Book details
A Guide to the Fundamental Particles: What the World Is Made of and What Holds It Together
Description
Albert Stwertka's 'A Guide to the Fundamental Particles' delves into the intricate world of particle physics, exploring the smallest known components of matter and the forces that bind the universe together. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental particles, including quarks, leptons, and bosons, and explains how these particles combine to form protons, neutrons, and electrons. It also examines the role of force-carrying particles like photons, gluons, W and Z bosons, and the elusive Higgs boson in mediating the fundamental forces of nature: electromagnetism, the strong and weak nuclear forces, and gravity. With clear explanations and up-to-date research, Stwertka makes complex concepts accessible to readers with an interest in the fundamental principles that govern the physical world.
Age
9-12
Text complexity
advanced
Length
160 pages
Why to read
- To gain a foundational understanding of the building blocks of the universe, learning about quarks, leptons, bosons, and other particles that form the basis of matter and forces.
- To appreciate the scientific advancements in particle physics, including the discovery of the Higgs boson and the ongoing research at facilities like the Large Hadron Collider.
- To develop a deeper insight into the fundamental forces that govern the interactions between particles, which are essential for understanding the complex phenomena within the cosmos.
- To enhance critical thinking and scientific literacy by exploring the concepts and experiments that have shaped our current knowledge of particle physics, which is crucial for anyone interested in science and technology.