Q is for Quantum: An Encyclopedia of Particle Physics

by John Gribbin

A comprehensive encyclopedia of quantum physics.

Here in one volume, the award-winning science writer and physicist John Gribbin has provided everything you need to know about the quantum world —the place where most of the greatest scientific advances of the last hundred years have been made.

This exceptional A to Z reference begins with a thorough introduction setting out the current state of knowledge in particle physics. Throughout, Gribbin includes articles on the structure of particles and their interactions, accounts of the theoretical breakthroughs in quantum mechanics and their practical applications, and entertaining biographies of the scientists who have blazed the trail of discovery. In a special section, "Timelines," key dates in our quest to understand the quantum world are mapped out alongside landmarks in world history and the history of science.

An encyclopedia of the fundamental science of the future, Q is for Quantum is an essential companion for anyone interested in particle physics.

"Astronomer Gribbin presents an overview of a hundred years of particle physics through a handy, accessible A-Z dictionary of definitions and identifications."
—Natural History

Genres: Science, Physics, Reference, Nonfiction

840 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1998

About the author

John R. Gribbin is a British science writer, an astrophysicist, and a visiting fellow in astronomy at the University of Sussex. His writings include quantum physics, human evolution, climate change, global warming, the origins of the universe, and biographies of famous scientists. He also writes science fiction.

Reviews

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I originally bought this book for university on somebody's recommendation. But it is so informative and so easy to read, that I carried it everywhere with me for quite some time. It was just fun to open it up somewhere and read a few pages, start to look up cross-references and come away with new knowledge on your bus ride home.

This has got to be my all-time favourite non-fiction book of all times.

[Tue Le · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is indeed an encyclopedia of a great variety of terms in particle physics, which can be a rather confounding subject. It is largely readable and engaging throughout, with the occasional defects. Gribbin's take on John von Neumann is a bit off, and his discussion of Simeon-Denis Poisson seems too abrupt.

[Alberto · Rating 5 out of 5]

BEST BOOK EVER READ

[Mauricio Cardona · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book full of information a fellow scientist will like to learn especialy if you know something and you would like to learn more about it. Electric Constant
F=k/P nice equation

[Awesomov · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not meant to be a be-all, tell-all, but is still extremely informative. For what it is and for its purpose, I can't help but recommend it to anyone attempting to understand quantum physics.