The plain-English guide to understanding quantum physics
Mastering quantum physics is no easy feat, but with the help of Quantum Physics For Dummies you can work at your own pace to unlock key concepts and fascinating facts. Packed with invaluable explanations, equations, and step-by-step instructions, this book makes a challenging subject much more accessible. Great for college students taking a quantum physics course, Quantum Physics For Dummies offers complete coverage of the subject, along with numerous examples to help you tackle the tough stuff. The Schrodinger Equation, the foundations of quantum physics, vector notation, scattering theory, angular momentum—it’s all in here. This handy guide helps you prepare for exams and succeed at learning quantum physics.
- Get clear explanations of the core concepts in quantum physics
- Review the math principles needed for quantum physics equations
- Learn the latest breakthroughs and research in the field
- Clarify difficult subjects and equations from your college course
Quantum Physics For Dummies is great a resource for students who need a supplement to the textbook to help them tackle this challenging subject.
Table of Content
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting Started with Quantum Physics 5
Chapter 1: What Is Quantum Physics, Anyway? 7
Chapter 2: Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Classical Physics 13
Chapter 3: The Quantum Revolution 41
Part 2: The Fundamentals: Quantum Physics Principles and Theories 69
Chapter 4: Quantum Mechanics: Particle States and Dualities 71
Chapter 5: Quantum Electrodynamics and Beyond 77
Chapter 6: Quantum Cats and Spooky Action: Interpretations of Quantum Physics 87
Part 3: By the Numbers: Basic Quantum Physics Math 101
Chapter 7: Entering the Matrix: Welcome to State Vectors 103
Chapter 8: Getting Stuck in Energy Wells 131
Chapter 9: Back and Forth with Harmonic Oscillators 163
Chapter 10: Working with Angular Momentum on the Quantum Level 181
Chapter 11: Getting Dizzy with Spin 205
Part 4: Going 3D with Quantum Physics Calculations 217
Chapter 12: Rectangular Coordinates: Solving Problems in 3D 219
Chapter 13: Solving Spherical Coordinate Problems 237
Chapter 14: The Simplest Atom: Understanding Hydrogen 253
Chapter 15: Handling Many Particles and Group Dynamics 275
Part 5: The Part of Tens 303
Chapter 16: Ten Important Quantum Physics Pioneers 305
Chapter 17: Ten Quantum Physics Triumphs 311
Index 317
About the author
Andrew Zimmerman Jones is a researcher, educator, and science writer. He is the former physics guide at About.com, where he wrote lessons and explanations for physics questions. Andrew earned his degree in physics from Wabash College and his master’s degree in mathematics education from Purdue University. He is the author of String Theory For Dummies.
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