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The Strange World of Quantum Mechanics
by Daniel F. Styer
Cambridge University Press | February 2000 | ISBN-10: 0521667801 | 172 pages | PDF | 39.8 mb
https://www.amazon.com/Strange-World-Quantum-Mechanics/dp/0521667801
This is an exceptionally accessible, accurate, and nontechnical introduction to quantum mechanics. After briefly summarizing the differences between classical and quantum behavior, 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. Coverage introduces the quantal interference and the concept of amplitudes, and also reveals the link between probabilities and the interference of amplitudes. Final chapters explore exciting new developments in quantum computation and cryptography, discover the unexpected behavior 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.
CONTENTS
Preface XI
1 Introduction 1
Classical mechanics describes how ordinary-sized things behave. Quantum mechanics describes how atomic-sized things behave.
2 Classical Magnetic Needles 5
In classical mechanics, a compass needle behaves like a "magnetic arrow" that obeys certain rules.
3 The Stern-Cerlaeh Experiment 13
Experiments show that atomic-sized magnetic needles do not behave exactly like arrows.
4 The Conundrum of Projections; Repeated Measurements 21
In fact, atomic-sized magnetic needles can't behave like arrows at all! Repeated measurement experiments suggest that only probabilities, not certainties, can be predicted in quantum mechanics.
5 Probability 31
An understanding of probability is necessary lor quantum mechanics and important for day-lo-dav life,
6 The Einstein-Podolskv-Rosen Paradox 38
The probabilistic character of quantum mechanics, .suggested previously, is here proved.
7 Variations on a Theme bv Einstein 49
Two more proofs, intellectual descendants of the Einstein-Podolsky Rosen argument. (This chapter is optional.)
8 Optical Interference 57
Alomic-sizcd things don't behave in the familiar classical way. But how do they behave? Light, provides a clue, in that light from two sources can add up to produce not more light bul darkness.
9 Quantal Interference 64
We design an apparatus with two routes through which an atom may pass from the input to the output. If the atom must pass through one route, then the probability of passage is If it must pass through the other route, then the probability of passage is i. Rut if it may pass through either route, then the probability of passage is ... zero!
10 Amplitudes 76
Quantal interference is described using an abstract entity called "amplitude".
11 Working with Amplitudes 86
Amplitude is represented mathematically by an arrow in a plane. Amplitude is associated with a process, not with a particle.
12 Two-Slit Inventions 94
Variations on the quantal interference experiment drive home the point that "the atom takes both routes".
13 Quantum Cryptography 98
Quantum mechanics invites deep thought about the nature of reality and the character of science. But on the practical level, it also allows the construction of an unbreakable code. (This chapter is optional.)
14 Quantum Mechanics of a liouncing Ball 103
The quantal rules for amplitudes, when applied to an ordinary-sized ball moving through space, give the same common-scnse result as classical mechanics — unless we trick the ball!
15 The Wavefunction 113
How does an atom behave when it has no position? How can humans visualize this behavior?
Appendix A: A Brief History of Quantum Mechanics 119
Appendix B: Putting Weirdness to Work 133
Appendix C: Sources 138
Appendix D: General Questions 141
Appendix E: Bibliography 145
Appendix V: Skeleton Answers for Selected Problems 149
Index 151
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