Quantum Information
Important concepts from the diverse fields of physics, mathematics, engineering and computer science coalesce in this foundational text on the cutting-edge field of quantum information. Designed for undergraduate and graduate students with any STEM background, and written by a highly experienced author team, this textbook draws on quantum mechanics, number theory, computer science technologies, and more, to delve deeply into learning about qubits, the building blocks of quantum information, and how they are used in quantum computing and quantum algorithms. The pedagogical structure of the chapters features exercises after each section as well as focus boxes, giving students the benefit of additional background and applications without losing sight of the big picture. Recommended further reading and answers to select exercises further support learning. Written in approachable and conversational prose, this text offers a comprehensive treatment of the exciting field of quantum information while remaining accessible to students and researchers within all STEM disciplines.
- Makes minimal assumptions about the background of the reader and provides access ramps for students of different STEM backgrounds through focus boxes
- Is fully up to date with the latest developments in a fast-moving field, exploring the physical systems that can be used as qubits and the quantum technologies that can be built with them
- Features nearly 300 unique exercises that are designed to build fluency in solving quantum information problems from scratch, including exercises from a wide range of topics such as linear algebra, number theory, and computer science
- Offers extensive learning support including a detailed glossary, suggestions for further reading, and solutions to selected problems
Reviews & endorsements
'Quantum Information by Al-Qasimi and James is an important and stimulating addition to the literature on learning and teaching quantum information science. Students and instructors at many levels of background and mathematical sophistication can benefit greatly from its study … Rather than being a compendium of formulas, the book lays out the underlying concepts and mathematical techniques in a refined tutorial manner, written in the voices of two outstanding educators and quantum researchers who sincerely want their readers to understand, not just absorb, the material.' Michael Raymer, University of Oregon
'Quantum Information: A First Course is a delight. Al-Qasimi and James have written a masterful and accessible text that seamlessly blends mathematical, physical, and occasional literary exposition. It deftly leads the reader from introductory mathematics through quantum physics and algorithms, to a sophisticated and nuanced understanding of quantum computation.' Andrew White, University of Queensland
'This concise yet comprehensive textbook is an invaluable resource for students and scholars of quantum information. Its well-structured exercises cover key physical, mathematical, and algorithmic aspects, providing a thorough foundation in quantum information processing. Engaging with these exercises ensures a deep and structured understanding of the field, making this book an essential companion for study and research.' Rainer Blatt, University of Innsbruck
'Al-Qasimi and James's excellent new text fills a big hole in the literature of quantum computing education. There is at present no really good book at the sophomore or junior college level. This one does all the right things: the level of presentation is perfect, it fills possible student knowledge gaps, it strikes the tricky balance between accessibility and rigor. The hardest part of writing a textbook is coming up with great problems and they do that. They combine these virtues with grace of exposition and a sense of humour. You have the right book for your course.' Robert Joynt, University of Wisconsin
'This textbook by Al-Qasimi and James on Quantum Information is a gem. It smoothly paves the way with the necessary background knowledge of physics and mathematics smoothly, as well as appropriate doses of historical backgrounds and interesting facts. The pace is just right: by Chapter 5, the readers will have learned key subjects, such as quantum entanglement, teleportation, Bell's inequality, basic quantum algorithms, and, specifically, the famous Shor's factoring and Grover's search algorithms. I especially enjoy reading the chapters on realizations of qubits, the physics behind two-qubit gates, and device characterization. This book is not only an excellent textbook for students but also a refreshing reference for researchers.' Tzu-Chieh Wei, Stony Brook University
'Quantum Information by Al-Qasimi and James not only provides a clear and deep understanding of its source material, but also manages to remain an entertaining and enjoyable read throughout.' Greg Gbur, University of North Carolina
'The field of quantum Information has led to many fascinating applications and has also improved our foundational understanding of quantum physics. This accessible book by Al-Qasimi and James complements more traditional introductions to quantum information and computation, offering clarity and intuition and explaining the great importance of the subject to modern research.' Almut Beige, University of Leeds
Product details
June 2025Hardback
9781009514729
315 pages
254 × 203 mm
Not yet published - available from June 2025
Table of Contents
- Preface
- 1. Welcome to quantum computing
- 2. Quantum mechanics for quantum computers
- 3. Two qubits and entanglement
- 4. Quantum algorithms
- 5. Period finding and Shor's algorithm
- 6. Realizations of qubits: general discussion
- 7. Realizations of qubits: examples
- 8. The physics of two-qubit gates
- 9. Device characterization
- 10. Variations on the DiVincenzo criteria
- 11. Decoherence and how to defeat it
- 12. Quantum technologies
- Afterword
- Solutions to select exercises
- Appendices
- Glossary
- Suggestions for further reading
- Index.