Learning Quantum Mechanics with Dirac: Understanding Ket Vectors

[Einstein's Cat]

I'm attempting to learn the mathematics of quantum mechanics using textbooks such as "The Principles of Quantum Mechanics" by Dirac. I'm uncertain however of how ket vectors work! Say |A> + |B> = |C>, then what does |C> please represent?

 

[Nugatory]

I'm attempting to learn the mathematics of quantum mechanics using textbooks such as "The Principles of Quantum Mechanics" by Dirac. I'm uncertain however of how ket vectors work! Say |A> + |B> = |C>, then what does |C> please represent?

If you are not familiar with the mathematical concept of a "vector space", you'll want to check that out.

 

[strangerep]

I'm attempting to learn the mathematics of quantum mechanics using textbooks such as "The Principles of Quantum Mechanics" by Dirac.

Dirac is not easy to learn from. Try Ballentine.

I'm uncertain however of how ket vectors work! Say |A> + |B> = |C>, then what does |C> please represent?

If |A> and |B> denote possible states of a system, then the sum denotes another possible state of that system.

 

[bhobba]

Dirac is not easy to learn from. Try Ballentine.

I totally concur.

I actually learned it from Dirac and Von Neumann. I wish I didn't. It would be much better to start with Ballentine then read those two seminal texts.

I get the feeling though your math may not be up to Ballentine. In that case I suggest you work your way up in the following order:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0465062903/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0071765638/?tag=pfamazon01-20
https://www.amazon.com/dp/146157675X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Then you can tackle Ballentine.

It may seem like a lot of work but remember its not a race. Take your time and cement your understanding.

Thanks
Bill

 

[Einstein's Cat]

Thank you all very much for your help