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Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible
An exceptionally accessible introduction to quantum field theory
Quantum field theory is by far the most spectacularly successful theory in physics, but also one of the most mystifying. Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible provides an essential primer on the subject, giving readers the conceptual foundations they need to wrap their heads around one of the most important yet baffling subjects in physics.
Quantum field theory grew out of quantum mechanics in the late 1930s and was developed by a generation of brilliant young theorists, including Julian Schwinger and Richard Feynman. Their predictions were experimentally verified to an astounding accuracy unmatched by the rest of physics. Quantum field theory unifies quantum mechanics and special relativity, thus providing the framework for understanding the quantum mysteries of the subatomic world. With his trademark blend of wit and physical insight, A. Zee guides readers from the classical notion of the field to the modern frontiers of quantum field theory, covering a host of topics along the way, including antimatter, Feynman diagrams, virtual particles, the path integral, quantum chromodynamics, electroweak unification, grand unification, and quantum gravity.
A unique and valuable introduction for students and general readers alike, Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible explains how quantum field theory informs our understanding of the universe, and how it can shed light on some of the deepest mysteries of physics.
Quantum field theory is by far the most spectacularly successful theory in physics, but also one of the most mystifying. Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible provides an essential primer on the subject, giving readers the conceptual foundations they need to wrap their heads around one of the most important yet baffling subjects in physics.
Quantum field theory grew out of quantum mechanics in the late 1930s and was developed by a generation of brilliant young theorists, including Julian Schwinger and Richard Feynman. Their predictions were experimentally verified to an astounding accuracy unmatched by the rest of physics. Quantum field theory unifies quantum mechanics and special relativity, thus providing the framework for understanding the quantum mysteries of the subatomic world. With his trademark blend of wit and physical insight, A. Zee guides readers from the classical notion of the field to the modern frontiers of quantum field theory, covering a host of topics along the way, including antimatter, Feynman diagrams, virtual particles, the path integral, quantum chromodynamics, electroweak unification, grand unification, and quantum gravity.
A unique and valuable introduction for students and general readers alike, Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible explains how quantum field theory informs our understanding of the universe, and how it can shed light on some of the deepest mysteries of physics.
- GenresPhysicsScienceNonfiction
Kindle Edition
Published January 17, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 21, 2023
I'm a big sucker for anything cosmology or quantum, so when the cover of this book surfaced on my Twitter feed, I had to look it up. It promised to be a good balance between a pop-science book and a textbook. I was intrigued.
All I can say is that it's great. The writing style is fun, not dry. There are some formulas, but they're more for illustrative purposes.
What I liked about this book was the fact that it helped me build some simple mental models of what a quantum field is. How particles emerge from it. The author takes effort to link your school physics knowledge and use that to build out what's needed to comprehend and appreciate QFT.
Some other things I learned:
* That E=mc^2 is a simplified formula. The 'real' version is E=m^2 + p^2. Can't wait for this come up in a pub quiz.
* What does it mean when physicists say "unified theory." How electromagnetic, weak and strong interactions work and how they were unified. Also, where the formulas break down when trying to add gravity to a grand unified theory.
* How Feynman diagrams work and how they translate to formulas.
* That quantum black holes have little or nothing to do with cosmological black holes.
* And much more I can't recall now.
The author also provides ample amount of end notes, and extensive bibliography, for further investigation, if you're so inclined.
Not sure I will apply this knowledge anywhere, but it tickled my curiosity and it was an enjoyable read. Win!
All I can say is that it's great. The writing style is fun, not dry. There are some formulas, but they're more for illustrative purposes.
What I liked about this book was the fact that it helped me build some simple mental models of what a quantum field is. How particles emerge from it. The author takes effort to link your school physics knowledge and use that to build out what's needed to comprehend and appreciate QFT.
Some other things I learned:
* That E=mc^2 is a simplified formula. The 'real' version is E=m^2 + p^2. Can't wait for this come up in a pub quiz.
* What does it mean when physicists say "unified theory." How electromagnetic, weak and strong interactions work and how they were unified. Also, where the formulas break down when trying to add gravity to a grand unified theory.
* How Feynman diagrams work and how they translate to formulas.
* That quantum black holes have little or nothing to do with cosmological black holes.
* And much more I can't recall now.
The author also provides ample amount of end notes, and extensive bibliography, for further investigation, if you're so inclined.
Not sure I will apply this knowledge anywhere, but it tickled my curiosity and it was an enjoyable read. Win!
February 27, 2023
Excellent book! Fills the (large) gap between popular science books and text books, which was greatly needed in the area of quantum field theory. Written in an entertaining style that is neither dumbed down nor condescending, yet does not drown the reader in vague physics terms or unnecessary mathematics. Zee does not sacrifice details, but he never loses sight of the big picture. After reading this book, I feel I am ready to try Zee’s QFT Nut textbook!
July 17, 2023
Zee's laudable goal is to explain Quantum Field Theory to the lay public as "simply as possible". This calls to mind the words of Einstein which are often paraphrased as "Explanations should be as simple as possible, but no simpler." After reading the book my verdict is that Zee oversimplified QFT. Zee, like many theorists, is a fan of the path integral approach to QFT. The cornerstone of that approach is the Lagrangian density which is the expression that famously appears on T-shirts that claim to show all the laws of physics. The path integral is an extremely complex mathematical object, possibly not even well-defined for interacting fields. In practice, physicists resort to perturbation theory and renormalization when they need to make quantitative predictions. Sadly, Zee does not shed much light on the renormalization process. In the final section of the book, Zee effectively admits that he has oversimplified and strongly encourages the reader who wants a deeper understanding to read his textbook "Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell". My copy has been gathering dust on my bookshelf for years. I'm now motivated to take another crack at it. In conclusion, the book is certainly worth reading, but don't expect to come away with anything more than a very cursory understanding of this very complex branch of theoretical physics.
December 17, 2023
Could use a better copy editor; lots of grammatical errors detract from the story.
Zee seems completely sold on the idea that the three non-gravitational forces have already been unified.
p. 130: "Even more importantly for the evolution of the universe a few minutes after the Big Bang, the electrons and the protons found each other to form neutral hydrogen atoms, thus making the universe (to first approximation) transparent to photons ..."
No, recombination occurred 378,000 years after the Big Bang, not a few minutes.
Zee seems completely sold on the idea that the three non-gravitational forces have already been unified.
p. 130: "Even more importantly for the evolution of the universe a few minutes after the Big Bang, the electrons and the protons found each other to form neutral hydrogen atoms, thus making the universe (to first approximation) transparent to photons ..."
No, recombination occurred 378,000 years after the Big Bang, not a few minutes.
July 3, 2023
I am truly grateful for "Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible" by A. Zee. This exceptional book has left an indelible mark on my exploration of Quantum Mechanics.
What sets this book apart from popular science books on physics is its refreshing and captivating approach. Unlike others, it engages readers with its informative style, making complex concepts accessible and intriguing. As an individual with a background in electrical engineering and a strong mathematical foundation, I've struggled to find textbooks that cater to my thirst for a deeper understanding of the subject outside of formal courses. Thankfully, this book fills that void splendidly.
"Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible" has proven to be a valuable stepping stone in my journey. Its entertaining yet educational style has propelled my understanding of intricate concepts in Quantum Field Theory. With such a fulfilling experience, I eagerly anticipate reading the author's other works, such as the QFT Nut or G Nut, hoping they maintain the same engaging approach that made this book exceptional.
In conclusion, I want to express my deepest appreciation and gratitude for "Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible." A. Zee's book breathes new life into the realm of non-textbook physics literature. It is a unique and transformative reading experience that caters to individuals like myself, who seek to delve deeper into the subject matter. If you are passionate about Quantum Field Theory and desire an engaging journey, I wholeheartedly recommend this outstanding book.
What sets this book apart from popular science books on physics is its refreshing and captivating approach. Unlike others, it engages readers with its informative style, making complex concepts accessible and intriguing. As an individual with a background in electrical engineering and a strong mathematical foundation, I've struggled to find textbooks that cater to my thirst for a deeper understanding of the subject outside of formal courses. Thankfully, this book fills that void splendidly.
"Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible" has proven to be a valuable stepping stone in my journey. Its entertaining yet educational style has propelled my understanding of intricate concepts in Quantum Field Theory. With such a fulfilling experience, I eagerly anticipate reading the author's other works, such as the QFT Nut or G Nut, hoping they maintain the same engaging approach that made this book exceptional.
In conclusion, I want to express my deepest appreciation and gratitude for "Quantum Field Theory, as Simply as Possible." A. Zee's book breathes new life into the realm of non-textbook physics literature. It is a unique and transformative reading experience that caters to individuals like myself, who seek to delve deeper into the subject matter. If you are passionate about Quantum Field Theory and desire an engaging journey, I wholeheartedly recommend this outstanding book.
May 3, 2024
Zee's "Simply" book is an excellent introduction to the conceptual basis of QFT and the new knowledge and understanding about fundamental natural law it has provided. Although I long ago took courses in quantum field theory, I still find that textbooks on this subject become bogged down with sophisticated mathematics to the extent that they somewhat obscure the underlying physics. Even though this book was over-simplified for a physicist, I chose to read it purely for the pleasure of having all the physical phenomena related to QFT laid out clearly with a minimum of mathematical distraction. Professor Zee is clearly a current expert in the field and this book is very authoritative and up-to-date. It's a good read for any physicist.
December 3, 2023
Great popular introduction to actual QFT. I hope I will have better chances with actual textbooks now.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews