Although introduced30 years ago, the J-matrix method has witnessed a resurgence of interest in the last few years. In fact, the interest never ceased, as some authors have found in this method an effective way of handling the continuous spectrum of scattering operators, in addition to other operators. The motivation behind the introduction of the J-matrix method will be presented in brief. The introduction of fast computing machines enabled theorists to perform cal- lations, although approximate, in a conveniently short period of time. This made it possible to study varied scenarios and models, and the effects that different possible parameters have on the ?nal results of such calculations. The ?rst area of research that bene?ted from this opportunity was the structural calculation of atomic and nuclear systems. The Hamiltonian element of the system was set up as a matrix in a convenient, ?nite, bound-state-like basis. A matrix of larger size resulted in a better con?guration interaction matrix that was subsequently diagonalized. The discrete energy eigenvalues thus obtained approximated the spectrum of the system, while the eigenfunctions approximated the wave function of the resulting discrete state. Structural theorists were delighted because they were able to obtain very accurate values for the lowest energy states of interest.

A graduate-level text that examines the semiclassical approach to quantum mechanics Physical systems have been traditionally described in terms of either classical or quantum mechanics. But in recent years, semiclassical methods have developed rapidly, providing deep physical insight and computational tools for quantum dynamics and spectroscopy. In this book, Eric Heller introduces and develops this subject, demonstrating its power with many examples. In the first half of the book, Heller covers relevant aspects of classical mechanics, building from them the semiclassical way through the semiclassical limit of the Feynman path integral. The second half of the book applies this approach to various kinds of spectroscopy, such as molecular spectroscopy and electron imaging and quantum dynamical systems with an emphasis on tunneling. Adopting a distinctly time-dependent viewpoint, Heller argues for semiclassical theories from experimental and theoretical vantage points valuable to research in physics and chemistry. Featuring more than two hundred figures, the book provides a geometric, phase-space, and coordinate-space pathway to greater understanding. Filled with practical examples and applications, The Semiclassical Way to Dynamics and Spectroscopy is a comprehensive presentation of the tools necessary to successfully delve into this unique area of quantum mechanics. A comprehensive approach for using classical mechanics to do quantum mechanics More than two hundred figures to assist intuition Emphasis on semiclassical Green function and wave packet perspective, as well as tunneling and spectroscopy Chapters include quantum mechanics of classically chaotic systems, quantum scarring, and other modern dynamical topics

"Why You Hear What You Hear" is the first book on the physics of sound for the nonspecialist to empower readers with a hands-on, ears-open approach that includes production, analysis, and perception of sound. The book makes possible a deep intuitive understanding of many aspects of sound, as opposed to the usual approach of mere description. This goal is aided by hundreds of original illustrations and examples, many of which the reader can reproduce and adjust using the same tools used by the author (e.g., very accessible applets for PC and Mac, and interactive web-based examples, simulations, and analysis tools will be found on the book's website: whyyouhearwhatyouhear.com.) Readers are positioned to build intuition by participating in discovery.

This truly progressive introduction to sound engages and informs amateur and professional musicians, performers, teachers, sound engineers, students of many stripes, and indeed anyone interested in the auditory world. The book does not hesitate to follow entertaining and sometimes controversial side trips into the history and world of acoustics, reinforcing key concepts. You will discover how musical instruments really work, how pitch is perceived, and how sound can be amplified with no external power source.

Sound is key to our lives, and is the most accessible portal to the vibratory universe. This book takes you there. The first book on sound to offer interactive tools, building conceptual understanding via an experiential approach Supplementary website (http: //www.whyyouhearwhatyouhear.com) will provide Java, MAX, and other free, multiplatform, interactive graphical and sound applets Extensive selection of original exercises available on the web with solutions Nearly 400 full-color illustrations, many of simulations that students can do

Although introduced30 years ago, the J-matrix method has witnessed a resurgence of interest in the last few years. In fact, the interest never ceased, as some authors have found in this method an effective way of handling the continuous spectrum of scattering operators, in addition to other operators. The motivation behind the introduction of the J-matrix method will be presented in brief. The introduction of fast computing machines enabled theorists to perform cal- lations, although approximate, in a conveniently short period of time. This made it possible to study varied scenarios and models, and the effects that different possible parameters have on the ?nal results of such calculations. The ?rst area of research that bene?ted from this opportunity was the structural calculation of atomic and nuclear systems. The Hamiltonian element of the system was set up as a matrix in a convenient, ?nite, bound-state-like basis. A matrix of larger size resulted in a better con?guration interaction matrix that was subsequently diagonalized. The discrete energy eigenvalues thus obtained approximated the spectrum of the system, while the eigenfunctions approximated the wave function of the resulting discrete state. Structural theorists were delighted because they were able to obtain very accurate values for the lowest energy states of interest.