to explain, which examples are most appropriate, and when to give a counter-example.

Review :
From the reviews: "I teach a course which involves symmetry and point groups so I was especially pleased to have been asked to do this review. The material is covered succinctly but in surprising depth for the size of the volume. The text is clear throughout and the nomenclature is consistent. It is more likely to provide a solid background for researchers and postgraduate students entering a new field or undergraduates dealing with advanced topics which are especially group theory intensive." (Contemporary Physics, Vol. 46 (4), July-August, 2005) "This small volume may prove most useful to the lecturer in symmetry and/or group theory who will find many brief, interesting, and unusual ideas and approaches to many of different topics. The individual chapters are followed by interesting questions that are designed to extend the applications discussed in the chapter. Again these questions will surely prove useful to the lecturer for future lectures and exams!" (Gary J. Long, Fernande Grandjean, Physicalia, Vol. 57 (3), 2005) "Liboff s book provides a general introduction to the subject with applications in quantum mechanics and solid state physics. A distinguishing feature of the book is the generous use of figures and illustrations . The book could be used in a short course on group theory or to supplement courses on quantum mechanics or solid state physics. It also provides a relatively painless introduction to the subject for those who need to learn it later in life." (Serdar Kuyucak, The Physicist, Vol. 41 (5), 2004) "Written in the spirit of Liboff s text on quantum mechanics, the book is an introductory text for undergraduates in physics, engineering, materials science, and chemistry. With its selection and arrangement of examples, the book traces at every turn the physical implications of abstract concepts. It provides a solid background for those students who expect to use group theory in nuclear and particle physics and other specific applications." (Zentralbl