Quanta and Fields

The Biggest Ideas in the Universe

Quanta and Fields, the second book of Sean Carroll’s already internationally acclaimed series The Biggest Ideas in the Universe, is an adventure into the bare stuff of reality.

Sean Carroll is creating a profoundly new approach to sharing physics with a broad audience, one that goes beyond analogies to show how physicists really think. He cuts to the bare mathematical essence of our most profound theories, explaining every step in a uniquely accessible way.

Quantum field theory is how modern physics describes nature at its most profound level. Starting with the basics of quantum mechanics itself, Sean Carroll explains measurement and entanglement before explaining how the world is really made of fields. You will finally understand why matter is solid, why there is antimatter, where the sizes of atoms come from, and why the predictions of quantum field theory are so spectacularly successful. Fundamental ideas like spin, symmetry, Feynman diagrams, and the Higgs mechanism are explained for real, not just through amusing stories. Beyond Newton, beyond Einstein, and all the intuitive notions that have guided homo sapiens for millennia, this book is a journey to a once unimaginable truth about what our universe is.


* This audiobook edition includes a downloadable PDF of graphs, equations, and images.

Reseñas de la Crítica

Praise for Quanta and Fields:

“Readers will be electrified by his discussion of wave functions, entanglement, fields, and so much more. From the most infinitesimal of subatomic particles to the seemingly vast infinities of the universe’s great expanse, Carroll’s latest inquiry illuminates, well, everything.” —Booklist

"In that void between hand-wavy popular science and academic textbook, this modern, informative and engaging account of quantum physics ticks all the boxes. Carroll the Explainer at his very best." —Jim Al-Khalili

Don’t buy it in audio format. It might be better in a book format.

I’m NOT IMPRESSED. I didn’t learn anything from the audio book. It may be a great book in print form.

Most up to date Physics text

Sean Carroll's 'Quanta' is a masterful exploration of the fundamental nature of reality, a theme that Carroll has pursued with relentless curiosity and scholarly rigor throughout his career. In this latest offering, Carroll continues to challenge and refine his ideas, integrating the newest scientific discoveries with the profound questions that have long intrigued both physicists and philosophers. The book delves into the complexities of quantum mechanics and the ongoing debates surrounding it, making these intricate topics accessible and engaging. Carroll's ability to translate complex scientific principles into understandable concepts is unparalleled, making 'Quanta' a must-read for anyone fascinated by how the universe works at its most fundamental levels. This book is a testament to Carroll's commitment to exploring deep truths and his ever-evolving understanding of the cosmos.

Great but difficult!

This is the perfect compromise if you're tired of popular "science", but not ready for the full math! Great read and an amazing topic!

Too burdened with math

These lectures were ok, but they had a lot of math for an audio book. That made it hard to follow.

Not ideal for audio

This book is well done and well read. The subject matter, however, relies heavily on charts and figures which do not translate well to an audio only format.