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Focusing on the transition from classical to quantum mechanics, the book provides a historical overview and essential concepts for undergraduate students. It begins with classical electrodynamics and the Hamiltonian formulation, crucial for understanding this shift. The narrative traces significant developments, including Einstein's derivation of the Planck radiation law and Heisenberg's pivotal 1925 paper that established quantum mechanics. Designed to be both pedagogical and historical, it appeals to students, physicists, and historians alike.

This book highlights the power and elegance of algebraic methods of solving problems in quantum mechanics. It shows that symmetries not only provide elegant solutions to problems that can be solved exactly, but also substantially simplify problems that must be solved approximately. Furthermore, the book provides an elementary exposition of quantum electrodynamics and its application to low-energy physics, along with a thorough analysis of the role of relativistic, magnetic, and quantum electrodynamic effects in atomic spectroscopy. Included are essential derivations made clear through detailed, transparent calculations. The book’s commitment to deriving advanced results with elementary techniques, as well as its inclusion of exercises will enamor it to advanced undergraduate and graduate students.