The Quantum Theory of Motion
An Account of the de Broglie-Bohm Causal Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics

An explanation of how quantum processes may be visualised without ambiguity, in terms of a simple physical model.

Peter R. Holland (Author)

9780521485432, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 26 January 1995

620 pages, 90 b/w illus.
25.1 x 17.6 x 3.4 cm, 1.09 kg

'The wealth of details and literature citations make this a valuable reference work.' Science

This book presents the first, comprehensive exposition of the interpretation of quantum mechanics pioneered by Louis de Broglie and David Bohm. The purpose is to explain how quantum processes may be visualized without ambiguity or confusion, in terms of a simple physical model. Developing the theme that a material system, such as an electron, is a particle guided by a surrounding quantum wave, an examination of the classic phenomena of quantum theory is presented to show how the spacetime orbits of an ensemble of particles can reproduce the statistical quantum predictions. The mathematical and conceptual aspects of this theory are developed carefully from first principles. The book thus provides a comprehensive overview of an approach which brings clarity to a subject notorious for its conceptual difficulties. It will, therefore, appeal to all physicists with an interest in the foundations of their subject.

1. Quantum mechanics and its interpretation
2. Hamilton–Jacobi theory
3. Elements of the quantum theory of motion
4. Simple applications
5. Interference and tunnelling
6. The classical limit
7. Many-body systems
8. Theory of experiments
9. Spin 1/2: The Pauli theory
10. Spin 1/2: The rigid rotator
11. The Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen experiment and nonlocality
12. Relativistic quantum theory
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Physics [PH]