Time's Arrows and Quantum Measurement

An introduction to the arrow of time and a new, related, theory of quantum measurement.

Lawrence S. Schulman (Author)

9780521567756, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 31 July 1997

368 pages, 55 b/w illus. 45 exercises
24.7 x 17.4 x 2.3 cm, 0.785 kg

'To summarize, this very readable book, written in a witty and accessible style, provides fresh insights on statistical mechanics and quantum theory.' Christian Bracher, Department of Physics

This book is an introduction to the arrow of time in thermodynamics and cosmology, and develops a new quantum measurement theory in which the foregoing concepts play an essential role. The first chapter is an overview and 'route map' and is followed by an exposition of irreversibility, the expansion of the Universe and other arrows of time. The author examines the thesis that the thermodynamic arrow follows the cosmological one, and in doing so extends traditional statistical mechanics. The second part of the book presents a new theory of quantum measurement and possible experimental tests. This theory incorporates the extended statistical mechanics in an essential way. The last chapter discusses open experimental and theoretical issues. Written in a lively and accessible style, the text is liberally sprinkled with exercises. Each chapter ends with a resources section that includes notes, further reading, and technical appendices.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. Irreversibility
3. Arrows of time
4. Correlating arrows of time
5. Two-time boundary conditions
6. Quantum measurements: cats, clouds and everything else
7. Existence of special states
8. Selection of special states
9. Abundance of special states
10. Experimental tests
11. Conclusions and outlook.

Subject Areas: Physics [PH]