Description
Book SynopsisFrom the early wave-particle arguments to the mathematical theory of electromagnetism to Einstein's work on the quantization of light, different descriptions of what constitutes light have existed for over 300 years. Light The Physics of the Photon examines the photon phenomenon from several perspectives. It demonstrates the importance of studying the photon as a concept belonging to a global vacuum (matter-free space).
Divided into eight parts, the book begins with exploring aspects of classical optics in a global vacuum on the basis of free-space Maxwell equations. It then describes light rays and geodesics and presents a brief account of the Maxwell theory in general relativity. After discussing the theory of photon wave mechanics, the author gives a field-quantized description of the electromagnetic field, emphasizing single-photon quantum optics in Minkowskian space. He next focuses on photon physics in the rim zone of matter, paying particular at
Trade Review
"Everything you wanted to know about the modern photon by way of mathematical formalisms is available in [this book] … a delightful book for theoretically inclined advanced students and scientists specializing in optical science."
—American Journal of Physics, March 2015
"The material is presented in a clear structure and with full mathematical rigour."
—Contemporary Physics, 2014
"This important book will help readers accomplish the arduous task of understanding the photon, and provides deeper knowledge of the nature of light."
—Barry R. Masters, Optics & Photonics News, 2014
Table of ContentsClassical Optics in Global Vacuum. Light Rays and Geodesics. Maxwell Theory in General Relativity. Photon Wave Mechanics. Single-Photon Quantum Optics in Minkowskian Space. Photon Embryo States. Photon Source Domain and Propagators. Photon Vacuum and Quanta in Minkowskian Space. Two-Photon Entanglement in Space-Time. Bibliography. Index.
