Men Who Made a New Physics: Physicists and the Quantum Theory

by Barbara Lovett Cline

Book Overview

Cline recounts the development of quantum theory, capturing the atmosphere of argument and discovery among physicists in the 1920s. She explores the backgrounds of the major figures--Rutherford, Bohr, Planck, Einstein--separately, but draws them together as they begin to consider each other's questions about the nature of matter.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0226110273
• ISBN13: 9780226110271
• Release Date: June 1987
• Publisher: University of Chicago Press
• Length: 288 Pages
• Weight: 1.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.1" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

The development of the Quantum Theory and its contrast to relativity are explored.

This book outlines the personalities of the major figures of physics, Rutherford, Bohr, Plank, Einstein, Schrodinger, Dirac, Born, etc. while explaining the development of quantum theory. The book also talks about relativity and compares it to quantum theory; that is, it compares the thought processes of the creators of both theories. To quote the book, 'in one important sense relativity theory is not a radical departure from traditional scientific thought. It does not challenge determinsim, the burning question, Erwin Schrodinger called it.' Quantum theory does challenge determinism; that is, in quantum theory, one cannot obtain exact information, and as a consequence, make exact predictions. This is due to the uncertainty principle of Heinsenberg. Einstein did not like this, and the book in the end details the conversations between Einstein and Bohr at the Solvay conference and beyond.

Excellent; Brings the characters to life!

The authors have done a great job with this book. Apart from explaining some of the Physical principles in "lay speak", they have also succeeded in conveying a deep sense of the human characters involved. The triumphs, the tribulations, the friendships and the intellectual rivalries - they are all here!A delightful read - highly recommended to ALL with an interest in Science and DEFINATELY for those who wish to pursue the study of Physics.

Wonderful book

For an exiting layman's visit to the physics of the 20th century and an intimate biography of the men who created the new physics this book is easily the first on my lis