Description
Book SynopsisThe counter-intuitive aspects of quantum physics have been long illustrated by thought experiments, from Einstein''s photon box to Schrödinger''s cat. These experiments have now become real, with single particles - electrons, atoms, or photons - directly unveiling the strange features of the quantum. State superpositions, entanglement and complementarity define a novel quantum logic which can be harnessed for information processing, raising great hopes for applications. This book describes a class of such thought experiments made real. Juggling with atoms and photons confined in cavities, ions or cold atoms in traps, is here an incentive to shed a new light on the basic concepts of quantum physics. Measurement processes and decoherence at the quantum-classical boundary are highlighted. This volume, which combines theory and experiments, will be of interest to students in quantum physics, teachers seeking illustrations for their lectures and new problem sets, researchers in quantum opti
Trade Review`A gem and a must-read for any student of quantum physics, from advanced undergraduate to expert.' Physics Today, August 2007
`This is a wonderfully well-informed book. The authors tackle a difficult subject with beautiful clarity, and elegance. It should be required reading for anyone who wishes to explore the quantum wonders of Nature.' A. Ekert, University of Cambridge
Table of Contents1. Unveiling the quantum ; 2. Strangeness and power of the quantum ; 3. Of spins and springs ; 4. The environment is watching ; 5. Photons in a box ; 6. Seeing light in subtle ways ; 7. Taming Schrodinger's cats ; 8. Atoms in a box ; 9. Entangling matter waves ; 10. Conclusion ; Appendix: Quantum states in phase space
