Cracking Quantum Physics

By Brian Clegg

I’m very pleased with my new book Cracking Quantum Physics. It’s a chunky, beautifully produced, heavily illustrated little book, designed to give beginners an idea of what quantum physics is all about.

In over 300 pages, mostly in easily digestible two-page spreads, it covers everything from our first thoughts about the nature of matter through to possibilities for quantum gravity.

One thing I do need to address, as it has already caused John Gribbin to raise a sarcastic eyebrow is the sub-title ‘You, this book and 200 years of sub-atomic science.’

This book is part of a series of ‘Cracking’ books (Grommit) and they all have this kind of format in the subtitle, for which the author has no input.

I sort of get what the ‘you, this book and…’ bit means, even if it is a trifle cringe-making, but the part John was surprised about is ’200 years of sub-atomic science.’ What could this possibly refer to?

Arguably the first definitive sub-atomic science came in a number of discoveries that suggest bits could break off atoms or be particles that were less than atoms. These could include:

• Hittorf’s 1869 observation of cathode rays
• Bequerel’s 1896 discovery of radioactivity
• J. J. Thomson’s 1897 suggestion of the existence of the electron

Now Appearing is the blog of science writer Brian Clegg (www.brianclegg.net), author of Inflight Science, Before the Big Bang and The God Effect.