From c-Numbers to q-Numbers: The Classical Analogy in the History of Quantum Theory explores the critical role of classical analogies in the development of quantum theory, examining how key figures such as Planck, Bohr, Heisenberg, and Dirac employed these analogies to bridge the gap between classical and quantum mechanics. At the heart of the book is the idea that quantum mechanics, while radically different from classical theories, still relies heavily on formal structures and mathematical procedures inherited from classical physics. By analyzing three major stages in quantum theory―Planck's radiation theory, Bohr's atomic theory, and Dirac's quantum mechanics―the book reveals how analogies with classical theories not only facilitated the formation of quantum ideas but also provided a framework that allowed quantum mechanics to evolve from classical roots.

The book identifies four distinct types of classical analogies: Planck's horizontal analogy, which merely extended classical methods; Bohr's vertical analogies, which involved more direct, though incomplete, translations of classical laws; Heisenberg's and Dirac's analogies, which mathematically aligned classical and quantum mechanics; and Dirac's use of relativistic strategies for theory-building. These analogies were essential in navigating the intellectual challenges of quantum mechanics, especially in the absence of complete theories. The study underscores the continuity between classical and quantum physics, illustrating how quantum theory, through its innovative use of mathematical formalisms, preserved the elegance of classical mechanics while embracing new, non-intuitive principles. This approach shows that the construction of quantum theory was deeply intertwined with classical precedents, allowing quantum mechanics to mature while maintaining connections to earlier frameworks of understanding.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1992.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

Save up to 90% on your favorite items at BargainBookStores.com! Our 20,000 square foot warehouse in Grand Rapids, Michigan is filled with hundreds of thousands of books and consumer goods, all at the lowest prices! We've been serving internet customers with great deals since 2001. All books ship from Grand Rapids, Michigan. 100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed We want to ensure your satisfaction. If you are dissatisfied with your purchase or shopping experience, we would like to hear from you. Please contact us by email: cs@bargainbookstores.com. Please be sure to include your contact information and order number. We do not charge a restocking fee for returns. Your Privacy BargainBookStores.com does not provide, sell or market customer information to other businesses or organizations.

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

BargainBookStores
3423 Lousma Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548, U.S.A.

Terms of Sale:

BargainBookStores guarantees 100% Customer Satisfaction. We ship worldwide and offer a variety of shipping methods to meet your needs. Please place your order directly via ABEBooks.com. We accept payment by MasterCard and Visa. For more information, contact us by email at cs@bargainbookstores.com. Full contact info is below:

BargainBookStores.com LLC
3423 Lousma Dr SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49548

Shipping Terms:

We will ship to all domestic and most international destinations.

Please note: Shipping times are estimated and are not guaranteed by BargainBookStores.

Payment Methods
accepted by seller