A Short Introduction to Quantum Information and Quantum Computation [Hardcover]

Michel Le Bellac (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 17, 2006 | ISBN-10: 0521860563 | ISBN-13: 978-0521860567

Quantum information and computation is a rapidly expanding and cross-disciplinary subject. This book gives a self-contained introduction to the field for physicists, mathematicians and computer scientists who want to know more about this exciting subject. After a step-by-step introduction to the quantum bit (qubit) and its main properties, the author presents the necessary background in quantum mechanics. The core of the subject, quantum computation, is illustrated by a detailed treatment of three quantum algorithms: Deutsch, Grover and Shor. The final chapters are devoted to the physical implementation of quantum computers, including the most recent aspects, such as superconducting qubits and quantum dots, and to a short account of quantum information. Written at a level suitable for undergraduates in physical sciences, no previous knowledge of quantum mechanics is assumed, and only elementary notions of physics are required. The book includes many short exercises, with solutions available to instructors through [e-mail].

Editorial Reviews

Review

"A Short Introduction to Quantum Information and Quantum Computation is a laudable textbook by an author who has much experience writing about physics. It outperforms similar texts that contain more pages but fail to communicate the essence of the subject to anyone not working in the field."
Gregg Jaeger, Physics Today

"It is a self-contained presentationa of the main concepts of the field, not only aimed at physicists, but also at mathematicians and computer scientists at the graduate level."
Ellie D'Hondt, Mathematical Reviews

Book Description

This book provides an introduction to the subject of quantum information and computation. Aimed at physical science undergraduates, it journeys from quantum mechanics, through to quantum computation, before finishing with the implementation of quantum computers. The book supplies many short exercises to aid self study. Answers for instructors are available.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 178 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (July 17, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521860563
• ISBN-13: 978-0521860567
• Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 7 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #456,904 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Masterly Introduction to Quantum Computing, May 28, 2007

By 

W. James D. Easton (Bonita, CA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: A Short Introduction to Quantum Information and Quantum Computation (Hardcover)

Beautiful!

This book requires an elementary understanding of quantum mechanics, linear algebra and Hilbert Spaces.

However given that elementary understanding, it leads one gently, clear step by clear step, to understanding what the excitenment is all about.

This is teaching by a master teacher. Very little superfluous. Some treats like the brief and compelling derivation of the Schroedinger Equation from linearity and unitarity.

The exercises are an integral part of the presentation. Do not skip them. If you are understanding the material, each takes one or two minutes and adds to your comprehension and preparedness for what is to come. If you find yourself struggling, you need to pull out one of your old textbooks and review.

If you studied physics ever at a graduate level and want to know why quantum computing and cryptography are so important, this book will give you the key.

It is a gift. Enjoy and learn.