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The Physics Book

Pages
336
Published
2020
Language
English

Synopsis

Explore the laws and theories of physics in this accessible introduction to the forces that shape our Universe, our planet, and our everyday lives.Using a bold, graphic-led approach The Physics Book sets out more than 80 key concepts and discoveries that have defined the subject and influenced our technology since the beginning of time. With the focus firmly on unpicking the thought behind each theory - as well as exploring when and how each idea and breakthrough came about - seven themed chapters examine the history and developments in areas such as energy and matter, and electricity and magnetism, as well as quantum, nuclear, and particle physics. Eureka moments abound: from Pythagoras's observations of the pleasing harmonies created by vibrating strings, and Galileo's experiments with spheres, to Isaac Newton's apple and his conclusions about gravity and the laws of motion. You'll also learn about Albert Einstein's insights into relativity; how the accidental discovery of cosmic microwave background radiation confirmed the Big Bang theory; the search for the Higgs boson particle; and why most of our Universe is missing. If you've ever wondered exactly how physicists formulated - and proved - these abstract concepts, The Physics Book is the book for you.

About the author

D
DK Publishing

DK (formerly Dorling Kindersley) is a British multinational publisher of illustrated reference books for adults and children, founded in London in 1974 by Christopher Dorling and Peter Kindersley and originally operating as a book packager. Its list spans travel, history, geography, science, space, nature, sport, gardening, cookery and parenting, and it publishes in 63 languages. DK is part of Penguin Random House, wholly owned by Bertelsmann since December 2019, and produces licensed titles wit...

Frequently asked questions

  • Does this book require a background in science to understand?

    The content is structured to be accessible to both beginners and those with prior knowledge, as it focuses on the historical development and thought processes behind each theory rather than relying on complex mathematical proofs.

  • Is this book part of a larger collection?

    It is a volume within the Big Ideas Simply Explained series, which applies a consistent visual and editorial approach to various academic and historical subjects.

  • Who contributed to the introductory material of the book?

    The book features a foreword by Professor Jim Al-Khalili, a physicist and broadcaster known for his work in science communication.