Light takes the reader on a journey through the myriad models of various aspects of light, including detailed mathematical and physical descriptions. It includes Maxwell’s theory, special and general relativity, quantum mechanics and modern quantum field theory, and is intended for readers familiar with these topics at the intermediate level. One must consider many viewpoints to understand what characterizes a photon, and Keller reminds us that we only observe the photon in its interaction with matter. He develops each new concept with a careful balance of mathematical description and the associated physical understanding. Where appropriate, he provides concise historical reviews of the prevailing theories and key experiments. This important book will help readers accomplish the arduous task of understanding the photon, and provides deeper knowledge of the nature of light. A selected bibliography and a detailed index are included.
Review by Barry R. Masters, Fellow of AAAS, OSA and SPIE.
The opinions expressed in the book review section are those of the reviewer and do not necessarily reflect those of OPN or OSA.