Foundations of Quantum Mechanics: From Photons to Quantum Computers

This textbook explores quantum information and quantum computing and is designed for third and fourth year undergraduate students. The first two chapters introduce photons and the quanta of light and their behavior in diffraction experiments. This is followed by a chapter focusing on Schrodinger's equation and other mathematical formulations and their connection to actual physical observables measured in the laboratory. From then on the focus is on the theory of measurement, the EPR paradox, and on technological applications such as cryptology, quantum factoring and ion-trap quantum computers. Includes substantial exercises at the end of each section of text. Annotation c2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)