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

AI Thread 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!
 
For the following four books, has anyone used them in a course or for self study? Compiler Construction Principles and Practice 1st Edition by Kenneth C Louden Programming Languages Principles and Practices 3rd Edition by Kenneth C Louden, and Kenneth A Lambert Programming Languages 2nd Edition by Allen B Tucker, Robert E Noonan Concepts of Programming Languages 9th Edition by Robert W Sebesta If yes to either, can you share your opinions about your personal experience using them. I...
This is part 2 of my thread Collection of Free Online Math Books and Lecture Notes Here, we will consider physics and mathematical methods for physics resources. Now, this is a work in progress. Please feel free comment regarding items you want to be included, or if a link is broken etc. Note: I will not post links to other collections, each link will point you to a single item. :book:📚📒 [FONT=trebuchet ms]Introductory college/university physics College Physics, Openstax...

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
5K
Replies
10
Views
629
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
5K
Replies
13
Views
5K
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
17
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
Back
Top