Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around recommendations for optics books that are particularly useful for understanding concepts relevant to quantum computing. Participants share their experiences with various texts, focusing on the logical structure, mathematical rigor, and applicability of the materials to both classical and quantum optics.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant seeks recommendations for optics books that provide a logical structure and relevant derivations, expressing dissatisfaction with a previous course's textbook.
- Another participant suggests "Optics" by Hecht as a good introductory text, noting its focus on modern optics rather than physical optics.
- Some participants differentiate between types of optics needed, with one mentioning that Hecht is more focused on modern applications like lasers and fibers, while older texts like Jenkins and White or Pedrotti and Pedrotti cover more traditional physical optics.
- A participant mentions "Fundamentals of Photonics" by Saleh and Teich as a useful resource for ultrafast and nonlinear optics, indicating its relevance beyond basic optics.
- There is a discussion about the need for quantum optics texts, with recommendations for "Introduction to the Theory of Coherence and Polarization of Light" by Wolf, "Optical Coherence and Quantum Optics" by Mandel and Wolf, and "Quantum Electronics" by Yariv.
- One participant inquires about the depth and mathematical treatment of Mandel and Wolf's book, seeking a more advanced text that avoids excessive approximations.
- Another participant expresses a positive view of Mandel and Wolf's book, noting its detail and clarity after acclimatization to its presentation style.
- A later reply indicates satisfaction with Hecht's book, suggesting it meets the initial participant's needs.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a variety of opinions on the suitability of different optics texts, indicating that there is no consensus on a single best book. Some agree on the value of Hecht's book, while others highlight the need for more specialized texts in quantum optics.
Contextual Notes
Participants mention varying levels of mathematical rigor and focus on different aspects of optics, indicating that recommendations may depend on specific needs and prior knowledge. The discussion does not resolve which texts are definitively superior or more appropriate for quantum computing applications.