Synopses & Reviews
In this lively look at quantum science, a physicist takes you on an entertaining and enlightening journey through the basics of subatomic physics. Along the way, he examines the paradox of quantum mechanics--beautifully mathematical in theory but confoundingly unpredictable in the real world. Marvel at the Dual Slit experiment as a tiny atom passes through two separate openings at the same time. Ponder the peculiar communication of quantum particles, which can remain in touch no matter how far apart. Join the genius jewel thief as he carries out a quantum measurement on a diamond without ever touching the object in question. Baffle yourself with the bizzareness of quantum tunneling, the equivalent of traveling partway up a hill, only to disappear then reappear traveling down the opposite side. With its clean, colorful layout and conversational tone, this text will hook you into the conundrum that is quantum mechanics.
Synopsis
Quantum physics isn't simple, but it can be made understandable. Try this highly visual, clearly explained introduction featuring specially-commissioned illustrations of concepts and realities so small and so far away that you "see" them here for the first time. Quantum is the most fundamental of all scientific theories, which underpins both the most advanced research and the technology we use every day. It's broken down into special sections that cover the basic theory and its practical consequences. Fascinating biographical sketches present the pioneers and the breakthroughs they achieved. Track the Bohr-Einstein debate over relativity (and vote for your choice of the winner), then follow the unfinished problems, including probability and chance, gravity, decoherence, and the worlds of computing and nanotechnology.
Synopsis
and#8220;Takes readers on a fascinating journey...presenting a unique perspective on the understanding of how forces and particles interact. Al-Khalili...[uses] simple and clear language...and he provides excellent graphics, simple experiments, and explanations of everyday applications. This is mandatory reading for undergraduates.and#8221;and#8212;
Library Journal and#8220;Al-Khalili...attacks the subject straight on. Richly illustrated.and#8221;and#8212;
Popular Science Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references (p. 270-272) and index.
Table of Contents
Nature's conjuring trick. Buckyballs and the dual-slit experiment / Markus Arndt & Anton Zeilinger -- Origins -- Probability and chance. Radioactive decay / Ron Johnson -- Spooky connections. Quantum chaology / Michael Berry -- The watchers and the watched -- The great debate. Quantum reality, according to de Broglie and Bohm / Chris Dewdney -- The subatomic world. Elementary constituents / Frank Close -- The search for the ultimate theory. Accentuating the negative / Paul Davies -- Putting the quantum to work. Bose-Einstein condensates / Ed Hines -- Quantum mechanics and biology / Johnjoe McFadden -- Into the new millennium. Quantum computing / Andrew Steane.