Do It Yourself Quantum Physics – Exploring the History, Theory and Applications of Quantum Physics Through Hands–On Projects

Build an intuitive understanding of the principles behind quantum mechanics through practical construction and replication of original experiments

With easy-to-acquire, low-cost materials and basic knowledge of algebra and trigonometry, Exploring Quantum Physics through Hands-on Projects takes readers step by step through the process of re-creating scientific experiments that played an essential role in the creation and development of quantum mechanics.

Presented in near chronological order--from discoveries of the early twentieth century to new material on entanglement--this book includes question- and experiment-filled chapters on:
* Light as a Wave
* Light as Particles
* Atoms and Radioactivity
* The Principle of Quantum Physics
* Wave/Particle Duality
* The Uncertainty Principle
* Schrödinger (and his Zombie Cat)
* Entanglement

From simple measurements of Planck's constant to testing violations of Bell's inequalities using entangled photons, Exploring Quantum Physics through Hands-on Projects not only immerses readers in the process of quantum mechanics, it provides insight into the history of the field--how the theories and discoveries apply to our world not only today, but also tomorrow.

By immersing readers in groundbreaking experiments that can be performed at home, school, or in the lab, this first-ever, hands-on book successfully demystifies the world of quantum physics for all who seek to explore it--from science enthusiasts and undergrad physics students to practicing physicists and engineers.

The book guides the reader in the construction and use of setups to reproduce the key experiments that have brought us to our current understanding of the quantum world.  Importantly, all of the experimental equipment can be built out of relatively inexpensive materials that are readily available at the hardware store or from on-line vendors of electronic surplus. The book caters to a wide audience, ranging from science enthusiasts and undergraduate physics students, all the way through practicing physicists and engineers.   The math simple, and clear explanations and analogies are provided to make the book accessible.  The projects described range from simple measurements of Plancks constant all the way to testing violations of Bells inequalities using entangled photons. The project descriptions are targeted to an audience with basic experience in electronic prototype construction.  The circuits actually work, and the schematics are completely readable.  Lastly, our book is not only a practical guide, but is also ideal as a textbook for an undergraduate Quantum Physics lab course.  Every chapter includes a list of questions and lab experiments, and the accompanying Instructors Guide should facilitate its adoption as a lab textbook.

The book guides the reader in the construction and use of setups to reproduce the key experiments that have brought us to our current understanding of the quantum world.  Importantly, all of the experimental equipment can be built out of relatively inexpensive materials that are readily available at the hardware store or from on-line vendors of electronic surplus. The book caters to a wide audience, ranging from science enthusiasts and undergraduate physics students, all the way through practicing physicists and engineers.   The math simple, and clear explanations and analogies are provided to make the book accessible.  The projects described range from simple measurements of Plancks constant all the way to testing violations of Bells inequalities using entangled photons. The project descriptions are targeted to an audience with basic experience in electronic prototype construction.  The circuits actually work, and the schematics are completely readable.  Lastly, our book is not only a practical guide, but is also ideal as a textbook for an undergraduate Quantum Physics lab course.  Every chapter includes a list of questions and lab experiments, and the accompanying Instructors Guide should facilitate its adoption as a lab textbook.