Compendium of Quantum Physics

Since its inception in the early part of the twentieth century, quantum physics has fascinated the academic world, its students, and even the general public. In fact, it is or has become a highly interdisciplinary eld. On a topic such as the physicsof the atom the disciplines of physics, philosophy,and history of science interconnect in a remarkable way, and to an extent that is revealed in this volume for the rst time. This compendium brings together some 90 researchers, who have authored approximately 185 articles on all aspects of quantum theory. The project is truly international and interdisciplinary because it is a compilation of contributions by historiansofscience,philosophers,andphysicists,all interestedinparticularaspects of quantum physics. A glance at the biographies at the end of the volume reveals author af liations in no fewer than twenty countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,Greece, Italy, Israel, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. Indeed, the authors are not only international, they are also internationally renowned with three Physics Nobel Prize laureates among them. The basic idea and motivationbehind the compendiumis indicatedin its subtitle, namely,to describe in concise and accessible form the essential conceptsand exp- iments as well as the history and philosophy of quantum physics. The length of the contributions variesaccording to the topic, and all texts are written by recognized experts in the respective elds.

The definitive modern reference in the field Written by leading quantum physicists, including three Nobel laureates Comprehensive and yet concise Ideal quick reference for students of physics and history/philosophy of science Covers both technical and interpretational aspects of quantum theory Gives carefully selected references to pertinent original literature Includes English-German-French glossary of important terms Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

Autorentext

Daniel Greenberger, Professor of Physics at the City College of New York, CUNY, USA

Klaus Hentschel, Professor of History of Science and Technology at Stuttgart University, Germany

Friedel Weinert, Professor of Philosophy at the University of Bradford, UK

Klappentext

With contributions by many of today's leading quantum physicists, philosophers and historians, including three Nobel laureates, this comprehensive A to Z of quantum physics provides a lucid understanding of the key concepts of quantum theory and experiment. It covers technical and interpretational aspects alike, and includes both traditional topics and newer areas such as quantum information and its relatives. The central concepts that have shaped contemporary understanding of the quantum world are clearly defined, with illustrations where helpful, and discussed at a level suitable for undergraduate and graduate students of physics, history of science, and philosophy of physics. All articles share three main aims: (1) to provide a clear definition and understanding of the term concerned; (2) where possible, to trace the historical origins of the concept; and (3) to provide a small but optimal selection of references to the most relevant literature, including pertinent historical studies. Also discussed are the often contentious philosophical implications derived from quantum theory and its associated experimental findings.

This compendium will be an indispensable resource for all those seeking concise up-to-date information about the many facets of quantum physics.

Inhalt
Contents: Preface.- Alphabetical Compendium of Terms.- English-German-French Lexicon of Terms.- Author Biographies.