Cambridge International A Level Physics

Recommended resources
Chapter 30
Further reading
There are many accessible books available that tackle the fundamentals of quantum physics in a
non-mathematical way. Here is a short selection.
Hey, T. and Walters, P. (2003) The New Quantum Universe, 2nd edn. Cambridge University Press.
The first part deals with wave–particle duality and the evidence from experiments; the book goes on
to explore de Broglie’s matter waves and energy levels. Much of the book goes well beyond A level
concepts, but is an informative and accessible primer for studies beyond A level.
Al-Khalili, J. (2012) Quantum: A Guide for the Perplexed. Phoenix.
A very wordy but friendly introduction to some of the key historical theories and experiments that
led to the development of quantum theory. Particularly useful explanations of the double‑slit
experiment and Einstein’s explanation of the photoelectric effect. Takes in several more
advanced concepts.
Flynn, S. (2013) The Science Magpie. Icon Books.
An entertaining read comprising numerous short science stories; pages 142–145, ‘The birth of the
quantum’, explains a little of the history behind Planck’s equation.

Online and interactive resources

www.cyberphysics.co.uk/topics/atomic/Photoelectric%20effect/Photoelectric%20effect.htm
Detailed but accessible explanation of the photoelectric effect, with a number of videos included.
www.osram.co.uk/osram_uk/news-and-knowledge/led-home/professional-knowledge/led-basics/
index.jsp
Information about LEDs, including how they work, the colours of light they produce, how they were
developed and some of their uses.

Video
www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbFehcC4MHc
Clear explanation of the origins of line emission and absorption spectra. Uses as its starting point the
concept of a black body emitting radiation, but quickly moves on to spectral lines observed in the
light of the Sun, and spectra more generally.
www.nationalstemcentre.org.uk/elibrary/resource/2015/electron-diffraction-tube
Very clear description of the electron diffraction tube and a demonstration of it in use.

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