The Strange World of Quantum Mechanics

An exceptionally accessible, accurate and non-technical introduction to the core concepts of quantum mechanics.

Daniel F. Styer (Author)

9780521667807, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 24 February 2000

172 pages, 15 tables
25.3 x 17.8 x 1.4 cm, 0.507 kg

'The Strange World of Quantum Mechanics not only provides a lively written, accurate and non-technical introduction to these basic concepts of quantum mechanics but also manages to bridge the gap from these basic concepts to modern developments which are still of topical interest for current research … this book is an ideal source for any non-physicist with a strong interest in the central ideas of quantum mechanics … thus The Strange World of Quantum Mechanics is also highly recommendable to students and even to experts as a complementary textbook.' G. Alber, Contemporary Physics

This is an exceptionally accessible, accurate, and non-technical introduction to quantum mechanics. After briefly summarizing the differences between classical and quantum behaviour, this engaging account considers the Stern-Gerlach experiment and its implications, treats the concepts of probability, and then discusses the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox and Bell's theorem. Quantal interference and the concept of amplitudes are introduced and the link revealed between probabilities and the interference of amplitudes. Quantal amplitude is employed to describe interference effects. Final chapters explore exciting new developments in quantum computation and cryptography, discover the unexpected behaviour of a quantal bouncing-ball, and tackle the challenge of describing a particle with no position. Thought-provoking problems and suggestions for further reading are included. Suitable for use as a course text, The Strange World of Quantum Mechanics enables students to develop a genuine understanding of the domain of the very small. It will also appeal to general readers seeking intellectual adventure.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. Classical magnetic needles
3. The Stern–Gerlach experiment
4. The conundrum of projections: repeated measurements
5. Probability
6. The Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen paradox
7. Variations on a theme by Einstein
8. Optical interference
9. Quantal interference
10. Amplitudes
11. Working with amplitudes
12. Two slit inventions
13. Quantum cryptography
14. Quantum mechanics of a bouncing ball
15. The wavefunction
Appendix A: a brief history of quantum mechanics
Appendix B: putting weirdness to work
Appendix C: sources
Appendix D: general questions
Appendix E: bibliography
Appendix F: skeleton answers for selected problems
Index.

Subject Areas: Quantum physics [quantum mechanics & quantum field theory PHQ]