Constructing quantum mechanics. Volume 1, The Scaffold: 1900-1923. / Anthony Duncan, Michel Janssen.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Duncan, Anthony, author.

Janssen, Michel, author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Quantum theory.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (512 pages)

Place of Publication:

Oxford, England : Oxford University Press, [2019]

Summary:

Constructing Quantum Mechanics is the first of two volumes on the genesis of quantum mechanics. It covers the key developments in the period 1900-1923, which provided the scaffold on which the arch of modern quantum mechanics was built. This volume traces the early contributions by Planck, Einstein, and Bohr to the theories of black-body radiation, specific heats, and spectroscopy, all showing the need for drastic changes to the physics of their day. It examines the efforts by Sommerfeld and others to provide a new theory, now known as the old quantum theory. After some striking initial successes (explaining the fine structure of hydrogen, X-ray spectra, and the Stark effect), the old quantum theory ran into serious difficulties (failing to provide consistent models for helium and the Zeeman effect) and eventually gave way to matrix and wave mechanics. The book breaks new ground, both in its treatment of the work of Sommerfeld and his associates, and also in its offering of new perspectives on classic papers by Planck, Einstein, and Bohr. Throughout this volume, the authors provide detailed reconstructions of the central arguments and derivations of the physicists involved, allowing for a full and thorough understanding of the key principles.

Contents:

volume one. The scaffold: 1900-1923.

Notes:

Description based on print version record.

ISBN:

0-19-188068-X

0-19-258422-7