Quantum Physics: A First Encounter: Interference, Entanglement, and Reality

by Valerio Scarani

Quantum physics is often perceived as a weird and abstract theory, which physicists must use in order to make correct predictions. But many recent experiments have shown that the weirdness of the theory simply mirrors the weirdness of it is Nature itself, and not only our description of it, that behaves in an astonishing way. This book selects those, among these typical quantum phenomena, whose rigorous description requires neither the formalism, nor an important background in physics.

The first part of the book deals with the phenomenon of single-particle interference, covering the historical questions of wave-particle duality, objective randomness and the boundary between the quantum and the classical world, but also the recent idea of quantum cryptography. The second part introduces the modern theme of entanglement, by presenting two-particle interference phenomena and discussing Bell's inequalities. A concise review of the main interpretations of quantum physics is provided.

Genres: Physics, Science

144 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Randy Layheed · Rating 4 out of 5]

I put my brain to use on this one

[Jared Gulian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good intro to quantum physics. I love reading about this topic because it blows my mind and challenges my basic perceptions of reality.

In the spectrum of 'academic' to 'layperson' analysis of quantum physics, this is slightly on the academic side for me, which is a strength in many ways--but it makes for dense reading at times. Still, worth it.

[Anthony O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb

A superb introduction to interference and entanglement as the key feature in quantum physics. Especially entanglement. And also a look at the quantum classical boundary if there is one - which includes a discussion of ‘measurement’ and of Everett’s astonishing hypothesis of macro superpositions. The author clearly has deep expertise and experience along with a superb ability to explain things as simply as possible. No math! An unfortunate publishing rule it would seem. Just a little would have improved the exposition even more. Or maybe not. Lots of historical contexts and insight. A few personal ideas. Just excellent.

[Dzmitry Horbach · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is trying to explain some quantum phenomena (interference and entanglement) to general audience but I'd say on different level comparing to regular pop-science books. Good when you already have general picture and want to dig into particular area.
Very short (100 pages) but I was able to get some new interesting facts and insights.

[Peter · Rating 1 out of 5]

It is a difficult topic in the first place. I do not know if it was just my lack of comprehension or there is something amiss in the translation. I found myself flicking back and forth between pages trying to make sense of the narrative and not only the physics.

[Ralf · Rating 5 out of 5]

How this book is written is less relevant, and I am not qualified to rate that, but what it tells us about reality, in non-technical terms, is absolutely beautiful and fascinating. You should read this.

[Rocco · Rating 4 out of 5]

“It is extremely difficult for a physicist to say what things are, but on the other hand I can at least explain how things work.”

“There will always be pessimists, but it is the enthusiasts who (sometimes) change the way things are.”

[Guthrie C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, concise book filled with plain language and mind-blowing results. Incredible primer for the wild world of quantum physics.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I chose to read this as part of my ongoing quest to understand the actual science behind teleportation and time travel (or the theories behind them, anyway). I must say that Scarani must be very intelligent indeed not only to work in such a field but also to make quantum physics so accessible that even someone with such a non-scientific mind such as I can generally grasp the concepts. Focusing mostly on applications in the areas of mechanics (quantum interference) and communication (quantum cryptology), he does eventually skim over teleportation right at the end of his last chapter, although of course it's teleportation of properties of a particle rather than matter itself.

But a girl can still dream...

Although I expected either obtuse scientific jargon or simplistic pop-science reduction, I discovered instead a clear, direct prose with no fluff. Highly recommended for those interested in the science of physics (which, in my mind, is the only science that makes real sense) or to those who just want their brains stretched. :)

[Natan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall, a very good introduction to the strangeness of quantum physics. It is suitable for beginners but not so elementary that someone with background is bored. I also liked the author's kind of old-school style.

There is one question I always had about books like this, that try to explain physics to beginners, and I would be happy to get responses. Can someone with NO mathematical or scientific background get anything out of them?

[Andrey Pavlov · Rating 3 out of 5]

I recommend you to watch some popular Discovery Channel Tv show about quantum world rather than read this book both are equally informative