Around 1900, physicists started to discover particles like electrons,
protons, and neutrons, and with these discoveries believed they could
predict the internal behavior of the atom. However, once their
predictions were compared to the results of experiments in the real
world, it became clear that the principles of classical physics and
mechanics were far from capable of explaining phenomena on the atomic
scale. With this realization came the advent of quantum physics, one of
the most important intellectual movements in human history. Today,
quantum physics is everywhere: it explains how our computers work, how
lasers transmit information across the Internet, and allows scientists
to predict accurately the behavior of nearly every particle in nature.
Its application continues to be fundamental in the investigation of the
most expansive questions related to our world and the universe.
However, while the field and principles of quantum physics are known to
have nearly limitless applications, the fundamental reasons why this is
the case are far less understood. In Quantum Physics: What Everyone
Needs to Know, quantum physicist Michael G. Raymer distills the basic
principles of such an abstract field, and addresses the many ways
quantum physics is a key factor in today's science and beyond. The book
tackles questions as broad as the meaning of quantum entanglement and as
specific and timely as why governments worldwide are spending billions
of dollars developing quantum technology research. Raymer's list of
topics is diverse, and showcases the sheer range of questions and ideas
in which quantum physics is involved. From applications like data
encryption and quantum computing to principles and concepts like
"quantum nonlocality" and Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, Quantum
Physics: What Everyone Needs to Know is a wide-reaching introduction to
a nearly ubiquitous
scientific topic.
