The Search for Infinity: Solving the Mysteries of the Universe

by Gordon Fraser and Egil Lillestol

Der Mensch hat seit jeher den Drang zu sehen, was sich jenseits des Horizonts befindet. Auf allen Seiten erreicht das Universum Ausmasse, die bis zu tausend Milliarden mal grosser oder kleiner sind... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0816032505
• ISBN13: 9780816032501
• Release Date: January 1995
• Publisher: Facts on File
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 2.35 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 9.4" x 11.3"

Customer Reviews

Inspiring and Thought Provoking

From quarks and dark matter to the LEP synchrotron, radiation and neutrinos, this is an excellent collection of some of the highlights of our search to understand the cosmos. This is a fine historical perspective beginning with Greek philosophy, early interpretations of the speed of light and electromagnetism and moving on through sub-atomic particles, proton decay, supercolliders and the Big Bang Theory. The authors also delve into the possible sources of cosmic rays, black holes, brown dwarves and how the remnants of stars often spawn new stars and planets. Great reference book for home, school or library.

Essential reading!

Reviews the major developments in science relating to the inner structure of the atom and quantum physics, and the efforts to understand the nature of the stars, galaxies and the universe. Easy to read and accompanied by clear diagrams and photographs, as well as comments on the scientists. Packed with information, making very complex ideas understandable. If you have any interest in what is happening on these frontiers of science, start with this book.

Excellent introduction to astrophysics

Astrophysics today is required to observe the infinitely small, in order to find answers for the big picture.In this view the book explores particle physics before plunging into astronomy. It retraces the history of discoveries, starting from the ancient greek concept of the atom, all the way to the latest theories and discoveries made through modern particle accelerators.The book does not propose answers; it limits itself to presenting the accepted theories, and does so with an everyday language. I would say the book is at such a level that anybody with high a school level of education will be able to understand it.I would criticize the fact that the authors don't make questions that invite the reader to be more curious about the universe. We know there are inconsistencies in the existing theories but this aspect is not explored. Too bad because I think astrophysics make a very fascinating research.

Very accessible and excellent graphics that support learning

This is an exceptional book because of the way the information is organized and for it's wonderful use of graphics.From quarks to Black Holes--it's all in there. I am not a nuclear physicist nor do I hold an MS--I am just interested in knowing more about subatomic particles and the gasses in the gallexies. That's why I love this book's approach which enabled me to absorb the new information and gain some understanding of the world of quantum mechanics. Gratefully, I can report that the authors have managed to make this material accessible and fun! I give extra cudos to whomever designed the book because it is a visual treat which begs to be read.

Great Coffee Table Book!

Each section begins with the understanding of the Greeks. Then traces the developement of understanding to present day, first the very small, then the very big. Every two pages cover a diferent era, filled with excerpts, photos, biographies, and can be read alone. Some of the expanations are better then any others I have seen, for instance Quarks. I enjoy reading it with my children. It is well written for both scientific, and non-scientificly minded readers. A good addition to anyones library.