Ranfagni Anedio Ranfagni – författare

This book presents selected topics about the path-integral method in Quantum Mechanics and Optics. Starting from an introduction to the grounds of functional integration theory, the main arguments of quantum and statistical mechanics, where the path-integral method works, are exposed. In particular, the partition function, the concept of instanton, tunneling and dissipative phenomena are analysed. The final section is devoted to selected and solved problems. This volume will be useful to beginners as well as more advanced students and researchers in the field.

The motion of a particle undergoing quantum tunneling has long been an open and debated problem in several aspects. One of the most discussed is the determination of the time spent in such processes, but many other features deserve consideration. In this volume, both theoretical and experimental aspects, such as quantum measurement, optical analogy, experimental tests, solid state devices and time scale for anomalies (quantum Zeno effect and superluminal evanescence), are explored.