Particle and high-energy physics Books
Oxford University Press Atomic Physics
Book SynopsisThis text is primarily intended to accompany an advanced undergraduate course in atomic physics. However, the elementary atomic physics of the early chapters should be accessible to undergraduates first being introduced to the subject. Its experimental basis is strongly emphasized.Trade ReviewAbsolutely brillant textbook ... Strongly recommended and A textbook that must be definitively be acquired in the Libraries of Universities! * Dr. Thierry-Philippe Picornell, GSz *Table of Contents1. Early Atomic Physics ; 2. The Hydrogen Atom ; 3. Helium ; 4. The Alkalis ; 5. The LS-coupling scheme ; 6. Hyperfine Structure and Isotope Shift ; 7. The Interaction of Atoms with Radiation ; 8. Doppler-free Laser Spectroscopy ; 9. Laser cooling and trapping ; 10. Magnetic trapping, Evaporative cooling and BEC ; 11. Atom Interferometry ; 12. Ion Traps ; 13. Quantum Computing
£40.84
Cambridge University Press Quantum Field Theory
Book SynopsisThis modern text combines fundamental principles with advanced topics and recent techniques in a rigorous and self-contained treatment of quantum field theory.Beginning with a review of basic principles, starting with quantum mechanics and special relativity, students can refresh their knowledge of elementary aspects of quantum field theory and perturbative calculations in the Standard Model. Results and tools relevant to many applications are covered, including canonical quantization, path integrals, non-Abelian gauge theories, and the renormalization group. Advanced topics are explored, with detail given on effective field theories, quantum anomalies, stable extended field configurations, lattice field theory, and field theory at a finite temperature or in the strong field regime. Two chapters are dedicated to new methods for calculating scattering amplitudes (spinor-helicity, on-shell recursion, and generalized unitarity), equipping students with practical skills for research. AccesTrade Review'Quantum Field Theory: From Basics to Modern Topics, by François Gelis, is a very welcome addition to the canon of literature on quantum field theory, impressive both in its breadth and depth. It covers, in a succinct fashion, foundational material in the subject and then treats many more modern developments: effective field theories, anomaly matching, recursion relations for gauge and gravitational amplitudes, strong fields, and more.' Laurence Yaffe, University of Washington'Though there are many books on quantum field theory, I have found this book valuable for its readable treatment of a diverse selection of modern topics from a uniform viewpoint. Subjects introduced well in this book that are hard to find elsewhere include Schwinger-Keldysh and finite-temperature field theory, modern tools for scattering amplitudes, worldline methods, as well as effective field theory. The discussion is illustrated with a rich set of examples, mainly from high energy physics.' John McGreevy, University of California, San DiegoTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Basics of quantum field theory; 2. Peturbation theory; 3. Quantum electrodynamics; 4. Spontaneous symmetry breaking; 5. Functional quantization; 6. Path integrals for fermions and photons; 7. Non-Abelian gauge symmetry; 8. Quantization of Yang–Mills theory; 9. Renormalization of gauge theories; 10. Renormalization group; 11. Effective field theories; 12. Quantum anomalies; 13. Localized field configurations; 14. Modern tools for tree amplitudes; 15. Wordline formalism; 16. Lattice field theory; 17. Quantum field theory at finite temperature; 18. Strong fields and semi-classical methods; 19. From trees to loops; Further reading; Index.
£49.99
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Superheavy
Book SynopsisShortlisted for the 2020 AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science BooksCreating an element is no easy feat. It''s the equivalent of firing six trillion bullets a second at a needle in a haystack, hoping the bullet and needle somehow fuse together, then catching it in less than a thousandth of a second after which it''s gone forever. Welcome to the world of the superheavy elements: a realm where scientists use giant machines and spend years trying to make a single atom of mysterious artefacts that have never existed on Earth.From the first elements past uranium and their role in the atomic bomb to the latest discoveries stretching our chemical world, Superheavy will reveal the hidden stories lurking at the edges of the periodic table. Why did the US Air Force fly planes into mushroom clouds? Who won the transfermium wars? How did an earthquake help give Japan its first element? And what happened when Superman almost spilled nuclear secrets?<Trade ReviewWithout any compromise in accuracy, the book is compelling, conversational and entertaining, full of great stories and insights into the characters behind the quest. * Chemistry World *Making elements that don’t exist in nature is one of the craziest, most painstaking and bold pursuits in all of science, and Superheavy tells that story for the first time, with wit and verve. This deeply researched and engaging tour of the nether reaches of the periodic table will delight and inform everyone from the expert to the reader with only the dimmest memory of the iconic chart of chemical elements on the school lab wall. -- Phillip Ball, author of Beyond WeirdWith meticulous attention to detail and careful research, Chapman masterfully captures the excitement, politics and competition of the transuranic elements. Chapman's energy and enthusiasm is evident in every interaction, whether he is uncovering elaborate experimental details or unearthing scientific rivalries. -- Jess Wade, Physics Research Associate, Imperial College LondonTo anyone who imagines that the romantic age of elemental discovery ended in the 19th century, Kit Chapman’s hugely entertaining account of the discovery of the elements past uranium will be a real eye-opener. Larger than life characters, strange stories of errors, improvisation, and luck (good and bad) abound here. With a solid introduction to the science underpinning the stability and separation of these mysterious and mostly ephemeral species, there is much for everyone to learn and connect with here. -- Andrea Sella, Professor of Inorganic Chemistry, UCL, and winner of the Royal Society's Michael Faraday Prize 2014Table of ContentsPrologue Introduction PART I: CHILDREN OF THE ATOM Chapter 1: Modern Alchemy Chapter 2: The Secret of Gilman Hall Chapter 3: How to Build a Nuclear Weapon Chapter 4: Superman vs the FBI Chapter 5: Universitium ofium Californium Berkelium Chapter 6: The Death of Jimmy Robinson Chapter 7: Presidents and Beetles PART II: TRANSFERMIUM WARS Chapter 8: Nobelievium Chapter 9: From Russia with Flerov Chapter 10: The East and the West Chapter 11: Xanthasia and the Magic Numbers Chapter 12: Life at the Edge of Science Chapter 13: The Atoms that Came in from the Cold Chapter 14: Changing the Rules Chapter 15: How to Name your Element PART III: THE END OF CHEMISTRY Chapter 16: After the Wall Came Down Chapter 17: The Ninov Fraud Chapter 18: A New Hope Chapter 19: Beams of the Rising Sun Chapter 20: The Edge of the Unknown Chapter 21: Beyond Superheavy Epilogue References Acknowledgements Index
£10.44
Oxford University Press Phase Transitions and Renormalization Group
Book SynopsisThis work tries to provide an elementary introduction to the notions of continuum limit and universality in statistical systems with a large number of degrees of freedom. The existence of a continuum limit requires the appearance of correlations at large distance, a situation that is encountered in second order phase transitions, near the critical temperature. In this context, we will emphasize the role of gaussian distributions and their relations with the mean field approximation and Landau''s theory of critical phenomena. We will show that quasi-gaussian or mean-field approximations cannot describe correctly phase transitions in three space dimensions. We will assign this difficulty to the coupling of very different physical length scales, even though the systems we will consider have only local, that is, short range interactions. To analyze the unusual situation, a new concept is required: the renormalization group, whose fixed points allow understanding the universality of physicaTrade ReviewA subject of lasting importance, presented by one of the best qualified authors internationally. * John Chalker, University of Oxford *The topic is good, with renewed interest in the renormalization group by the new generation of string theorists and particle theorists. * Randall Kamien, University of Pennsylvania *The clear exposition of the main ideas and the simple and agile notation the author uses help facilitate the comprehension of the different concepts presented. Researchers familiar with statistical physics methods will find a self-contained framework to grasp the essence of quantum field theory and the renormalization group and to elucidate the prominent role they play at present in physics. For this reason, this book is highly recommendable due to the insight it gives into quantum field theories, providing sound basis for further research. * Journal of Statistical Physics *Table of Contents1. Quantum Field Theory and Renormalization Group ; 2. Gaussian Expectation Values. Steepest Descent Method . ; 3. Universality and Continuum Limit ; 4. Classical Statistical Physics: One Dimension ; 5. Continuum Limit and Path Integral ; 6. Ferromagnetic Systems. Correlations ; 7. Phase transitions: Generalities and Examples ; 8. Quasi-Gaussian Approximation: Universality, Critical Dimension ; 9. Renormalization Group: General Formulation ; 10. Perturbative Renormalization Group: Explicit Calculations ; 11. Renormalization group: N-component fields ; 12. Statistical Field Theory: Perturbative Expansion ; 13. The sigma4 Field Theory near Dimension 4 ; 14. The O(N) Symmetric (phi2)2 Field Theory: Large N Limit ; 15. The Non-Linear sigma-Model ; 16. Functional Renormalization Group ; Appendix ; 1. Quantum Field Theory and Renormalization Group ; 2. Gaussian Expectation Values. Steepest Descent Method . ; 3. Universality and Continuum Limit ; 4. Classical Statistical Physics: One Dimension ; 5. Continuum Limit and Path Integral ; 6. Ferromagnetic Systems. Correlations ; 7. Phase transitions: Generalities and Examples ; 8. Quasi-Gaussian Approximation: Universality, Critical Dimension ; 9. Renormalization Group: General Formulation ; 10. Perturbative Renormalization Group: Explicit Calculations ; 11. Renormalization group: N-component fields ; 12. Statistical Field Theory: Perturbative Expansion ; 13. The sigma4 Field Theory near Dimension 4 ; 14. The O(N) Symmetric (phi2)2 Field Theory: Large N Limit ; 15. The Non-Linear sigma-Model ; 16. Functional Renormalization Group ; Appendix
£46.54
Oneworld Publications The Neutrino Hunters: The Chase for the Ghost
Book SynopsisBefore the Higgs boson, there was a maddening search for another particle that holds the secrets of the universe – the neutrino. First detected in 1956, it teased the answers to science’s greatest mysteries. How did the Big Bang happen? What might ‘dark matter’ be made of? And could faster-than light travel be possible, overturning Einstein’s theory of special relativity? But the hunt for the neutrino and its meaning has also involved adventures, from Cold War defections and extra dimensions to mile-deep holes in the Antarctic ice and a troubled genius who disappeared without a trace. Renowned astrophysicist and award-winning science writer Ray Jayawardhana delivers a thrilling detective story of revolutionary science from the dawn of the quantum age to today’s most inventive labs.Trade Review'The book has received much praise, with its entertaining storytelling by Jayawardhana - an award-winning science writer and celebrated researcher - applauded widely.' * New Statesman *‘A great ghost story and a thumping good piece of science writing rolled into one.’ * Observer *‘Jayawardhana goes a step further than just tracking the scientific progress made in the neutrino search: he tells a story… paced perfectly, with some very in-depth topics covered in a compelling and easily understandable way… a well-written and gripping history.’ * BBC Sky at Night *‘Strong on the history… comprehensive.’ * The Economist *'The Neutrino Hunters is a fascinating, comprehensive look at the monumental efforts to detect the least understood particle known to physics. While the Higgs boson might be more famous, Ray Jayawardhana reveals that neutrinos are far more mysterious, and may hold the key to the next breakthroughs in the field.' -- Chad Orzel, author of How to Teach Quantum Physics to Your Dog'Vividly, colourfully, and humorously captures the often offbeat characters who, over the past century, have pursued one of the most elusive – and significant – mysteries in the history of physics.' -- Richard Panek, author of The 4% Universe'Absorbing and accessibly told.' * The Bookseller *'Everything about neutrinos is fascinating. The various dramas associated with their discovery, our efforts to understand their very weird properties, and finally, what they have taught us about fundamental physics are remarkable. Ray Jayawardhana is the perfect person to convey these exciting stories.' -- Lawrence Krauss, author of The Physics of Star Trek and A Universe from Nothing'Move over Neil deGrasse Tyson and Brian Greene! Ray Jayawardhana is the new dean of popular science – a working scientist who can explain even the most complex matters in a clear and entertaining way. In Neutrino Hunters, he spins a thrilling tale that takes us from the deepest depths of the Earth to the farthest reaches of the universe. A wonderful read from start to finish.' -- Robert J. Sawyer, Hugo Award-winning author of Red Planet Blues and Fast Forward'Ray Jayawardhana’s thorough and lucid discussion of ghostly neutrinos whisks readers from subterranean labs and the thermonuclear hearts of stars into profound questions of the universe’s evolution, and why there is something rather than nothing. The Neutrino Hunters is an excellent overview of a vibrant and vital area of research.' -- Lee Billings, author of Five Billion Years of Solitude'We are lucky to have Dr Jayawardhana – a first-rate storyteller who also knows the physics inside and out – to guide us through the science and the personalities behind this remarkable story.' -- Dan Falk, author of In Search of Time'In this richly detailed and nuanced book, scientist and author Ray Jayawardhana captures the incredible story of one of nature’s most ghostly, yet vital ingredients. From the Earth’s core to exploding stars, vanishing scientists, and the very essence of matter in the universe, it’s a wild and immensely satisfying ride.' -- Caleb Scharf, author of Gravity’s Engines'Ray Jayawardhana tells a whopping good ghost story. Beautifully written, Neutrino Hunters paints a vivid portrait of this new astronomy for the 21st century and the fascinating scientists who put it into place.' -- Marcia Bartusiak, author of The Day We Found the Universe'The Neutrino Hunters is a riveting mix of science and biography, providing both entertainment and painlessly assimilated information. Ray Jayawardhana makes clear that the story is just beginning, as neutrino astronomy is starting to provide new insights into the nature of the Universe.' -- John Gribbin, author of In Search of Schrodinger's Cat
£10.79
Icon Books CERN and the Higgs Boson: The Global Quest for
Book SynopsisThe Higgs boson is the rock star of fundamental particles, catapulting CERN, the laboratory where it was found, into the global spotlight. But what is it, why does it matter, and what exactly is CERN? In the late 1940s, a handful of visionaries were working to steer Europe towards a more peaceful future through science, and CERN, the European particle physics laboratory, was duly born. James Gillies tells the gripping story of particle physics, from the original atomists of ancient Greece, through the people who made the crucial breakthroughs, to CERN itself, one of the most ambitious scientific undertakings of our time, and its eventual confirmation of the Higgs boson. Weaving together the scientific and political stories of CERN's development, the book reveals how particle physics has evolved from being the realm of solitary genius to a global field of human endeavour, with CERN's Large Hadron Collider as its frontier research tool.
£10.44
Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG Special Relativity in General Frames: From Particles to Astrophysics
Book SynopsisSpecial relativity is the basis of many fields in modern physics: particle physics, quantum field theory, high-energy astrophysics, etc. This theory is presented here by adopting a four-dimensional point of view from the start. An outstanding feature of the book is that it doesn’t restrict itself to inertial frames but considers accelerated and rotating observers. It is thus possible to treat physical effects such as the Thomas precession or the Sagnac effect in a simple yet precise manner. In the final chapters, more advanced topics like tensorial fields in spacetime, exterior calculus and relativistic hydrodynamics are addressed. In the last, brief chapter the author gives a preview of gravity and shows where it becomes incompatible with Minkowsky spacetime. Well illustrated and enriched by many historical notes, this book also presents many applications of special relativity, ranging from particle physics (accelerators, particle collisions, quark-gluon plasma) to astrophysics (relativistic jets, active galactic nuclei), and including practical applications (Sagnac gyrometers, synchrotron radiation, GPS). In addition, the book provides some mathematical developments, such as the detailed analysis of the Lorentz group and its Lie algebra. The book is suitable for students in the third year of a physics degree or on a masters course, as well as researchers and any reader interested in relativity. Thanks to the geometric approach adopted, this book should also be beneficial for the study of general relativity. “A modern presentation of special relativity must put forward its essential structures, before illustrating them using concrete applications to specific dynamical problems. Such is the challenge (so successfully met!) of the beautiful book by Éric Gourgoulhon.” (excerpt from the Foreword by Thibault Damour)Table of ContentsMinkowski Spacetime.- Worldlines and Proper Time.- Observers.- Kinematics 1: Motion with Respect to an Observer.- Kinematics 2: Change of Observer.- Lorentz Group.- Lorentz Group as a Lie Group.- Inertial Observers and Poincaré Group.- Energy and Momentum.- Angular Momentum.- Principle of Least Action.- Accelerated Observers.- Rotating Observers.- Tensors and Alternate Forms.- Fields on Spacetime.- Integration in Spacetime.- Electromagnetic Field.- Maxwell Equations.- Energy-Momentum Tensor.- Energy-Momentum of the Electromagnetic Field.- Relativistic Hydrodynamics.- What about Relativistic Gravitation?.- A Basic Algebra.- B Web Pages.- C Special Relativity Books.
£39.99
Cambridge University Press Introduction to Quantum Field Theory
Book SynopsisThis textbook offers a detailed and self-contained presentation of quantum field theory, suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate level courses. The author provides full derivations wherever possible and adopts a pedagogical tone without sacrificing rigour. A fully worked solutions manual is available online for instructors.Trade Review'This new and very welcome introduction to quantum field theory takes the reader from the basics of classical physics and the beauty of group theory to the intricacies and elegance of gauge field theories. Students and researchers alike will treasure this fresh approach to one of the foundation stones of modern physics.' Thomas Appelquist, Yale University'I wish this text had been available the last time I taught quantum field theory. The author provides clear, detailed expositions, which serve students with diverse backgrounds for multiple course syllabi.' Steve Gottlieb, Indiana University'The rigorous and logical approach makes this text certainly one to be seriously considered for use in a quantum field theory course. In any case, it is one which practitioners will definitely want to have within easy reach on their bookshelf.' Barry Holstein, University of Massachusetts Amherst'Both as an introductory text and as an excellent single-volume compendium on quantum field theory, this book is highly recommended for students as well as practitioners at all levels.' Wolfram Weise, Technical University of MunichTable of Contents1. Lorentz and Poincare Invariance; 2. Classical Mechanics; 3. Relativistic Classical Fields; 4. Relativistic Quantum Mechanics; 5. Introduction to Particle Physics; 6. Formulation of Quantum Field Theory; 7. Interacting Quantum Field Theories; 8. Symmetries and Renormalization; 9. Nonabelian Gauge Theories.
£66.49
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC The Matter of Everything: A History of Discovery
Book SynopsisBLACKWELLS' BOTM A 2022 BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR: NEW SCIENTIST * WATERSTONES * SUNDAY TIMES 'A splendid idea, vividly carried out: I enjoyed this book enormously’ PHILIP PULLMAN 'A rich history of beautiful discoveries' ROBIN INCE 'An all-action thriller, laced with some of the most profound ideas humans have ever had’ BRIAN ENO How did a piece of gold foil completely change our understanding of atoms? What part did a hot air balloon play in the discovery of cosmic rays? How do we know all that we know about the world today? It’s not simply because we have the maths – it’s because we have done the experiments. Accelerator physicist Suzie Sheehy introduces us to the creative and curious people who, through a combination of genius, tenacity and luck, staged the groundbreaking experiments of the twentieth century. From the serendipitous discovery of X-rays in a German laboratory, to the scientists trying to prove Einstein wrong (and inadvertently proving him right), The Matter of Everything takes us on a journey through the history of experiments that transformed our world.Trade ReviewVividly described . . . A sweeping but detailed and pacy account of 100 years of scientific advancement, The Matter of Everything has a cheering takeaway. What such leaps lie ahead? What questions seem intractable now that we won’t give a thought to in the future? Sheehy mounts the case that – with persistence, curiosity and collaboration – we may yet overcome challenges that now seem impossible * New Scientist *The Matter of Everything . . . brings out the stars of experimental physics, the people who directly observe, hypothesise and build machines firing beams of matter and energy to test theory against reality . . . Give[s] a real sense of the thrill of scientific discovery * The Times *The perfect bedside book for anyone who wants to ponder the remarkable achievements of physics. A rich history of beautiful discoveries -- Robin InceIt’s a rare writer that can pluck the biggest ideas in science out of the sky, and bring them down to earth in a way that anyone can understand. In her first fantastic book, Suzie takes on the seemingly unreachable inner life of atoms, and places it directly into our hands. More than just a history of particle physics, this is an interconnected web of experiments, people and stories that are simultaneously passionate and profound -- Helen ArneyThis is a book about the fundamental problems of physics written from a viewpoint I hadn’t come across before: that of the experimenter. Someone first thought of the cloud chamber, or the cyclotron, or the MRI scanner, and that person (or that team) had to build one: you couldn’t buy one off the shelf. The actual sequence of experiments, and failures, and more experiments, and success, is a fascinating one, especially for any readers excited, as I am, by the thought of making things. A splendid idea, vividly carried out: I enjoyed this book enormously -- Philip PullmanThis fascinating and highly readable book captures the radical excitement of experimental science as it's being made. It’s an all-action thriller, laced with some of the most profound ideas humans have ever had -- Brian EnoA wonderful telling of the history of particle physics . . . Suzie has written a book that makes these important stories and ideas from the history of science accessible, and genuinely enjoyable to read -- Alom ShahaA magical tour of the great experiments defining the most incredible century in physics . . . Sheehy seamlessly weaves the science and history with why this matters to all of us: as she expertly illustrates, our quest to understand the tiniest of particles has had an enormous impact on technology, health and society, reaching far beyond the lab -- Andrew Steele, author of AGELESSAn impassioned, elegant history of particle physics and its applications. Dr Sheehy adroitly brings together a glittering cast of characters – from the famous giants of the field to the unjustly overlooked scientists whose shoulders they stood on – to tell the story of the most fundamental of all sciences -- Ananyo Bhattacharya, author of THE MAN FROM THE FUTUREA fabulous read, tracing the history of twelve experiments in particle physics from idea to impact, critically through the eyes of the scientists. The stories in and of themselves are fascinating, and together illustrate a larger story about science: the power of international collaboration and competition, the generations its takes for science to translate from the lab to social benefit, the interdependency between basic and applied and the unwritten contribution of many women scientists -- Jonathan Grant, Director of Different Angles and author of THE NEW POWER UNIVERSITYThis is storytelling at its very best and why I fell in love with physics. Sheehy's attention to detail shines through every story and yet there's a lightness of touch in the way she highlights the passion, drive, ingenuity and, ultimately, the sheer triumph of science in unlocking nature's secrets -- Jim Al-KhaliliA thrilling ride through ingenious experiments that changed the world: this book matters! -- Dr Karl
£10.44
Cambridge University Press Elementary Particle Physics
Book SynopsisAn up-to-date introduction to the fundamentals of particle physics for advanced undergraduate students. Key topics are accompanied by extensive examples drawn from contemporary experimental results, practice problems based on real datasets, and intuitive explorations of the underlying physical theory.Trade Review'Larkoski's Elementary Particle Physics has a unique blend of purely theoretical calculations and experimental analyses that are both accessible to undergraduates. The history of the field is not forgotten but instead blended throughout the text to allow for 'breaks' for the reader from the often (and unavoidably) complex subject matter. Given the highly changing field, using the very recent results will be beneficial to the students of the subject.' Christopher A. Aubin, Fordham University, New York'This is a much-needed textbook for an advanced physics major course with a modern yet accessible introduction to and explanation of the guiding principles of particle physics and current experimental methods.' Ann Nelson, University of Washington'In Elementary Particle Physics, Larkoski has succeeded at creating a welcome and spectacular modern learning resource that takes a practical approach to the essential experimental and theoretical tools of the field while capturing the excitement and essence of its most relevant discoveries.' Andreas Warburton, McGill University, Montreal'Larkoski's book will interest a large audience because it starts from basic principles and covers a wide range of topics all the way to discussions on research at the frontiers of particle physics. The book will be very useful to students and researchers working in phenomenological particle physics.' Alakabha Datta, University of Mississippi'This elementary textbook, suitable for either advanced undergraduate or introductory postgraduate courses, is a gem … will certainly find its way among the most popular particle physics textbooks. Its clear and intuitive presentation will doubtlessly deepen the understanding of students who read it, and inspire lecturers to a more conceptual approach to teaching.' Nikolaos Rompotis, CERN CourierTable of Contents1. Introduction; 2. Special relativity; 3. A little group theory; 4. Fermi's golden rule and Feynman diagrams; 5. Particle collider experiment; 6. Quantum electrodynamics in e+e- collisions; 7. Quarks and gluons; 8. Quantum chromodynamics; 9. Parton evolution and jets; 10. Parity violation; 11. The mass scales of the weak force; 12. Consequences of weak interactions; 13. The Higgs boson; 14. Particle physics at the frontier; Appendix A. Useful identities; Appendix B. Review of quantum mechanics; Appendix C. Particle physics jargon glossary; Appendix D. Bibliography.
£48.99
Penguin Books Ltd Elusive
Book SynopsisThe story of the Higgs boson - the so-called ''God particle'' - and the man who thought of itIn the summer of 1964, a reclusive young professor at the University of Edinburgh wrote two scientific papers which have come to change our understanding of the most fundamental building blocks of matter and the nature of the universe. Peter Higgs posited the existence an almost infinitely tiny particle - today known as the Higgs boson - which is the key to understanding why particles have mass, and but for which atoms and molecules could not exist.For nearly 50 years afterwards, some of the largest projects in experimental physics sought to demonstrate the physical existence of the boson which Higgs had proposed. Sensationally, confirmation came in July 2012 at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN in Geneva. The following year Higgs was awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics. One of the least-known giants of science, he is the only person in history to have had a single parTrade Reviewthorough and fascinating ... Close spoke at length to Higgs and the result is a highly detailed and rich narrative ... a piece of scientific history. -- Jay Elwes * Spectator *An illuminating guide to the man and the science behind the Higgs boson ... the tale of the conception and discovery of the Higgs boson, a tiny tremor in an energy field that pervades the whole universe, is one of the most important in modern physics. Without the Higgs there would be no atoms or people or planets or stars or anything except restless particles zipping through space in splendid isolation. Close, a particle physicist who has served as head of communications and public education at Cern, is an excellent guide to the knotty science of that story, as well as what we do know about the mysterious man himself. -- Ananyo Bhattacharya * Guardian *a clear, vivid and occasionally even beautiful portrait of a scientific breakthrough: the tale of how a relatively obscure Scotland-based physicist developed a stunning theory, one that would help illuminate the invisible, particulate web that holds our universe together -- Deborah Blum * New York Times *a five star book - it reaches parts other books on the Higgs have failed to reach and Frank Close does a brilliant job -- Brian Clegg * Popular Science *A fascinating biography of an elusive particle and the equally elusive man who predicted its existence half a century before it was found. If the Higgs boson is the God particle then I feel I have glimpsed the mind of its creator. -- Jim Al-KhaliliClose tells the intertwined stories of Higgs's life and the discovery of the Higgs boson with the aid of a deep understanding of the physics involved and the benefit of many meetings with Higgs himself. There have been other books on the same theme, but this is far and away the best. Where Close excels is in explaining the fundamental principles of particle physics in language anyone likely to pick up this book will understand. ... Elusive works as a biography of Peter Higgs, as an account of one of the greatest intellectual advances in human history and, best of all, as an answer to anyone who asks why we should bother to carry out experiments like those performed at CERN. Buy it. -- John Gribbin * Literary Review *Close is among today's best writers on the history of quantum mechanics -- EconomistParticular brilliance ... This accessible account tells the story of the quest, and of the man who made it possible * BBC History Magazine *reveals the sheer complexity, detail and dazzling precision that, for the scientist, constitutes 'beauty in nature'. Close maintains a strong narrative line - we are watching and waiting throughout for the Higgs boson to be identified. -- Sue Roe * Mail on Sunday *A perfect marriage of subject and writer. With verve, insight, and rigor, Frank Close beautifully illuminates the life and times of one of physics' great, unheralded giants. Elusive is a triumph of a book, and one worthy of its subject's extraordinary contributions. -- bestselling author of The Founders * Jimmy Soni *Elusive is both a deep, exciting intellectual history and an elegantly told portrait of a quiet man whose 'one great idea' changed modern physics forever. Close marries the exotic details of contemporary particle physics theory with the very human aspects of how that theory came to be. An enlightening read from one of our very best writers and practitioners of physics. -- author of The Last Man Who Knew Everything * David N. Schwartz *Rich, compelling, and surprising. Fundamental physics can be equal parts awe-inspiring and head-spinning, and Close masterfully captures those qualities in this deeply satisfying tale of Peter Higgs's convoluted, and very human, journey through life and science. -- author of The Ascent of Information * Caleb Scharf *beautifully, engagingly written ... I was reassured by the characteristic wisdom and honesty of Close's judgement that, while the discovery of the Higgs particle completes the Standard Model of the atom, "Internal completeness is a mathematical requirement, whereas describing the world around us is the demand of natural philosophy". That sentence alone makes Elusive my book of the year. -- Raymond Tallis * Times Literary Supplement Books of the Year *Frank Close is probably the perfect person to tell the tale of Higgs and his boson. A serious physicist himself, he is also an exceptional author - and, unlike with most authors, his subject actually occasionally speaks to him. -- Tom Whipple * Times Books of the Year *the first full biography of Higgs ... focuses just as much on Higgs the particle as he does on Higgs the scientist, and the physics concepts he explores can be daunting. But this excellent book is well worth the effort. -- Mike Perricone * Symmetry Books of the Year *A compelling account of the long search for the Higgs boson -- Books of the Year * Economist *Because there would be no atoms or molecules without the intervention of the Higgs field, our very existence is a consequence of its reality ... a compulsive read. Besides explaining the physics and exploring the many personalities involved, it also conveys the excitement of physics research, the missed opportunities, the happy coincidences, the false trails, the social networks, the collaborations and professional rivalries. Like an established scientific fact that will stand for all time, this book is a definitive account of an historic scientific achievement. -- Rick Marshall * Physics Education *
£11.69
Oxford University Press Methods of Xray and Neutron Scattering in Polymer Science
Book SynopsisThis book presents the basic theories underlying x-ray and neutron scattering, as well as the various techniques that have been developed for their application to the study of polymers. The two scattering methods are discussed together from the beginning, so as to allow readers to gain a unified view of the scattering phenomena. The book is introductory and may be used as a textbook in polumer science class or for self-study by polymer scientists new in scattering techniques.Trade Review"By presenting the two methods together and emphasizing their similarities, Ryong-Joon Roe has written an introductory textbook that enables readers to become equally familiar with both techniques ... Roe suceeds admirably in giving a balanced and unified presentation of the basic theory underlying both x-ray and neutron scattering" Physics TodayTable of Contents1: Basics of X-ray and Neutron Scattering 1.1: Properties of X-rays and Neutrons 1.2: Scattering and Interference 1.3: Scattering of X-rays 1.4: Scattering of Neutrons 1.5: Auto-correlation Function and Reciprocal Space 1.6: Scattering Due to the Sample as a Whole 1.7: Diffraction by Crystals 2: Experimental Techniques 2.1: Radiation Source 2.2: Monochromatization 2.3: Absorption 2.4: Detectors 2.5: Cameras and Diffractometers 2.6: Multiple Scattering 2.7: Absolute Intensity Calibration 3: Crystalline Polymers 3.1: Introduction 3.2: Lattice Parameters 3.3: Crystal Structure Analysis 3.4: Line Broadening and Crystal Imperfections 3.5: Degree of Crystallinity 3.6: Orientation 4: Amorphous Polymers 4.1: Short Range Order 4.2: Thermal Density Fluctuation 5: Small Angle Scattering 5.1: Model Structures Studied by Small Angle Scattering 5.2: Dilute Particulate System 5.3: Non-particulate Two-phase system 5.4: Fractal Objects 5.5: Periodic System 5.6: Slit Collimation and Desmearing 6: Polymer Blends, Block Copolymers, and Deuterium Labeling 6.1: Polymer Blends 6.2: Block Copolymers 6.3: Deuterium Labeling 7: Methods of Study for Surfaces and Interfaces 7.1: Introduction 7.2: Reflectivity 7.3: Approximate Method 7.4: Examples of Experimental Studies 8: Inelastic Neutron Scattering 8.1: Theory of Inelastic Scattering 8.2: Simple Models of Motions 8.3: Spectrometers 8.4: Examples of Experimental Studies Appendix A: Refresher on Complex Numbers Appendix B: Fourier Transform Appendix C: Reciprocal Lattice Appendix D: Constants and Conversion Factors Glossary of Symbols
£109.24
Clarendon Press The Physics of Particle Accelerators
Book SynopsisThe complex technology of particle accelerators is based upon a series of often rather simple physical concepts. This comprehensive introduction to the subject focuses on providing a deep physical understanding of these key ideas. The book surveys the many aspects of accelerator physics and not only explains how accelerators work, but also why the underlying physics leads to a particular choice of design or technique, and points out the limitations of the technology. The clear and thorough mathematical treatment always emphasizes the physical principles described by the equations, and includes a range of calculations which develop a genuine feeling for the quantities and concepts involved.Table of ContentsPreface ; List of symbols ; 1. Introduction ; 2. Synchroton radiation ; 3. Linear beam optics ; 4. Injection and extraction ; 5. RF systems for particle accelerators ; 6. Radiative effects ; 7. Luminosity ; 8. Wigglers and undulators ; 9. The free electron laser (FEL) ; 10. Diagnostics ; Appendix A: Maxwell's equations ; Appendix B: Some important relations in special relativity ; Appendix C: General equation of an ellipse in phase space ; References ; Index
£76.00
Clarendon Press Group Theory in Subnuclear Physics 19 Oxford Studies in Nuclear Physics
Book SynopsisThe book, which has grown out of a course given over the past ten years, provides an introduction to group theory and its application in subnuclear physics, particularly in multi-quark systems and hadron spectroscopy. A number of exercises, with solutions, are included.Trade ReviewThe book may be treated as a modern "practical introduction to concepts of group theory and some of their applications, especially in subnuclear physics"......In the text, the general statements and investigations are illustrated by many concrete examples given, as a rule, in explicit expanded mathematical form. A large number of tables (about 50) most of which are original forms an essential part of the book. * Zeitschrift fur Mathematik *Table of Contents1. Symmetries in quantum mechanics ; 2. Elements of group theory ; 3. Linear representations of a group ; 4. Permutation group Sn ; 5. Lie groups ; 6. The orthogonal group ; 7. The Poincare group and the Lorenz group ; 8. Unitary groups ; 9. Gauge groups ; 10. Multiquark systems ; Appendix A: Conservation Laws ; Appendix B: The rearrangement theorem, Schur's lemmas and the orthogonality theorem ; Appendix C: Invariant Integration ; Appendix D: Dimension of an SU(n) irrep
£162.00
Oxford University Press Relativity
Book SynopsisRelativistic cosmology has in recent years become one of the most active and exciting branches of research, often considered to be today where particle physics was forty years ago, with major discoveries just waiting to happen. Consequently the part most affected by this second edition is the last part on cosmology. But there are additions, improvements, and new exercises throughout. _ The book''s basic purpose is unchanged. It is to make relativity come alive conceptually, and to display the grand theoretical edifice that it is, with consequences in many branches of physics. The emphasis is on the foundations, on the logical subtleties, and on presenting the necessary mathematics - including differential geometry and tensors - but always as late and in as palatable a form as possible. Aided by over 300 exercises, the book seeks to promote an in-depth understanding, and the confidence to tackle any basic problem in relativity.Trade ReviewRindler's writing is elegant, yet compact and logically precise. ... this book should be on the shelf of all who are intrigued by the startling modern advances in our understanding of space and time. * American Journal of Physics *An outstanding introductory treatise by one of the masters of the subject, this book belongs to the shelves of every physics library. * Foundations of Physics *... a self-contained and balanced work. Every sentence hits home, and no word is superfluous. Each chapter ends with a set of well-chosen and instructive exercises. ... it exposes the reader to the physics with inspiring and occasionally surprising arguments. ... a totally successful textbook and a must for all who study special and general relativity. * Physik Journal *... a first-class presentation of the intellectual glory of the first century of relativity. * Times Higher Education Supplement *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION; PART I: SPECIAL RELATIVITY; PART II: GENERAL RELATIVITY; PART III: COSMOLOGY
£52.25
Oxford University Press Who Cares about Particle Physics Making Sense of
Book SynopsisCERN, the European Laboratory for particle physics, regularly makes the news. What kind of research happens at this international laboratory and how does it impact people''s daily lives? Why is the discovery of the Higgs boson so important? Particle physics describes all matter found on Earth, in stars and all galaxies but it also tries to go beyond what is known to describe dark matter, a form of matter five times more prevalent than the known, regular matter. How do we know this mysterious dark matter exists and is there a chance it will be discovered soon? About sixty countries contributed to the construction of the gigantic Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN and its immense detectors. Dive in to discover how international teams of researchers work together to push scientific knowledge forward.Here is a book written for every person who wishes to learn a little more about particle physics, without requiring prior scientific knowledge. It starts from the basics to build a solid understanding of current research in particle physics. A good dose of curiosity is all one will need to discover a whole world that spans from the infinitesimally small and stretches to the infinitely large, and where imminent discoveries could mark the dawn of a huge revolution in the current conception of the material world.Trade ReviewA great general interest primer with a surprising and welcome feminist focus -- Most highly recommended. * Times Higher Education *I am giving this book four stars for its interesting insider content and particularly its insight into the way that the LHC is used that I have never seen elsewhere ... it's a book that's well worth reading if you have interest in this most fundamental of physical explorations. * Brian Clegg, Popular Science *Pauline Gagnon tells the wonderful scientific adventure of CERN that led to confirming the existence of the Higgs boson and that should bring a revolution in physics in elucidating big enigmas in the coming years such as the mystery of dark matter or the disappearance of antimatter. * Pauline Gravel, science writer, Le Devoir newspaper, Montreal *Pauline Gagnon's book is a wonderfully detailed and comprehensive look at how scientists have pieced together our best understanding of the natural world, from accelerators to cosmology. If you want to know how particle physicists really work and think, this is a great place to start. * Sean Carroll, author of The Particle at the End of the Universe *I am fascinated. You should read it too; everybody can read it and understand it. Madame Gagnon has a knack for finding very efficient images to make us understand extremely complex phenomena. * Catherine Perrin, host of Médium Large on Radio-Canada *Pauline Gagnon is an inside-woman of the particle-physics world — and this excellent book shows just that. The comprehensive account of where particle physics stands today is peppered by colourful metaphors that make even the most complex concepts accessible to everyone. On top of that, Gagnon gives the reader a glimpse into the inner workings of CERN and thoroughly describes how its huge international collaborations actually make new discoveries. This is a book that admirably delivers on the promise of taking the general reader seriously and a timely must-read if you want to get up to speed with Run 2 of the Large Hadron Collider. * Leonie Mueck, Senior Editor, Nature *During the two-year search for Higgs in the LHC, Dr. Gagnon's lively and insightful blog was a key source for those outside the physics community who needed to keep track of the process and have it explained in layperson' terms. Her excellent book will now be essential reading for those seeking to understand why the discovery was important, and what might come next from the LHC. * Robert Evans, former Reuter correspondent in Geneva *Table of Contents1: What is matter made of? 2: What about the Higgs boson? 3: Accelertors and detector, the essential tools 4: The discovery of the Higgs boson 5: The dark side of the Universe 6: Going beyond the Standard Model: calling SUSY to the rescue 7: What does fundamental research put on our plate? 8: CERN experiments: a unique management and cooperation model 9: Diversity in science 10: What could th next big discoveries be?
£20.99
Oxford University Press Antimatter
Book SynopsisAntimatter explores a strange mirror world, where particles have identical yet opposite properties to those that make up the familiar matter we encounter everyday; where left becomes right, positive becomes negative; and where, should matter and antimatter meet, the two annihilate in a blinding flash of energy that makes even thermonuclear explosions look feeble by comparison. It is an idea long beloved of science-fiction stories--but here, renowned science writer Frank Close shows that the reality of antimatter is even more fascinating than the fiction itself. We know that once, antimatter and matter existed in perfect counterbalance, and that antimatter then perpetrated a vanishing act on a cosmic scale that remains one of the greatest mysteries of the universe. Today, antimatter does not exist normally, at least on Earth, but we know that it is real for scientists are now able to make small pieces of it in particle accelerators, such as that at CERN in Geneva. Looking at the remarkable prediction of antimatter and how it grew from the meeting point of relativity and quantum theory in the early 20th century, at the discovery of the first antiparticles, at cosmic rays, annihilation, antimatter bombs, and antiworlds, Close separates the facts from the fiction about antimatter, and explains how its existence can give us profound clues about the origins and structure of the universe.Oxford Landmark Science books are ''must-read'' classics of modern science writing which have crystallized big ideas, and shaped the way we think.Trade ReviewReview from previous edition To miss out on books like this is to miss out on a grasp of the astounding nature of the universe, * Nicholas Lezard, The Guardian *The book does not overburden the reader with dense technical details or equations, it rather offers an accessible, elegant, thought-provoking and up-to-date overview on the subject, representing a great resource filled with vital information on antimatter for the science and the science-fiction lovers. * Eric Howard, Contemporary Physics *This compact book is a wonderful source of information on antimatter and offers us a meticulously researched account of the nature, properties and applications of the often overlooked entities in the fantastic antiworld around us. * Chemistry World *This is a must-read for fans of science and science fiction alike * John Gribbin, www.bbcfocusmagazine.com *Beautifully written... This book will inspire a sense of awe in even the most seasoned readers of physics books. * Amanda Gefter, New Scientist *Beautifully concise history of one vital aspect of twentieth-century particle physics. * Mark Ronan, Times Literary Supplement *Table of ContentsForeword: 'Genesis' 1: Antimatter: Fact or Fiction? 2: The Material World 3: Tablets of Stone 4: A Cosmic Discovery 5: Annihilation 6: Storing Antimatter 7: The Mirror Universe 8: Why is There Anything at All? 9: Revelations Appendix: The Cost of Antimatter Appendix: 'The Dirac Code' Notes Bibliography Index
£9.97
Oxford University Press Quantum Mechanics for Beginners
Book SynopsisQuantum mechanics is a highly successful yet mysterious theory. Quantum Mechanics for Beginners provides an accessible introduction to this fascinating subject for those with only a high school background in physics and mathematics. This book is entirely algebra-based, except for the last chapter on the Schrodinger equation. A major advantage of this book is that it provides an introduction to the fields of quantum communication and quantum computing. Topics covered include wave-particle duality, Heisenberg uncertainty relation, Bohr''s principle of complementarity, quantum superposition and entanglement, Schrodinger''s cat, Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox, Bell theorem, quantum no-cloning theorem and quantum copying, quantum eraser and delayed choice, quantum teleportation, quantum key distribution protocols such as BB-84 and B-92, counterfactual communication, quantum money, quantum Fourier transform, quantum computing protocols including Shor and Grover algorithms, quantum dense coding, and quantum tunneling. All these topics and more are explained fully, but using only elementary mathematics. Each chapter is followed by exercises and a short list of references. This book is meant for beginning college students as well as advanced high school students, and can be used as a text for a one-semester course at the undergraduate level. It can also be useful for those who want to learn some of the fascinating recent and ongoing developments in areas related to the foundations of quantum mechanics and its applications to areas like quantum communication and quantum computing.Trade ReviewThe real attraction of Zubairy's book, which I think makes it unique, is the immensely readable introduction to the modern applications of quantum mechanics that derive from entanglement, such as quantum communication and computing, action at a distance, quantum encryption, Bell inequalities and all that. For someone, who has been used to employ quantum mechanics as the standard tool for the time-honored applications mentioned above, this is a wonderful book to update his or her understandings of these developments, which have pushed the foundations and the mystery of quantum mechanics again to the forefront of physics research. The book reminds one a lot of Feynman's approach to teaching quantum mechanics to undergraduates. It will make all these recent developments accessible to first-year students. It may persuade many a young student to personally partake in this exciting field of research. * Wilhelm Becker, Max Born Institute Berlin *The objectives of this book are two-fold. On one hand, the foundation of quantum mechanics and the laws of quantum theory are discussed. On the other hand, novel applications of these ideas to modern and evolving fields of quantum communication and quantum computing are presented, with as little mathematics as possible. The target audience is clearly undergraduate students in physics. But anyone curious about contemporary subjects in quantum physics (cryptography, teleportation, computing) will profit from reading this book. * Christian Brosseau, Optics and Photonics News *The illustrations and brief explanations are wonderfully easy to think about, and compact and accurate. A freshman student might not actually "learn" QM from taking a course based on this book, but he/she would be excellently prepared to go into it in a serious way at the next level, without distortions or mistaken impressions conveyed by a weaker text. The book is a true success. * Center for Coherence and Quantum Optics, University of Rochester *Table of Contents1: What is this book about? I Introductory Topics 2: Mathematical background 3: Particle dynamics 4: Wave theory II Fundamentals of quantum mechanics 5: Fundamentals of quantum mechanics 6: Birth of quantum mechanics - Planck, Einstein, Bohr 7: de Broglie waves: Are electrons waves or particles? 8: Quantum interference -- wave-particle duality 9: Simplest quantum devices: Polarizers and beam splitters 10: Quantum superposition and entanglement 11: No-cloning theorem 12: EPR and Bell theorem III Quantum communication 13: Quantum secure communication 14: Quantum communication with invisible photons IV Quantum computing 15: Quantum computing I 16: Quantum computing II V Schrodinger equation 17: Demise of Newtonian dynamics: Schrodinger equation
£34.99
Oxford University Press Gauging Whats Real
Book SynopsisGauge theories have provided our most successful representations of the fundamental forces of nature. How, though, do such representations work? Interpretations of gauge theory aim to answer this question. Through understanding how a gauge theory''s representations work, we are able to say what kind of world our gauge theories reveal to us.A gauge theory''s representations are mathematical structures. These may be transformed among themselves while certain features remain the same. Do the representations related by such a gauge transformation merely offer alternative ways of representing the very same situation? If so, then gauge symmetry is a purely formal property since it reflects no corresponding symmetry in nature.Gauging What''s Real describes the representations provided by gauge theories in both classical and quantum physics. Richard Healey defends the thesis that gauge transformations are purely formal symmetries of almost all the classes of representations provided by each ofTrade ReviewI loved this book. It is not an easy read, but it is deeply rewarding - an important monograph and a useful reference all in one. Its 2008 Lakatos prize was well-earned. * David John Baker Mind 119 *Healey's book is a major achievement that will undoubtably serve as a valuable reference work as well as stimulate further debate and research. * Ward Struyve, Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews *Table of ContentsIntroduction ; 1. What is a Gauge Theory? ; 2. The Aharonov-Bohm E[currency]ect ; 3. Classical Gauge Theories ; 4. Interpreting Classical Gauge Theories ; 5. Quantized Yang-Mills Gauge Theories ; 6. The Empirical Import of Gauge Symmetry ; 7. Loop Representations ; 8. Interpreting Quantized Yang-Mills Gauge Theories ; 9. Conclusions
£104.12
Oxford University Press Atomic Physics
Book SynopsisThis book provides a bridge between the basic principles of physics learned as an undergraduate and the skills and knowledge required for advanced study and research in the exciting field of atomic physics. The text is organized in a unique and versatile format --- as a collection of problems, hints, detailed solutions, and in-depth tutorials. This enables the reader to open the book at any page and get a solid introduction to subjects on the cutting edge of atomic physics, such as frequency comb metrology, tests of fundamental symmetries with atoms, atomic magnetometers, atom trapping and cooling, and Bose-Einstein condensates. The text also includes problems and tutorials on important basics that every practicing atomic physicist should know, but approached from the perspective of experimentalists: formal calculations are avoided where possible in favor of ''back-of-the-envelope'' estimates, symmetry arguments, and physical analogies. The 2nd edition contains over 10 new problems, anTrade Review'A remarkable book, indeed, greatly exceeding our expectations. [...] The authors are truly taken by the logic, beauty, and harmonious diversity of atomic-physics phenomena and are offering to share their knowledge and insights with the reader.' From Preface to the Russian edition, by V.S. Zapaskii (translator) and E.B. Alexandrov (editor)Table of Contents1. Atomic Structure ; 2. Atoms in External Fields ; 3. Interaction of Atoms with Light ; 4. Interaction of Light with Atoms in External Fields ; 5. Atomic Collisions ; 6. Cold Atoms ; 7. Molecules ; 8. Experimental Methods ; 9. Miscellaneous Topics ; A. Units, conversion factors, and typical values ; B. Reference data for hydrogen and alkali atoms ; C. Spectroscopic notation for atoms and diatomic molecules ; D. Description of polarization states of light ; E. Euler angles and rotation matrices ; F. The Wigner-Eckart theorem and irreducible tensors ; G. The density matrix ; H. Elements of the Feynman diagram technique ; APPENDIX I: THE 3-J AND 6-J SYMBOLS
£45.12
Oxford University Press Modern Quantum Theory
Book SynopsisIn the last few decades quantum theory has experienced an extensive revival owing to the rapid development of quantum information and quantum technologies. Based on a series of courses taught by the authors, the book takes the reader on a journey from the beginnings of quantum theory in the early twentieth century to the realm of quantum-information processing in the twenty-first. The central aim of this textbook, therefore, is to offer a detailed introduction to quantum theory that covers both physical and information-theoretic aspects, with a particular focus on the concept of entanglement and its characteristics, variants, and applications. Suitable for undergraduate students in physics and related subjects who encounter quantum mechanics for the first time, this book also serves as a resource for graduate students who want to engage with more advanced topics, offering a collection of derivations, proofs, technical methods, and references for graduate students and more experienced rTable of ContentsPART I - QUANTUM MECHANICS 1: Wave-Particle Duality 2: The Time-Dependent Schrödinger Equation 3: Mathematical Formalism of Quantum Mechanics 4: The Time-Independent Schrödinger Equation 5: The Quantum Harmonic Oscillator 6: Orbital Angular Momentum 7: The Three-Dimensional Schrödinger Equation 8: Spin and Atomic Structure 9: Electromagnetism in Quantum Mechanics 10: Perturbative Methods in Quantum Mechanics PART II - ENTANGLEMENT AND NON-LOCALITY 11: Density Matrices 12: Hidden-Variable Theories 13: Bell Inequalities 14: Quantum Teleportation 15: Entanglement and Separability 16: Quantification and Conversion of Entanglement 17: High-Dimensional Quantum Systems 18: Multipartite Entanglement PART III - ADVANCED TOPICS IN MODERN QUANTUM PHYSICS 19: Entropy of Classical Systems 20: Quantum Entropy and Correlations in Quantum Information 21: Quantum Channels and Quantum Operations 22: Open Quantum Systems, Decoherence, Atom-Field Coupling 23: Quantum Measurements 24: Quantum Metrology 25: Quantum States of Light 26: Particle Physics - Bell Inequalities 27: Particle Physics - Entanglement & Decoherence Free
£61.75
Oxford University Press Quantum Field Theory for the Gifted Amateur
Book SynopsisQuantum field theory is arguably the most far-reaching and beautiful physical theory ever constructed, with aspects more stringently tested and verified to greater precision than any other theory in physics. Unfortunately, the subject has gained a notorious reputation for difficulty, with forbidding looking mathematics and a peculiar diagrammatic language described in an array of unforgiving, weighty textbooks aimed firmly at aspiring professionals. However, quantum field theory is too important, too beautiful, and too engaging to be restricted to the professionals. This book on quantum field theory is designed to be different. It is written by experimental physicists and aims to provide the interested amateur with a bridge from undergraduate physics to quantum field theory. The imagined reader is a gifted amateur, possessing a curious and adaptable mind, looking to be told an entertaining and intellectually stimulating story, but who will not feel patronised if a few mathematical niceties are spelled out in detail. Using numerous worked examples, diagrams, and careful physically motivated explanations, this book will smooth the path towards understanding the radically different and revolutionary view of the physical world that quantum field theory provides, and which all physicists should have the opportunity to experience.Trade ReviewA refreshing hands-on approach ... [and] a tremendous resource to have to hand or perhaps to use as a textbook for a first course on QFT to a mixed audience. * Clifford V. Johnson, Physics Today *A treasury of contemporary material presented concisely and lucidly in a format that I can recommend for independent study ... I believe that this volume offers an attractive, new "rock and roll" approach, filling a large void in the spectrum of QFT books. * Johann Rafelski, CERN Courier *The authors succeed remarkably in opening up the concepts of Quantum Field Theory to a broad, physically and mathematically trained readership. [...] The book is a valuable addition to the wide range of QFT books already available, and is suitable as self-study for the novice, as accompaniment for courses, and also as a valuable reference for those already familiar with the subject. * Physik Journal *This is a wonderful, and much needed book ... Why have the authors been so successful? It is the way the book has been structured. Each of the 50 chapters is short. Every chapter starts with a readable plan of what is to be explained and why; and finishes with a compact summary of the key ideas that have been covered. Moreover, the language is kept as simple as possible. The aim is always to be clear and difficult ideas are approached gently. The text is interspersed with a large number of detailed worked examples which are central to the story and which are arranged so as not to intimidate the reader ... They have produced an accessible book that gives us a wonderful opportunity to understand QFT and its numerous applications * Alan D. Martin, Contemporary Physics *There is a need for a book on Quantum Field Theory that is not directed at specialists but, rather, sets out the concepts underlying this subject for a broader scientific audience and conveys joy in their beauty. Lancaster and Blundell have written with this goal in mind, and they have succeeded admirably. * Michael Peskin, SLAC Naitonal Accelerator Laboratory, Stanford University *This wonderful and exciting book is optimal for physics graduate students. The authors are brilliant educators who use worked examples, diagrams and mathematical hints placed in the margins to perfect their pedagogy and explain quantum field theory. * Barry R. Masters, Optics & Photonics News *Table of ContentsI: THE UNIVERSE AS A SET OF HARMONIC OSCILLATORS; II: WRITING DOWN LAGRANGIANS; III: THE NEED FOR QUANTUM FIELDS; IV: PROPAGATORS AND PERTURBATIONS; V: INTERLUDE: WISDOM FROM STATISTICAL PHYSICS; VI: PATH INTEGRALS; VII: TOPOLOGICAL IDEAS; VIII: RENORMALIZATION: TAMING THE INFINITE; IX: PUTTING A SPIN ON QFT; X: SOME APPLICATIONS FROM THE WORLD OF CONDENSED MATTER; XI: SOME APPLICATIONS FROM THE WORLD OF PARTICLE PHYSICS
£91.00
The University of Chicago Press Fermilab
Book SynopsisFermi National Accelerator Laboratory, located in the western suburbs of Chicago, has stood at the frontier of high-energy physics for forty years. This title tells the history of this laboratory and of its powerful accelerators that is told from the point of view of the people who built and used them for scientific discovery.Trade Review"Fermilab will be of interest to anyone curious about science and science policy." (Physics World) "Fermilab's story is well told and attractively framed in the book, a fitting capstone for the edifice of historical scholarship that the authors have erected over 30 years. Megascience requires 'megahistory,' and Hoddeson knows how to pioneer in that field." (Science)"
£39.40
The University of Chicago Press Constructing Quarks
Book SynopsisRecounts the history of the post-war conceptual development of elementary-particle physics. Inviting a reappraisal of the status of scientific knowledge, the text suggests that scientists are not mere passive observers and reporters of nature.
£35.15
The University of Chicago Press Stars as Laboratories for Fundamental Physics
Book SynopsisDescribes what the study of stars reveals about fundamental particle interactions, presenting the many uses of stellar astrophysics for research in basic particle physics. The text focuses primarily on the properties and nongravitational interactions of elementary particles.Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments 1: The Energy-Loss Argument 2: Anomalous Stellar Energy Losses Bounded by Observations 3: Particles Interacting with Electrons and Baryons 4: Processes in a Nuclear Medium 5: Two-Photon Coupling of Low-Mass Bosons 6: Particle Dispersion and Decays in Media 7: Nonstandard Neutrinos 8: Neutrino Oscillations 9: Oscillations of Trapped Neutrinos 10: Solar Neutrinos 11: Supernova Neutrinos 12: Radiative Particle Decays from Distant Sources 13: What Have We Learned from SN 1987A? 14: Axions 15: Miscellaneous Exotica 16: Neutrinos: The Bottom Line App. A. Units and Dimensions App. B. Neutrino Coupling Constants App. C. Numerical Neutrino Energy-Loss Rates App. D. Characteristics of Stellar Plasmas References Acronyms Symbols Subject Index
£72.20
The University of Chicago Press Currents and Mesons
Book Synopsis
£28.50
The University of Chicago Press Kaon Physics
Book SynopsisThis work examines the field of physics dedicated to strange particles, particles which seemed to have 900 times the mass of electrons and which exist both in charged and neutral varieties. Topics covered include the history of kaon physics and direct CP volation in kaon decays.
£97.00
MIT Press Ltd Ever Smaller Natures Elementary Particles from
Book SynopsisIdeas, theories, experiments, and unanswered questions in particle physics, explained (with anecdotes) for the general reader.The elementary particles of matter hold the secrets of Nature together with the fundamental forces. In Ever Smaller, neutrino physicist Antonio Ereditato describes the amazing discoveries of the “particle revolution,” explaining ideas, theories, experiments, and unanswered questions in particle physics in a way that is accessible (and enjoyable) for the general reader. Ereditato shows us that physics is not the exclusive territory of scientists in white lab coats exclaiming “Eureka” but that its revelations can be appreciated by any reader curious about the mysteries of the universe.Ereditato's overview takes us through a century of particle physics, from the discovery of the components of the atom through an endless procession of subatomic particles—the pion, the muon, the quarks, the W, Z, gluon, Higgs boso
£28.80
Taylor & Francis Ltd Energy and Entropy
Book SynopsisEnergy is typically regarded as understandable, despite its multiple forms of storage and transfer. Entropy, however, is an enigma, in part because of the common view that it represents disorder. That view is flawed and hides entropy's connection with energy. In fact, macroscopic matter stores internal energy, and that matter's entropy is determined by how the energy is stored. Energy and entropy are intimately linked.Energy and Entropy: A Dynamic Duo illuminates connections between energy and entropy for students, teachers, and researchers. Conceptual understanding is emphasised where possible through examples, analogies, figures, and key points.Features: Qualitative demonstration that entropy is linked to spatial and temporal energy spreading, with equilibrium corresponding to the most equitable distribution of energy, which corresponds to maximum entropy Analysis of energy and entropy of Trade Review"In this book Leff (emer., California State Polytechnic Univ.) intertwines all aspects of energy and entropy through a plethora of subjects, from classical topics such as the Clausius inequality to the relatively new "nonequilibrium equality for free energy differences" as discussed by C. Jarzynski…The author is to be commended for engaging readers in considering the concept of energy and entropy using accessible mathematics. The strength of this book lies in the author's endeavor to create "Key Point" snippets throughout the book. These points are the cream of the crop, accentuating and demystifying important concepts, and empowering the reader to leave each chapter with essential takeaways. Though the book lacks problems and exercises at the end of each chapter, this does not diminish the value of a text that is sure to appear on the bookshelf of confirmed thermodynamicists, and will furnish a possible technical elective for upper-division students in engineering and physics. The volume can also serve as an excellent reference resource for graduate students in engineering and physics with research interests in materials science, biophysical systems, and magnetic nanoparticles in biotechnology, to name a few areas of applicability.Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals."—R. N. Laoulache, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in CHOICE November 2021 (Vol. 59 No. 3) "Not often does one have the chance to read a book that is the result of a lifetime of productive thought about an important subject, but such is the case with Harvey Leff’s Energy and Entropy. One is astounded by the depth and breadth of this book. And, what is more, Professor Leff has a deft way of appealing to various kinds of readers: professionals who want to see the mathematics and those who desire a more conceptual understanding. If you have room on your bookshelf for only one volume on thermodynamics, (and I don’t say this lightly) your choice should be Energy and Entropy." — Don S. Lemons, Professor of Physic Emeritus, Bethel College, North Newton, Kansas "Harvey Leff has used his lifelong interest and expertise in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics to write a delightful monograph on the relation between energy and entropy. The author explains the relation with thoughtful explanations including detailed examples, many of which are glossed over in most thermodynamics texts. Although most of the text is intended to expand on traditional material, more advanced topics such as the Jarznski equality are also discussed. The text should be of particular interest to students who are puzzled by the many subtleties of thermodynamics and by instructors who wish to offer a deeper understanding of the subject." — Harvey Goud, Clark University "In this volume Harvey Leff has made a unique contribution by illustrating many connections between entropy and energy in a wide range of contexts, both theoretical and practical. The book begins with what is essentially a review of the laws of thermodynamics, with energy featured in connection with the first law and entropy in connection with the second. Although Leff includes the historical underpinnings of thermodynamics going back to the 19th century, he also addresses more contemporary topics such as black hole entropy, Landauer’s principle, the entropy of information and computation, and recent efforts to find violations of the second law. The book contains numerous simple but effective illustrations and graphs. A pedagogical feature that many readers will find effective is the use of “key points” that give a brief synopsis of the preceding section of text. I found that the key points often provide a bridge from one section to the next. This book is highly recommended as a learning tool for professionals and graduate students who seek a more comprehensive and wide-ranging treatment of entropy in its many forms and applications." — Andrew Rex, University of Puget Sound "Energy and Entropy: A Dynamic Duo offers many insights to many different audiences. But Leff rightly identifies "teachers of physics, chemistry, and engineering" first on his list of prospective readers. Perhaps no other group of scientists has a greater need for a conscience than those of us who teach thermodynamics… Unlike many other books on the subject, Energy and Entropy does not give its reader the impression that thermodynamics is a fully resolved product of the 19th century. Leff demonstrates that significant discoveries have been made since the contributions of Boltzmann and Gibbs. He provides an accessible introduction to the Jarzynski equality. He also traces the many discoveries that were motivated by Maxwell's demon, illustrating how statistical mechanics led to later developments in information theory… Leff is careful throughout his book to emphasize that energy and entropy are equal partners. He also refrains from treating these quantities as abstract concepts. The presentation rarely strays from a plausible experiment. Even the discussion of information theory is rooted in measurable physical quantities. My overall impression of this book can be characterized by the title of an article that Leff contributed to The Physics Teacher. The title of the article is Thermodynamics Is Easy-I've Learned It Many Times. When reading a good book on the subject, I agree. Thermodynamics can seem easy, particularly when the book is written by a scientist whose previous work has helped to clarify fundamental issues. But as I continue to grapple with the subject, I know that I will continue to find more subtle points in need of explanation. And when those future moments inevitably arrive, Energy and Entropy will be among the books to which I'll turn in order to find my conscience." — Eric Johnson, Chair of the Department of Chemistry at Mount St. Joseph University, in American Journal of Physics Vol 89, No 7 (2021). "In this book Leff (emer., California State Polytechnic Univ.) intertwines all aspects of energy and entropy through a plethora of subjects, from classical topics such as the Clausius inequality to the relatively new "nonequilibrium equality for free energy differences" as discussed by C. Jarzynski…The author is to be commended for engaging readers in considering the concept of energy and entropy using accessible mathematics. The strength of this book lies in the author's endeavor to create "Key Point" snippets throughout the book. These points are the cream of the crop, accentuating and demystifying important concepts, and empowering the reader to leave each chapter with essential takeaways. Though the book lacks problems and exercises at the end of each chapter, this does not diminish the value of a text that is sure to appear on the bookshelf of confirmed thermodynamicists, and will furnish a possible technical elective for upper-division students in engineering and physics. The volume can also serve as an excellent reference resource for graduate students in engineering and physics with research interests in materials science, biophysical systems, and magnetic nanoparticles in biotechnology, to name a few areas of applicability.Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals."—R. N. Laoulache, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in CHOICE November 2021 (Vol. 59 No. 3) "Not often does one have the chance to read a book that is the result of a lifetime of productive thought about an important subject, but such is the case with Harvey Leff’s Energy and Entropy. One is astounded by the depth and breadth of this book. And, what is more, Professor Leff has a deft way of appealing to various kinds of readers: professionals who want to see the mathematics and those who desire a more conceptual understanding. If you have room on your bookshelf for only one volume on thermodynamics, (and I don’t say this lightly) your choice should be Energy and Entropy." — Don S. Lemons, Professor of Physic Emeritus, Bethel College, North Newton, Kansas "Harvey Leff has used his lifelong interest and expertise in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics to write a delightful monograph on the relation between energy and entropy. The author explains the relation with thoughtful explanations including detailed examples, many of which are glossed over in most thermodynamics texts. Although most of the text is intended to expand on traditional material, more advanced topics such as the Jarznski equality are also discussed. The text should be of particular interest to students who are puzzled by the many subtleties of thermodynamics and by instructors who wish to offer a deeper understanding of the subject." — Harvey Goud, Clark University "In this volume Harvey Leff has made a unique contribution by illustrating many connections between entropy and energy in a wide range of contexts, both theoretical and practical. The book begins with what is essentially a review of the laws of thermodynamics, with energy featured in connection with the first law and entropy in connection with the second. Although Leff includes the historical underpinnings of thermodynamics going back to the 19th century, he also addresses more contemporary topics such as black hole entropy, Landauer’s principle, the entropy of information and computation, and recent efforts to find violations of the second law. The book contains numerous simple but effective illustrations and graphs. A pedagogical feature that many readers will find effective is the use of “key points” that give a brief synopsis of the preceding section of text. I found that the key points often provide a bridge from one section to the next. This book is highly recommended as a learning tool for professionals and graduate students who seek a more comprehensive and wide-ranging treatment of entropy in its many forms and applications." — Andrew Rex, University of Puget Sound "Energy and Entropy: A Dynamic Duo offers many insights to many different audiences. But Leff rightly identifies "teachers of physics, chemistry, and engineering" first on his list of prospective readers. Perhaps no other group of scientists has a greater need for a conscience than those of us who teach thermodynamics… Unlike many other books on the subject, Energy and Entropy does not give its reader the impression that thermodynamics is a fully resolved product of the 19th century. Leff demonstrates that significant discoveries have been made since the contributions of Boltzmann and Gibbs. He provides an accessible introduction to the Jarzynski equality. He also traces the many discoveries that were motivated by Maxwell's demon, illustrating how statistical mechanics led to later developments in information theory… Leff is careful throughout his book to emphasize that energy and entropy are equal partners. He also refrains from treating these quantities as abstract concepts. The presentation rarely strays from a plausible experiment. Even the discussion of information theory is rooted in measurable physical quantities. My overall impression of this book can be characterized by the title of an article that Leff contributed to The Physics Teacher. The title of the article is Thermodynamics Is Easy-I've Learned It Many Times. When reading a good book on the subject, I agree. Thermodynamics can seem easy, particularly when the book is written by a scientist whose previous work has helped to clarify fundamental issues. But as I continue to grapple with the subject, I know that I will continue to find more subtle points in need of explanation. And when those future moments inevitably arrive, Energy and Entropy will be among the books to which I'll turn in order to find my conscience." — Eric Johnson, Chair of the Department of Chemistry at Mount St. Joseph University, in American Journal of Physics Vol 89, No 7 (2021). Table of Contents1 Energy is Universal. 2 Energy is Not Enough. 3 Entropy: Energy’s Needed Partner. 4 Gases, Solids, Polymers. 5 Radiatin and Photons. 6 Numerical Entropy. 7 Language and Philosophy of Thermodynamics. 8 Working, Heating, Cooling. 9 Sanctity of the 2nd law of Thermodynamics. 10 Reflections and Extensions. 11 Appendices: Mathematical Identities
£45.99
Springer-Verlag New York Inc. Laser Cooling and Trapping Graduate Texts in
Book SynopsisIntended for advanced undergraduates and beginning graduates with some basic knowledge of optics and quantum mechanics, this text begins with a review of the relevant results of quantum mechanics, before turning to the electromagnetic interactions involved in slowing and trapping atoms and ions, in both magnetic and optical traps.Table of ContentsI Introduction.- 1 Review of Quantum Mechanics.- 1.1 Time-Dependent Perturbation Theory.- 1.2 The Rabi Two-Level Problem.- 1.2.1 Light Shifts.- 1.2.2 The Dressed Atom Picture.- 1.2.3 The Bloch Vector.- 1.2.4 Adiabatic Rapid Passage.- 1.3 Excited-State Decay and its Effects.- 2 The Density Matrix.- 2.1 Basic Concepts.- 2.2 Spontaneous Emission.- 2.3 The Optical Bloch Equations.- 2.4 Power Broadening and Saturation.- 3 Force on Two-Level Atoms.- 3.1 Laser Light Pressure.- 3.2 A Two-Level Atom at Rest.- 3.3 Atoms in Motion.- 3.3.1 Traveling Wave.- 3.3.2 Standing Wave.- 4 Multilevel Atoms.- 4.1 Alkali-Metal Atoms.- 4.2 Metastable Noble Gas Atoms.- 4.3 Polarization and Interference.- 4.4 Angular Momentum and Selection Rules.- 4.5 Optical Transitions in Multilevel Atoms.- 4.5.1 Introduction.- 4.5.2 Radial Part.- 4.5.3 Angular Part of the Dipole Matrix Element.- 4.5.4 Fine and Hyperfine Interactions.- 5 General Properties Concerning Laser Cooling.- 5.1 Temperature and Thermodynamics in Laser Cooling.- 5.2 Kinetic Theory and the Maxwell-Boltzmann Distribution.- 5.3 Random Walks.- 5.4 The Fokker-Planck Equation and Cooling Limits.- 5.5 Phase Space and Liouville’s Theorem.- II Cooling & Trapping.- 6 Deceleration of an Atomic Beam.- 6.1 Introduction.- 6.2 Techniques of Beam Deceleration.- 6.2.1 Laser Frequency Sweep.- 6.2.2 Varying the Atomic Frequency: Magnetic Field Case.- 6.2.3 Varying the Atomic Frequency: Electric Field Case.- 6.2.4 Varying the Doppler Shift: Diffuse Light.- 6.2.5 Broadband Light.- 6.2.6 Rydberg Atoms.- 6.3 Measurements and Results.- 6.4 Further Considerations.- 6.4.1 Cooling During Deceleration.- 6.4.2 Non-Uniformity of Deceleration.- 6.4.3 Transverse Motion During Deceleration.- 6.4.4 Optical Pumping During Deceleration.- 7 Optical Molasses.- 7.1 Introduction.- 7.2 Low-Intensity Theory for a Two-Level Atom in One Dimension..- 7.3 Atomic Beam Collimation.- 7.3.1 Low-Intensity Case.- 7.3.2 Experiments in One and Two Dimensions.- 7.4 Experiments in Three-Dimensional Optical Molasses.- 8 Cooling Below the Doppler Limit.- 8.1 Introduction.- 8.2 Linear ? Linear Polarization Gradient Cooling.- 8.2.1 Light Shifts.- 8.2.2 Origin of the Damping Force.- 8.3 Magnetically Induced Laser Cooling.- 8.4 ?+-?- Polarization Gradient Cooling.- 8.5 Theory of Sub-Doppler Laser Cooling.- 8.6 Optical Molasses in Three Dimensions.- 8.7 The Limits of Laser Cooling.- 8.7.1 The Recoil Limit.- 8.7.2 Cooling Below the Recoil Limit.- 8.8 Sisyphus Cooling.- 8.9 Cooling in a Strong Magnetic Field.- 8.10 VSR and Polarization Gradients.- 9 The Dipole Force.- 9.1 Introduction.- 9.2 Evanescent Waves.- 9.3 Dipole Force in a Standing Wave: Optical Molasses at High Intensity.- 9.4 Atomic Motion Controlled by Two Frequencies.- 9.4.1 Introduction.- 9.4.2 Rectification of the Dipole Force.- 9.4.3 The Bichromatic Force.- 9.4.4 Beam Collimation and Slowing.- 10 Magnetic Trapping of Neutral Atoms.- 10.1 Introduction.- 10.2 Magnetic Traps.- 10.3 Classical Motion of Atoms in a Magnetic Quadrupole Trap.- 10.3.1 Simple Picture of Classical Motion in a Trap.- 10.3.2 Numerical Calculations of the Orbits.- 10.3.3 Early Experiments with Classical Motion.- 10.4 Quantum Motion in a Trap.- 10.4.1 Heuristic Calculations of the Quantum Motion of Magnetically Trapped Atoms.- 10.4.2 Three-Dimensional Quantum Calculations.- 10.4.3 Experiments in the Quantum Domain.- 11 Optical Traps for Neutral Atoms.- 11.1 Introduction.- 11.2 Dipole Force Optical Traps.- 11.2.1 Single-Beam Optical Traps for Two-Level Atoms.- 11.2.2 Hybrid Dipole Radiative Trap.- 11.2.3 Blue Detuned Optical Traps.- 11.2.4 Microscopic Optical Traps.- 11.3 Radiation Pressure Traps.- 11.4 Magneto-Optical Traps.- 11.4.1 Introduction.- 11.4.2 Cooling and Compressing Atoms in a MOT.- 11.4.3 Capturing Atoms in a MOT.- 11.4.4 Variations on the MOT Technique.- 12 Evaporative Cooling.- 12.1 Introduction.- 12.2 Basic Assumptions.- 12.3 The Simple Model.- 12.4 Speed and Limits of Evaporative Cooling.- 12.4.1 Boltzmann Equation.- 12.4.2 Speed of Evaporation.- 12.4.3 Limiting Temperature.- 12.5 Experimental Results.- III Applications.- 13 Newtonian Atom Optics and its Applications.- 13.1 Introduction.- 13.2 Atom Mirrors.- 13.3 Atom Lenses.- 13.3.1 Magnetic Lenses.- 13.3.2 Optical Atom Lenses.- 13.4 Atomic Fountain.- 13.5 Application to Atomic Beam Brightening.- 13.5.1 Introduction.- 13.5.2 Beam-Brightening Experiments.- 13.5.3 High-Brightness Metastable Beams.- 13.6 Application to Nanofabrication.- 13.7 Applications to Atomic Clocks.- 13.7.1 Introduction.- 13.7.2 Atomic Fountain Clocks.- 13.8 Application to Ion Traps.- 13.9 Application to Non-Linear Optics.- 14 Ultra-cold Collisions.- 14.1 Introduction.- 14.2 Potential Scattering.- 14.3 Ground-state Collisions.- 14.4 Excited-state Collisions.- 14.4.1 Trap Loss Collisions.- 14.4.2 Optical Collisions.- 14.4.3 Photo-Associative Spectroscopy.- 14.5 Collisions Involving Rydberg States.- 15 deBroglie Wave Optics.- 15.1 Introduction.- 15.2 Gratings.- 15.3 Beam Splitters.- 15.4 Sources.- 15.5 Mirrors.- 15.6 Atom Polarizers.- 15.7 Application to Atom Interferometry.- 16 Optical Lattices.- 16.1 Introduction.- 16.2 Laser Arrangements for Optical Lattices.- 16.3 Quantum States of Motion.- 16.4 Band Structure in Optical Lattices.- 16.5 Quantum View of Laser Cooling.- 17 Bose-Einstein Condensation.- 17.1 Introduction.- 17.2 The Pathway to BEC.- 17.3 Experiments.- 17.3.1 Observation of BEC.- 17.3.2 First-Order Coherence Experiments in BEC.- 17.3.3 Higher-Order Coherence Effects in BEC.- 17.3.4 Other Experiments.- 18 Dark States.- 18.1 Introduction.- 18.2 VSCPT in Two-Level Atoms.- 18.3 VSCPT in Real Atoms.- 18.3.1 Circularly Polarized Light.- 18.3.2 Linearly Polarized Light.- 18.4 VSCPT at Momenta Higher Than ±hk.- 18.5 VSCPT and Bragg Reflection.- 18.6 Entangled States.- IV Appendices.- A Notation and Definitions.- B Review Articles and Books on Laser Cooling.- C Characteristic Data.- D Transition Strengths.- References.
£53.99
Springer Laser Cooling and Trapping
Book SynopsisLaser cooling is a new technique that has led to new insights into the behavior of atoms. This text covers the foundations, the techniques, and applications: from atomic clocks and studies of collision processes to diffraction and interference of atomic beams at optical lattices. It is aimed at advanced undergraduates and beginning graduates.Table of ContentsIntroduction and review of quantum mechanics: Review of Quantum Mechanics.- The Density Matrix.- Force on Two-Level Atoms.- Multi-Level Atoms.- General Properties Concerning Laser Cooling. Cooling and Trapping: Deceleration of an Atomic Beam.- Optical Molasses.- Cooling Below the Doppler Limit.- The Dipole Force.- Magentic Trapping of Neutral Atoms.- Optical Traps for Neutral Atoms.- Evaporative Cooling. Applications: Newtonian Atom Optics.- Ultra-Cold Collisions.- deBrooglie-Wave Optics.- Optical Lattices.- Bose -Einstein Condensation.- Dark States.
£67.92
WW Norton & Co The Elegant Universe
Book SynopsisA new edition of the New York Times bestseller—now a three-part Nova special: a fascinating and thought-provoking journey through the mysteries of space, time, and matter.Trade Review"As rewarding as it gets....A thrilling ride through a lovely landscape." -- Los Angeles Times"Compulsively readable....Greene threatens to do for string theory what Stephen Hawking did for black holes." -- New York"Brian Greene...makes the terribly complex theory of strings accessible to all. He possesses a remarkable gift for using the everyday to illustrate what may be going on in dimensions beyond our feeble human perception." -- Publishers Weekly"Greene does an admirable job of translating a wholly mathematical endeavor into visual terms. Throughout his work, he writes with poetic eloquence and style." -- Marcia Bartusiak - Washington Post Book World"[A] beautifully crafted account of string theory—a theory that appears to be a most promising waystation on the road to an ultimate theory of everything. His book gives a clear, simple, yet masterful account that makes a complex theory very accessible to nonscientists but is also a delightful; read for the professional." -- David M. Lee, professor of physics, Cornell University"Everyone who is curious about the horizons of theoretical physics—past, present, and future—will enjoy this book." -- Edward Witten, Institute for Advanced Study"[A] delightful, lucid introduction to the greatest problem in all of physics, the quest to unify all the laws of nature. Greene does a masterful job in presenting complex materials in a lively, engaging manner. Highly recommended to anyone who has ever gazed at the heavens and wondered, as Einstein did, if God had a choice in making the universe." -- Michio Kaku, author of Hyperspace and Visions"[A] tour-de-force of science writing. Perhaps more than any other popular-level account, this book peels away layers of detail and reveals the stunning essence of cutting-edge physics. With a rare blend of scientific integrity and literary flair, the author takes us on a whirlwind journey to the forefront of the search for the ultimate theory of the universe." -- Shing-Tung Yau, Harvard University; Fields Medalist, winner of the National Medal of Science
£22.79
John Wiley & Sons Inc Photonic Crystals Theory Applications and
Book SynopsisThe Only Source You Need for Understanding the Design and Applications of Photonic Crystal-Based Devices This book presents in detail the fundamental theoretical background necessary to understand the unique optical phenomena arising from the crystalline nature of photonic-crystal structures and their application across a range of disciplines. Organized to take readers from basic concepts to more advanced topics, the book covers: Preliminary concepts of electromagnetic waves and periodic media Numerical methods for analyzing photonic-crystal structures Devices and applications based on photonic bandgaps Engineering photonic-crystal dispersion properties Fabrication of two- and three-dimensional photonic crystals The authors assume an elementary knowledge of electromagnetism, vector calculus, Fourier analysis, and complex number analysis. Therefore, the book is appropriate forTable of ContentsChapter 1. Introduction 1 1.1 Historical Overview 3 1.2 Analogy Between Photonic and Semiconductor Crystals 6 1.3 Analyzing Photonic-Bandgap Structures 8 References 11 Chapter 2. Preliminary Concepts of Electromagnetic Waves and Periodic Media 17 2.1 Electromagnetic Waves 17 2.1.1 Maxwell’s Equations in Linear, Homogeneous Media 18 2.1.2 Electromagnetic Waves 21 2.1.3 Optical Waves 23 2.1.4 Guided Waves 28 2.1.5 Group Velocity in Homogeneous Media 37 2.2 Periodic Media 38 2.2.1 Real-Space Lattices, Lattice Vectors 39 2.2.2 Reciprocal Lattice and Brillouin Zone 47 2.3 Waves in Periodic Media 49 2.3.1 Wave Equation in Periodic Dielectric Structures 49 2.3.2 Group Velocity in Periodic Media 55 2.3.3 Dispersion Surfaces and Band Diagrams 57 References 60 Chapter 3. Numerical Methods 63 3.1 Overview 63 3.2 Plane-Wave Expansion Method 65 3.2.1 Preliminaries 65 3.2.2 One-Dimensional Plane-Wave Expansion Method 66 3.2.3 Two-Dimensional Plane-Wave Expansion Method 72 3.2.4 Three-Dimensional Plane-Wave Expansion Method 84 3.2.5 Practical Considerations in the Implementation of the Plane-Wave Expansion Method 87 3.2.6 Photonic-Crystal Slab by Plane-Wave Expansion Method 90 3.2.7 Revised Plane-Wave Method for Dispersive Material and its Application to Band-Structure Calculations of Photonic-Crystal Slabs 102 3.3 Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) Method 108 3.3.1 Central-Difference Expressions of Maxwell’s Equations 109 3.3.2 Two-Dimensional FDTD Method 110 3.3.3 Three-Dimensional FDTD Method 112 3.3.4 Numerical Stability and Dispersion 114 3.3.5 Simulating Transient and Steady-State System Response 116 3.3.6 Absorbing Boundary Conditions 118 3.3.7 FDTD for Photonic Crystals 122 References 125 Chapter 4. Devices and Applications Based on Photonic Bandgaps 133 4.1 Introduction 133 4.2 Point Defects 134 4.2.1 Numerical Analysis of Point Defects 134 4.2.2 Design Criteria for Photonic-Crystal Cavities 137 4.3 Line Defects 139 4.3.1 Photonic-Crystal Line Defects for Waveguiding 140 4.3.2 Line Defects in Photonic-Crystal Slabs 144 4.3.3 Extracting Dispersion Properties Using a Single-Frequency Source 147 4.4 Applications that Use Strong Confinement in PhC 150 4.4.1 Waveguide Bends 150 4.4.2 Zero-Cross-Talk Waveguide Crossing 154 4.4.3 Narrow-Band Beam Splitter 156 4.4.4 Air-Bridge Microcavity 157 4.4.5 Channel-Drop Filters in Photonic Crystals 159 4.4.6 Optical Spectrometer 160 4.4.7 Hybrid Photonic-Crystal Structures 163 4.4.8 Electrically and Thermally Tunable Photonic Crystals 168 4.4.9 Photonic-Crystal Optical Networks 169 4.4.10 Coupled Photonic-Crystal Waveguides 171 4.4.11 Other Applications of Photonic Bandgap 188 References 189 Chapter 5. Engineering Photonic-Crystal Dispersion Properties 197 5.1 Introduction 197 5.2 Dispersion in Photonic Crystals 198 5.3 Superprism Effect 201 5.4 Self-Collimation 205 5.4.1 Experimental Demonstration of Self-Collimation 208 5.4.2 Self-Guiding Heterolattice 211 5.4.3 Redirecting Light in Self-Collimating PhCs 214 5.4.4 Beam Splitting in Self-Collimating PhC 217 5.4.5 Optical Analog-to-Digital Converter 224 5.4.6 Self-Collimation in Three-Dimensional Photonic Crystals 231 5.4.7 Experimental Verification of 3D Self-Collimation 239 5.5 Left-Handed Behavior and Negative Refraction 245 5.5.1 3D Subwavelength Imaging by a Photonic-Crystal Flat Lens 247 5.6 Superprism, Negative Refraction and Self-Collimation 254 5.7 Summary 259 References 259 Chapter 6. Fabrication 263 6.1 Two-Dimensional Photonic Crystals 263 6.1.1 Fabrication of Planar Photonic Crystals 266 6.1.2 Fabrication of 2D Photonic Crystals 269 6.2 Three-Dimensional Photonic Crystals: Micromachining 274 6.2.1 Layer-by-Layer Fabrication 274 6.2.2 Woodpile Photonic Crystals 281 6.2.3 Autocloning Technique 297 6.2.4 Glancing Angle Deposition (GLAD) 307 6.2.5 Macroporous Silicon 313 6.2.6 Realizing Yablonovite for Near Infrared with Chemically Assisted Ion-Beam Etching 323 6.2.7 Sculpting Bulk Silicon with Reactive Plasma 327 6.3 Three-Dimensional Photonic Crystals: Holographic Lithography 333 6.3.1 Interference of Coherent Waves 334 6.3.2 Patterning PhCs with Interference Lithography 336 6.3.3 Engineering the Interference Pattern 336 6.3.4 Holographic Fabrication Methods for 3D PhCs 341 6.3.5 Summary 349 6.4 Three-Dimensional Photonic Crystals: Multiphoton Polymerization 350 6.4.1 Stereolithography/Laser Rapid Prototyping to Fabricate Arbitrary 3D Structures 350 6.4.2 Multiphoton Absorption 350 6.4.3 PhC Fabrication Using Multiphoton Absorption 356 6.5 Three-Dimensional Photonic Crystals: Self-Assembly 358 6.5.1 Monodisperse Colloidal Suspensions 359 6.5.2 Colloidal Crystallization 362 6.5.3 Self-Assembly Methods 364 References 369 Index 383
£130.45
John Wiley and Sons Ltd Radiation Biology of Medical Imaging
Book SynopsisThis book provides a thorough yet concise introduction to quantitative radiobiology and radiation physics, particularly the practical and medical application.Trade Review“This is a very comprehensive text that goes far beyond the content most would expect given the rather specific title.” (Scope, 1 March 2015) Table of ContentsAcknowledgments vii Introduction ix 1 Anatomy and Physiology 1 2 The Cell 19 3 Radiation Characteristics and Units 41 4 Radiation Interactions with Tissue 61 5 Cell Survival Curves 81 6 Dna and Genetics 105 7 Radiation Damage and Repair of Cells 125 8 Normal and Malignant Cells 145 9 Radiation Effects on Tissues and Organs 161 10 Whole Body Radiation Effects 179 11 Radiation Treatment of Cancer 191 12 Radiation Biology of Diagnostic Imaging 203 13 Nuclear Medicine Radiation Biology 219 14 Environmental Radiation 241 15 Regulations and Risk 255 16 Biological Effects of Ultrasound 269 17 Biological Effects of Magnetic Resonance Imaging 281 Answers to Odd-numbered Questions 297 Index 301
£88.95
John Wiley & Sons Inc A Matter of Density
Book SynopsisThe origins and significance of electron density in the chemical, biological, and materials sciences Electron density is one of the fundamental concepts underlying modern chemistry and one of the key determinants of molecular structure and stability. It is also the basic variable of density functional theory, which has made possible, in recent years, the application of the mathematical theory of quantum physics to chemical and biological systems. With an equal emphasis on computational and philosophical questions, A Matter of Density: Exploring the Electron Density Concept in the Chemical, Biological, and Materials Sciences addresses the foundations, analysis, and applications of this pivotal chemical concept. The first part of the book presents a coherent and logically connected treatment of the theoretical foundations of the electron density concept. Discussion includes the use of probabilities in statistical physics; the origins of quantum mechanics; tTrade Review“Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals.” (Choice, 1 September 2013)Table of ContentsPreface vii Contributors ix 1 Introduction of Probability Concepts in Physics—The Path to Statistical Mechanics 1 N. Sukumar 2 Does God Play Dice? 15 N. Sukumar 3 The Electron Density 41 N. Sukumar and Sunanda Sukumar 4 Atoms in Molecules 67 N. Sukumar 5 Density Functional Approach to the Electronic Structure of Matter 107 N. Sukumar 6 Density-Functional Approximations for Exchange and Correlation 125 Viktor N. Staroverov 7 An Understanding of the Origin of Chemical Reactivity from a Conceptual DFT Approach 157 Arindam Chakraborty, Soma Duley, Santanab Giri, and Pratim Kumar Chattaraj 8 Electron Density and Molecular Similarity 203 N. Sukumar 9 Electrostatic Potentials and Local Ionization Energies in Nanomaterial Applications 233 Peter Politzer, Felipe A. Bulat, James Burgess, Jeffrey W. Baldwin, and Jane S. Murray 10 Probing Electron Dynamics with the Laplacian of the Momentum Density 257 Preston J. MacDougall and M. Creon Levit 11 Applications of Modern Density Functional Theory to Surfaces and Interfaces 271 G. Pilania, H. Zhu, and R. Ramprasad Index 313
£113.00
John Wiley & Sons Inc Elements of Modern Xray Physics
Book SynopsisEagerly awaited, this second edition of a best-selling text comprehensively describes from a modern perspective the basics of x-ray physics as well as the completely new opportunities offered by synchrotron radiation.Table of ContentsPreface v Preface to the first edition vi Acknowledgements from the first edition vii Notes on the use of this book vii 1 X-rays and their interaction with matter 1 1.1 X-rays: waves and photons 2 1.2 Scattering 5 1.3 Absorption 18 1.4 Refraction and reflection 23 1.5 Coherence 25 1.6 Magnetic interactions 27 1.7 Further reading 28 2 Sources 29 2.1 Early history and the X-ray tube 29 2.2 Introduction to synchrotron radiation 30 2.3 Synchrotron radiation from a circular arc 33 2.4 Undulator radiation 43 2.5 Wiggler radiation 59 2.6 Free-electron lasers 61 2.7 Compact light sources 62 2.8 Coherence volume and photon degeneracy 64 2.9 Further reading 66 2.10 Exercises 66 3 Refraction and reflection from interfaces 69 3.1 Refraction and phase shift in scattering 70 3.2 Refractive index and scattering length density 71 3.3 Refractive index including absorption 75 3.4 Snell’s law and the Fresnel equations in the X-ray region 77 3.5 Reflection from a homogeneous slab 81 3.6 Specular reflection from multilayers 85 3.7 Reflectivity from a graded interface 89 3.8 Rough interfaces and surfaces 90 3.9 Examples of reflectivity studies 97 3.10 X-ray optics 101 3.11 Further reading 111 3.12 Exercises 111 4 Kinematical scattering I: non-crystalline materials 113 4.1 Two electrons 114 4.2 Scattering from an atom 118 4.3 Scattering from a molecule 123 4.4 Scattering from liquids and glasses 125 4.5 Small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) 134 4.6 Further reading 145 4.7 Exercises 145 5 Kinematical scattering II: crystalline order 147 5.1 Scattering from a crystal 147 5.2 Quasiperiodic structures 164 5.3 Crystal truncation rods 169 5.4 Lattice vibrations, the Debye-Waller factor and TDS 172 5.5 The measured intensity from a crystallite 179 5.6 Applications of kinematical diffraction 187 5.7 Further reading 203 5.8 Exercises 204 6 Diffraction by perfect crystals 207 6.1 One atomic layer: reflection and transmission 209 6.2 Kinematical reflection from a few layers 210 6.3 Darwin theory and dynamical diffraction 212 6.4 The Darwin reflectivity curve 216 6.5 DuMond diagrams 230 6.6 Further reading 237 6.7 Exercises 7 Photoelectric absorption 239 7.1 X-ray absorption by an isolated atom 242 7.2 EXAFS and near-edge structure 251 7.3 X-ray dichroism 261 7.4 ARPES 268 7.5 Further reading 271 7.6 Exercises 272 8 Resonant scattering 275 8.1 The forced charged oscillator model 277 8.2 The atom as an assembly of oscillators 281 8.3 The Kramers-Kronig relations 282 8.4 Numerical estimate of f′ 284 8.5 Breakdown of Friedel’s law and Bijvoet pairs 289 8.6 The phase problem in crystallography 295 8.7 Quantum mechanical description 300 8.8 Further reading 302 8.9 Exercises 302 9 Imaging 305 9.1 Introduction 305 9.2 Absorption contrast imaging 307 9.3 Phase contrast imaging 318 9.4 Coherent diffraction imaging 329 9.5 Holography 335 9.6 Further reading 340 9.7 Exercises 340 A Scattering and absorption cross-sections 343 B Classical electric dipole radiation 349 C Quantization of the electromagnetic field 355 D Gaussian statistics 361 E Fourier transforms 363 F Comparison of X-rays with neutrons 371 G MATLAB® computer programs 373 H Answers to exercises and hints 397 Bibliography 403 Index 407 List of symbols 417
£45.86
Cambridge University Press Particle Physics and the Schrödinger Equation
Book SynopsisIntroduces modern developments on the bound state problem in Schrödinger potential theory and its applications in particle physics. It covers two-body problems, relativistic generalisations, the inverse problem, 3-body and N-body problems. Emphasis is given to showing how theory can be tested by experiment. Many references are provided.Trade Review'The book is clearly written, general results are illustrated by concrete applications to atomic and particle physics and the authors do not assume a knowledge of advanced mathematics. All that make this book very useful and valuable for theoretical and experimental particle and atomic physicists, especially for newcomers to the field.' Robert Alicki, Zentralblatt für MathematikTable of ContentsPart I. Introduction; Part II. Two-body Problems: 1. General properties; 2. Order of energy levels; 3. Spacing of energy levels; 4. Miscellaneous results on the wave function at the origin; 5. Relativistic generalizations of results on level ordering; 6. The inverse problem for confining potentials; 7. Counting the number of bound states; Part III. Miscellaneous Results On The 3-body and N-body Problem: Appendices; References; Index.
£36.99
Cambridge University Press Electron
Book SynopsisThis book marked the centenary of the discovery of the electron by J. J. Thomson in 1897, an event which occurred at a great turning point in the history of scientific ideas, and the impact of which on the development of science in the twentieth century has been profound.Trade ReviewReview of the hardback: 'This is an excellent book for its declared purpose of providing collateral reading at the Physics World level to those who already have a background in modern physics. There is more than enough here to allow the electron to consider its birthday suitably celebrated.' P. W. Anderson, The Times Higher Education SupplementReview of the hardback: '… this is a fine birthday tribute to the electron, and a good starting point for physicists wishing to delve a little deeper into a field of study adjacent to their own.' Jonathan Butterworth, New ScientistReview of the hardback: 'Each chapter is a fascinating story in its own right.' E. E. Davis, The ObservatoryReview of the hardback: 'This is an impressive and attractive book and has been very well produced by Cambridge University Press.' Contemporary PhysicsTable of Contents1. J. J. Thomson and the discovery of the electron A. B. P. Pippard; 2. The isolated electron W. N. Cottingham; 3. The relativistic electron D. I. Olive; 4. The electron glue B. L. Gyorffy; 5. The electron fluid P. Coleman; 6. The magnetic electron G. G. Lonzarich; 7. The paired electron A. J. Leggett; 8. The heavy electron M. Springford; 9. The coherent electron Y. Imry and M. Peskin; 10. The composite electron R. Nicholas; 11. The electron in the cosmos M. S. Longair.
£36.99
Cambridge University Press Diagrammatica The Path to Feynman Diagrams 0004 Cambridge Lecture Notes in Physics Series Number 4
Book SynopsisThis book provides an easily accessible introduction to quantum field theory via Feynman rules and calculations in particle physics. Written as a graduate textbook, many diagrams, exercises and examples are included.Trade Review"...a masterful introduction to quantum field theory and its application to elementary particle physics through Feynman diagrams. The approach is constructive rather than deductive, and the book offers many fine insights into the physics content of results that may be thought of as purely mathematical." Ernest Ma and Jose Wudka, Physics Today"...would be a useful and solid starting point for a novice field theorist..." R. Delbourgo, Mathematical ReviewsTable of ContentsIntroduction; 1. Lorentz and Poincaré invariance; 2. Relativistic quantum mechanics of free particles; 3. Interacting fields; 4. Particles with spin; 5. Explorations; 6. Renormalization; 7. Massive and massless vector fields; 8. Unitarity; Appendices.
£29.99
Cambridge University Press String Theory and Particle Physics An Introduction to String Phenomenology
Book SynopsisAimed at graduate students and researchers working in high energy physics, this book is a systematic introduction to string phenomenology. Focused on the detailed description of how string theory is connected to the real world of particle physics, it provides explicit models of physics beyond the Standard Model.Trade Review'This is the first fully modern treatment of string compactifications, written by two of the masters of the subject. It provides an excellent general introduction to string theory, and in-depth coverage of both the latest developments (including detailed pedagogical discussions of frontier topics like flux compactifications and D-brane instanton effects), as well as more traditional subjects (such as model-building with heterotic strings). It will be invaluable as a textbook for curious students, and a reference volume of lasting value for experts working in the field. If, as many of us hope, the LHC era reveals new clues linking particle physics to string-scale physics, acquaintance with the material in this volume may well provide crucial tools for exploring and exploiting those links.' Shamit Kachru, Stanford University and SLAC'A clear exposition of the main ideas and ingredients necessary to connect string theory to the real world. An essential toolkit for the string theory model builder.' Juan Maldacena, Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton'… a unique and long awaited book written by two of the leading figures in the field … This is the first book that is devoted to summarise the research that has been performed during the past 25 years on the effort to extract physical implications of string theory … The authors have managed to find an excellent balance between the rigour of the content while at the same time making it pedagogical enough to be followed by a wide audience. It will provide invaluable and comprehensive material for graduate students entering the field, for non-string theorists who want to expand their research projects but also as the best authoritative source of information for active string theorists. This will be the standard reference on this active field for years to come.' Fernando Quevedo, Professor of Theoretical Physics, DAMTP, University of Cambridge and Director ICTP, Trieste'The scope of this book is impressive, covering all the major developments in the construction of compactified string theories. As an introduction to string theory it is excellent and, as a tool for constructing realistic models, unmatched. Essential reading for all those wishing to study string theory in depth and an invaluable reference for those already expert in the field.' Graham Ross, University of Oxford'… an excellent text. It is also a useful resource for experienced researchers, since much of the material, otherwise difficult to obtain (or even to read), has been curated in a pedagogically sound and clear fashion.' Physics TodayTable of ContentsPreface; 1. The standard model and beyond; 2. Supersymmetry; 3. Introduction to string theory: the bosonic string; 4. Superstrings; 5. Toroidal compactification of superstrings; 6. Branes and string duality; 7. Calabi–Yau compactifications of heterotic superstrings; 8. Heterotic string orbifolds and other exact CFT constructions; 9. Heterotic string compactifications: effective action; 10. Type IIA orientifold compactifications: intersecting brane worlds; 11. Type IIB orientifold compactifications; 12. Type II compactifications: effective action; 13. String instantons and effective field theory; 14. Flux compactifications and moduli stabilization; 15. Moduli stabilization and supersymmetry breaking in string theory; 16. Further phenomenological properties. Strings and cosmology; 17. The space of string vacua; Appendices; Index.
£47.99
Cambridge University Press Introduction to High Energy Physics
Book SynopsisThis highly-regarded text provides a comprehensive introduction to modern particle physics. Extensively rewritten and updated, this 4th edition includes developments in elementary particle physics, as well as its connections with cosmology and astrophysics. As in previous editions, the balance between experiment and theory is continually emphasised. The stress is on the phenomenological approach and basic theoretical concepts rather than rigorous mathematical detail. Short descriptions are given of some of the key experiments in the field, and how they have influenced our thinking. Although most of the material is presented in the context of the Standard Model of quarks and leptons, the shortcomings of this model and new physics beyond its compass (such as supersymmetry, neutrino mass and oscillations, GUTs and superstrings) are also discussed. The text includes many problems and a detailed and annotated further reading list.Trade Review'This edition represents a major rewrite, not just a set of updates. Welcome additions are lengthy chapters on 'physics beyond the standard model' and 'particle physics and cosmology' … it is about as up to date as can be expected in such a rapidly advancing area æ what sets this book apart from its competitors is that the author has both a very good knowledge of theory and understands experimental techniques and limitations far better than most. His intuitive understanding of the subject matter is very evident. I would predict that another generation of teachers and students will welcome this revised text. It is without a peer at this level. I would certainly use it …'. Stuart Tovey, The PhysicistTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Quarks and leptons; 2. Interactions and fields; 3. Invariance principles and conservation laws; 4. Quarks in hadrons; 5. Lepton and quark scattering; 6. Quark interactions and QCD; 7. Weak interactions; 8. Electroweak interactions and the Standard Model; 9. Physics beyond the Standard Model; 10. Particle physics and cosmology; 11. Experimental methods; Appendices.
£67.44
Cambridge University Press An Introduction to Nuclear Physics
Book SynopsisThis wonderfully clear and concise nuclear physics textbook provides the basis for a core second/third year undergraduate physics module. A wide range of applications and aspects of nuclear physics are described, for example power generation from nuclear fission, nucleosynthesis, biological effects of nuclear radiation, solar neutrinos, neutrino physics.Trade Review'This clear and concise introduction to nuclear physics provide an excellent basis for a 'core' undergraduate course in this area.' Physics CourierTable of ContentsPreface to the second edition; Preface to the first edition; Constants of nature, conversion factors and notation; Glossary of some important symbols; 1. Prologue; 2. Leptons and the electromagnetic and weak interactions; 3. Nucleons and the strong interaction; 4. Nuclear sizes and nuclear masses; 5. Ground-state properties of nuclei: the shell model; 6. Alpha decay and spontaneous fission; 7. Excited states of nuclei; 8. Nuclear reactions; 9. Power from nuclear fission; 10. Nuclear fusion; 11. Nucleosynthesis in stars; 12. Beta decay and gamma decay; 13. Neutrinos; 14. The passage of energetic particles through matter; Appendix A. Cross-sections; Appendix B. Density of states; Appendix C. Angular momentum; Appendix D. Unstable states and resonances; Further reading; Answers to problems; Index.
£89.99
Cambridge University Press Thermal Field Theory
Book SynopsisThis text introduces the theoretical framework for describing the quark-gluon plasma, an important new state of matter. The first part is a self-contained introduction to the principles of relativistic thermal field theory. The second part details recent developments. Each chapter contains exercises and a guide to the literature.Trade Review"...I found this to be a book which deals very competently with the rather intricate and messy calculations that arise when it is necessary to deal with equilibrium states rather than simple excitations of the vacuum state..." C.A. Hurst, Mathematical ReviewsTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Introduction; 2. Quantum statistical mechanics; 3. The scalar field at finite temperature; 4. Simple applications of perturbation; 5. Dirac and gauge fields at finite temperature; 6. Collective excitations in a plasma; 7. Hard thermal loops and resummation; 8. Dynamical screening; 9. Neutrino emission from stars; 10. Infrared problems at finite temperature; Appendices; References.
£71.83
Cambridge University Press Supersymmetry in Disorder and Chaos
Book SynopsisThe development of the supersymmetry technique has led to significant advances in the study of disordered metals, modern mesoscopic quantum devices, localization in quantum wires and films, and quantum chaos. This book provides a comprehensive treatment of the ideas and uses of supersymmetry.Trade Review'Efetov has done a service to condensed matter physics by explaining the ins and outs of his method in a clear and comprehensive monograph. It is likely to become a classic in the field. The book is indispensible for researchers who use or who would like to use the supersymmetry technique … I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in modern techniques of theoretical physics.' C. W. J. Beenakker, Endeavour'… a clear, readable and comprehensive introduction to this application of supersymmetry.' I. D. Lawrie, Contemporary PhysicsTable of Contents1. Introduction; 2. Supermathematics; 3. Diffusion modes; 4. Nonlinear supermatrix σ- model; 5. Perturbation theory and renormalization group; 6. Energy level statistics; 7. Quantum size effects in small metal particles; 8. Persistent currents in mesoscopic rings; 9. Transport through mesoscopic devices; 10. Universal parametric correlations; 11. Localization in systems with one-dimensional geometry; 12. Anderson metal-insulator transition; 13. Disorder in two dimensions; 14. Afterword.
£63.13
Cambridge University Press The Quantum Theory of Fields Volume 1 Foundations
Book SynopsisAvailable for the first time in paperback, The Quantum Theory of Fields is a self-contained, comprehensive, and up-to-date introduction to quantum field theory from Nobel Laureate Steven Weinberg. Volume I introduces the foundations of quantum field theory.Trade Review'… an impressively lucid and thorough presentation of the subject … Weinberg manages to present difficult topics with richness of meaning and marvellous clarity. Full of valuable insights, his treatise is sure to become a classic, doing for quantum field theory what Dirac's Quantum Mechanics did for quantum mechanics. I eagerly await the publication of the second volume.' S. S. Schweber, Nature'For over twenty years there has been no good modern textbook on the subject. For all that time, Steven Weinberg has been promising to write one. That he has finally done it … is cause for celebration among those who try to teach and try to learn the subject.' Howard Georgi, Science'To summarize, Foundations builds the structure of quantum field theory on the sure footing of physical insight. It is beautifully produced and meticulously edited … and it is a real bargain in price. If you want to learn quantum field theory, or have already learned it and want to have a definitive reference at hand, purchase this book.' O. W. Greenberg, Physics Today'In addition to a superb treatment of all the conventional topics there are numerous sections covering areas that are not normally emphasized, such as the subject of field redefinitions, higher-rank tensor fields and an unusually clear and thorough treatment of infrared effects … this latest book reinforces his high scholarly standards. It provides a unique exposition that will prove invaluable both to new research students as well as to experienced research workers. Together with Volume 2, this will become a classic text on a subject of central importance to a wide area of theoretical physics.' M. B. Green, CERN Courier'I believe that what readers will find particularly helpful in this volume is the consistency of the whole approach, and the emphasis on quantities and properties that are directly useful to particle physicists. This is particularly true for those who are interested in the more phenomenological aspects. The reader only needs limited backround knowledge, and a clear line is followed throughout the book, making it easy to follow. The author presents extremely thorough but elementary discussions of important physical questions, some of which seem to be an original way of addressing the subject.' J. Zinn-Justin, Physics World'This is a well-written book by one of the masters of the subject … it is certainly destined to become a standard text book and should find its way to the shelves of every physics library.' J. Madore, Classical and Quantum Gravity'The book starts out with an excellent historical introduction, not found anywhere else, giving citations to many by now classic papers … a valuable reference work as well as a textbook for graduate students.' G. Roepstorff, Zentralblatt für MathematikTable of ContentsPreface; 1. Historical introduction; 2. Relativistic quantum mechanics; 3. Scattering theory; 4. The cluster decomposition principle; 5. Quantum fields and antiparticles; 6. The Feynman rules; 7. The canonical formalism; 8. Massless particles: electrodynamics; 9. Path integral methods; 10. Nonperturbative methods; 11. One-loop radiative corrections in quantum electrodynamics; 12. General renormalization theory; 13. Infrared effects; 14. Bound states in external fields; Subject index; Author index.
£47.99
Cambridge University Press High Energy Astrophysics
Book SynopsisThe third edition of this well-established textbook is ideal for advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate courses in high energy astrophysics. Now consolidated into a single-volume treatment, this textbook has been completely rewritten, providing a strong astronomical and astrophysical background for students to explore more advanced topics.Trade Review'The third edition of Malcolm Longair's High Energy Astrophysics is a remarkable gem. It is written in the clear, lucid style that characterizes Professor Longair's monographs and displays an admirable balance between breadth and depth. It is remarkably up to date and covers both high-energy phenomenology and physical processes with authority. It would serve equally well as a textbook for a graduate-level course or a reference work for the practising astrophysicist: a nicely written and sophisticated appendix on basic astronomy will make it equally useful for readers trained as physicists.' Bradley M. Peterson, Professor and Chair of Astronomy, Ohio State University'The remarkable revolution in our understanding of the Universe is covered brilliantly in this authoritative third edition of a classic text by Professor Longair - the prominent Cambridge astrophysicist and one of the subject's most experienced expositors. The text conveys the excitement of the progress being made in both observational and computational astronomy and ably describes the physical processes involved prior to educating the reader on a comprehensive list of frontier research topics ranging from dead stars in our Galaxy, black holes in galactic nuclei to the evolutionary history of galaxies seen at early cosmic times. The new edition is comprehensively illustrated and indexed with up-to-date references and an essential purchase for all physicists and astronomers.' Richard Ellis, Steele Professor of Astronomy, California Institute of Technology'This is a great book for students and researchers alike. It is up to date and covers the exciting new developments in high energy astrophysics. It will be on my shelf at arm's reach.' Neil Gehrels, Chief, Astroparticle Physics Laboratory, NASA/GSFC and College Park Professor of Astronomy, University of Maryland'The book is really a treasure for any student and teacher interested in astrophysics. It is very up to date and synoptically covers the whole field of high-energy astrophysics. I will use the book for my lectures as soon as I can!' Günther Hasinger, Scientific Director, Max-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik'… well-written and highly informative … stimulating and useful … beautifully written and authoritative … delivered with enthusiasm and offering the reader the chance to gain insight and understanding of a fascinating topic.' The Observatory'… a substantial textbook … likely to remain the standard on the subject for many years … comprehensive in its spread of subject matter and methodical in presentation.' Contemporary PhysicsTable of ContentsPart I. Astronomical Background: 1. High energy astrophysics - an introduction; 2. The stars and stellar evolution; 3. The galaxies; 4. Clusters of galaxies; Part II. Physical Processes: 5. Ionisation losses; 6. Radiation of accelerated charged particles and bremsstrahlung of electrons; 7. The dynamics of charged particles in magnetic fields; 8. Synchrotron radiation; 9. Interactions of high energy photons; 10. Nuclear interactions; 11. Aspects of plasma physics and magnetohydrodynamics; Part III. High Energy Astrophysics in our Galaxy: 12. Interstellar gas and magnetic fields; 13. Dead stars; 14. Accretion power in astrophysics; 15. Cosmic rays; 16. The origin of cosmic rays in our galaxy; 17. The acceleration of high energy particles; Part IV. Extragalactic High Energy Astrophysics: 18. Active galaxies; 19. Black holes in the nuclei of galaxies; 20. The vicinity of the black hole; 21. Extragalactic radio sources; 22. Compact extragalactic sources and superluminal motions; 23. Cosmological aspects of high energy astrophysics; Appendix; References; Index.
£69.99
Cambridge University Press Particle Dark Matter
Book SynopsisDark matter is among the most important open problems in modern physics. Aimed at graduate students and researchers, this book describes the theoretical and experimental aspects of the dark matter problem in particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology. Featuring contributions from 48 leading theorists and experimentalists, it presents many aspects, from astrophysical observations to particle physics candidates, and from the prospects for detection at colliders to direct and indirect searches. The book introduces observational evidence for dark matter along with a detailed discussion of the state-of-the-art of numerical simulations and alternative explanations in terms of modified gravity. It then moves on to the candidates arising from theories beyond the Standard Model of particle physics, and to the prospects for detection at accelerators. It concludes by looking at direct and indirect dark matter searches, and the prospects for detecting the particle nature of dark matter with astrophysical experiments. ? Describes the theoretical and experimental aspects of the dark matter problem ? Presents observations, theory and experiments to give a complete and consistent understanding of dark matter ? Features contributions from leading experts in the fieldTrade Review'… this book represents a text that any scholar whose research field is somewhat related to dark matter will find useful to have within easy reach … graduate students will find in this book an extremely useful guide into the vast and interdisciplinary field of dark matter …' Il Nuovo Saggiatore'… Particle Dark Matter is a very welcome addition. Virtually every aspect of modern dark-matter research is covered, with the wide authorship providing detailed but consistently readable contributions. … This is an excellent book, ideally suited to graduate students in the field and any others wishing to familiarize themselves with one of the most exciting and pressing challenges currently available in science. I can report that my colleagues, on seeing the book, have more often than not attempted to steal it away to lose themselves in its depths.' The Observatory'This book is an absolute necessity for anyone working in the field … contains a wealth of solid reliable material.' Contemporary PhysicsTable of ContentsPart I. DM in Cosmology: 1. Particle dark matter G. Bertone and J. Silk; 2. Simulations of CDM haloes B. Moore and J. Diemand; 3. MW substructures J. Bullock, M. Kaplinghat and L. Strigari; 4. Gravitational lensing and dark matter Y. Mellier; 5. Dark matter at the centers of galaxies D. Merritt; 6. Modified gravity as an alternative to DM J. Bekenstein; Part II. Candidates: 7. DM production mechanisms G. Gelmini and P. Gondolo; 8. Supersymmetric DM candidates J. Ellis and K. Olive; 9. DM at the EW scale: non-SUSY candidates G. Servant; 10. Non-WIMP candidates J. L. Feng; 11. Axions P. Sikivie; 12. Sterile neutrinos M. Shaposhnikov; Part III. Colliders Searches: 13. SUSY searches at the LHC T. Plehn and G. Polesello; 14. SUSY DM at colliders M. Battaglia and M. E. Peskin; 15. Extra dimensions at the LHC K. Kong, K. Matchev and G. Servant; 16. SUSY tools F. Boudjema, J. Edsjö and P. Gondolo; Part IV. Direct Detection: 17. Direct detection of WIMPs D. G. Cerdeño and A. Green; 18. Annual modulation with NaI(Tl) R. Bernabei and P. Belli; 19. Particle DM and DAMA N. Fornengo; 20. Cryogenic detectors G. Gerbier and J. Gascon; 21. Liquid noble gases E. Aprile and L. Baudis; 22. Directional detectors N. Spooner; 23. Axion searches S. Asztalos; Part V. Indirect Detection and Astrophysical Constraints: 24. Gamma-rays L. Bergström and G. Bertone; 25. Neutrinos F. Halzen and D. Hooper; 26. Antimatter P. Salati, F. Donato and N. Fornengo; 27. Multi-wavelength S. Profumo and P. Ullio; 28. Dark matter and BBN K. Jedamzik and M. Pospelov; 29. Dark matter and stars G. Bertone; Appendix; References; Index.
£161.50
Cambridge University Press Statistical Physics of Particles
Book SynopsisBased on lectures for a statistical mechanics course, this textbook introduces the central concepts and tools of statistical physics including solutions that are available to lecturers at www.cambridge.org/9780521873420. A companion volume, discusses non-mean field aspects of scaling and critical phenomena, through the perspective of renormalization group.Trade Review'In this much-needed modern text, Kardar presents a remarkably clear view of statistical mechanics as a whole, revealing the relationships between different parts of this diverse subject. In two volumes, the classical beginnings of thermodynamics are connected smoothly to a thoroughly modern view of fluctuation effects, stochastic dynamics, and renormalization and scaling theory. Students will appreciate the precision and clarity in which difficult concepts are presented in generality and by example. I particularly like the wealth of interesting and instructive problems inspired by diverse phenomena throughout physics (and beyond!), which illustrate the power and broad applicability of statistical mechanics.' Leon Balents, University of California, Santa Barbara'Statistical Physics of Particles is the welcome result of an innovative and popular graduate course Kardar has been teaching at MIT for almost twenty years. It is a masterful account of the essentials of a subject which played a vital role in the development of twentieth century physics, not only surviving, but enriching the development of quantum mechanics. Its importance to science in the future can only increase with the rise of subjects such as quantitative biology. Statistical Physics of Fields builds on the foundation laid by the Statistical Physics of Particles, with an account of the revolutionary developments of the past 35 years, many of which were facilitated by renormalization group ideas. Much of the subject matter is inspired by problems in condensed matter physics, with a number of pioneering contributions originally due to Kardar himself. This lucid exposition should be of particular interest to theorists with backgrounds in field theory and statistical mechanics.' David R. Nelson, Harvard University'If Landau and Lifshitz were to prepare a new edition of their classic Statistical Physics text they might produce a book not unlike this gem by Mehran Kardar. Indeed, Kardar is an extremely rare scientist, being both brilliant in formalism and an astoundingly careful and thorough teacher. He demonstrates both aspects of his range of talents in this pair of books, which belong on the bookshelf of every serious student of theoretical statistical physics. Kardar does a particularly thorough job of explaining the subtleties of theoretical topics too new to have been included even in Landau and Lifshitz most recent Third Edition (1980), such as directed paths in random media and the dynamics of growing surfaces, which are not in any text to my knowledge. He also provides careful discussion of topics that do appear in most modern texts on theoretical statistical physics, such as scaling and renormalization group.' H. Eugene Stanley, Boston University'This is one of the most valuable textbook I have seen in a long time. Written by a leader in the field, it provides a crystal clear, elegant and comprehensive coverage of the field of statistical physics. I'm sure this book will become 'the' reference for the next generation of researchers, students and practitioners in statistical physics. I wish I had this book when I was a student but I will have the privilege to rely on it for my teaching.' Alessandro Vespignani, Indiana UniversityTable of Contents1. Thermodynamics; 2. Probability; 3. Kinetic theory of gases; 4. Classical statistical mechanics; 5. Interacting particles; 6. Quantum statistical mechanics; 7. Ideal quantum gases; Solutions to selected problems; Index.
£52.24