That's great to hear that you have a passion for quantum mechanics and want to become an expert in the field! Quantum mechanics is a fascinating subject with a rich history and numerous applications. To start your journey towards studying quantum mechanics and quantum field theory (QFT), here are some steps you can follow:
Strengthen Your Mathematical Foundation: Quantum mechanics and QFT heavily rely on mathematical concepts such as linear algebra, calculus, and differential equations. Make sure you have a solid understanding of these topics, as they form the language of quantum mechanics.
Start with Introductory Textbooks: Begin by studying introductory textbooks on quantum mechanics. Some popular choices include "Principles of Quantum Mechanics" by R. Shankar, "Quantum Mechanics: Concepts and Applications" by Nouredine Zettili, or "Quantum Mechanics and Path Integrals" by Richard P. Feynman and Albert R. Hibbs.
Engage in Online Courses: Explore online platforms such as Coursera, edX, or Udemy, which offer various courses on quantum mechanics and related subjects. Some recommended courses are "Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Computation" by Umesh Vazirani on edX and "Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers" by Prof. David Miller on Coursera.
Supplement with Lectures and Video Lectures: Look for lecture series and video lectures by renowned physicists available on platforms like YouTube. Lectures by Richard Feynman, Leonard Susskind, or David Tong are highly regarded and can provide valuable insights.
Dive into Quantum Field Theory: Once you have grasped the fundamentals of quantum mechanics, you can start exploring quantum field theory. Books like "Quantum Field Theory for the Gifted Amateur" by Tom Lancaster and Stephen J. Blundell or "Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell" by A. Zee can serve as good starting points.
Practice Problem Solving: Solving problems is crucial to understanding and mastering quantum mechanics and QFT. Look for problem sets in textbooks or online resources, and work through them to reinforce your understanding of the concepts.
Engage in Research and Academic Opportunities: As you progress, consider seeking research opportunities or participating in academic programs related to quantum mechanics. Universities often offer undergraduate research programs or summer schools that focus on quantum physics.
Stay Updated with Current Research: Quantum mechanics and QFT are active areas of research, with new discoveries and advancements regularly being made. Stay connected to scientific journals, preprint archives (such as arXiv), and online communities to keep up with the latest developments in the field.
Remember, studying quantum mechanics and QFT is a challenging endeavor that requires persistence and dedication. Keep exploring, asking questions, and seeking opportunities to deepen your knowledge. Good luck on your journey to becoming an expert in quantum mechanics!