Quantum Legacy: The Discovery That Changed the Universe

by Barry Parker

Today we all take for granted the many technological marvels that have sprung from quantum physics without ever appreciating the radical paradigm shift that led to these discoveries. The story of the physicists who made the quantum leaps that have so altered our world is a provocative and intriguing one. And there is no better person to describe the history of this quantum revolution in terms that everyone can understand than award-winning physicist and science writer Barry Parker.Parker introduces us to all the major players in this history, offering interesting biographical details that shed light on their important Max Planck, Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, Werner Heisenberg, Erwin Schroedinger, Paul Dirac, Richard Feynman, and Julian Schwinger. Parker also discusses Einstein's objections to quantum theory ("God does not play dice with the universe."), philosophical implications and "quantum weirdness," as well as the seemingly miraculous practical applications of quantum theory - in lasers, transistors, integrated circuits, computer technology, nuclear energy, and genetics.Parker's gift for turning the subtle complexities of subatomic physics into clearly understandable terms while conveying the excitement and wide-ranging importance of quantum exploration make him the ideal guide to a field that continues to transform our world and ultimately our universe.

400 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2002

Reviews

[Inci Com · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy intro to very complicated subject.

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy-to-understand introduction to quantum mechanics. (Admittedly, Einstein was the only name I recognized when I started the book.) The language wasn't too academic-y, and I really enjoyed the structure Parker used: one physicist at a time, sharing the history / evolution of the theory through that particular physicist's ideas and experiments. There were several times I paused with the realization of just how much our lives were / are affected by quantum physics. I'll definitely buy a copy in the near future because there were many parts I would've have loved to highlight for quick reference in the future.

Side note: My biggest goals in reading Quantum Legacy were a greater understanding of the theory AND inspiration for my fiction; both goals were achieved.

[Taner ardali · Rating 3 out of 5]

i like it