Book Reccomendation? -- The Quantum World-Quantum Physics for Everyone

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the value of Kenneth W. Ford's book for understanding quantum physics concepts. Participants express concerns about the potential for misconceptions without a solid mathematical foundation. There is a consensus that while a popular-science book can provide a general idea of quantum theory, a deeper understanding requires mathematical knowledge. Recommendations for alternative books that balance accessibility and scientific rigor are shared, emphasizing that those less comfortable with math might still find value in more approachable texts. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of math in grasping the complexities of quantum theory while acknowledging the usefulness of popular science literature for general understanding.
timeuntotime
Messages
2
Reaction score
5
I was wondering if this book by Kenneth W. Ford is worth reading just to get a general idea of some of the concepts of Quantum Physics. Skimming it, it seems fairly understandable, I'm worried about forming misconceptions...If anyone has any insight, I'd really appreciate it!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Check, whether there's enough math in it. If not, save the money and buy a real textbook. It's impossible to understand quantum theory (imho even physics generally) without math. An excellent example with a minimum of math possible is

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0465062903/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
  • Like
Likes smodak and timeuntotime
It is one thing to understand quantum theory (which is what @vanhees71 is talking about) and another to get a general idea of some of the concepts of quantum theory (which is what @timeuntotime is talking about). If one is not good in math and/or is satisfied with achieving only the latter, then a popular-science book without math is not a bad idea.

I haven't seen the book by Ford above, but I can tell that there are good popular books on QM. For instance, I like
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0521278023/?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
  • Like
Likes timeuntotime
Thank you both for the suggestions!
 
i am self learning physics. have you ever worked your way backwards again after finishing most undergrad courses? i have textbooks for junior/senior physics courses in classical mechanics, electrodynamics, thermal physics, quantum mechanics, and mathematical methods for self learning. i have the Halliday Resnick sophomore book. working backwards, i checked out Conceptual Physics 11th edition by Hewitt and found this book very helpful. What i liked most was how stimulating the pictures...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
25
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K