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On Gravity

A Brief Tour of a Weighty Subject
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( 197 ratings, 42 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
On Gravity offers a brief yet profound introduction to Einstein's general theory of relativity, exploring gravity as the most intimate yet least understood of the fundamental forces. Physicist Anthony Zee guides readers through the discovery of gravitational waves, the concept of curved spacetime, the action principle, and advanced topics such as black holes and Hawking radiation. The book also touches on the unresolved mysteries of quantum gravity, dark matter, and dark energy, providing a concise and insightful pathway to understanding the universe’s structure.
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Format: Hardback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

Ideal for readers with some prior knowledge of physics who are confident with moderate mathematical concepts, On Gravity suits those seeking a deeper understanding of relativity beyond popular science. Enthusiasts of astrophysics and cosmology will find Zee’s clear yet thorough presentation particularly rewarding.

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A brief introduction to gravity through Einstein's general theory of relativityOf the four fundamental forces of nature, gravity might be the least understood and yet the one with which we are most intimate. From the months each of us spent suspended in the womb anticipating birth to the moments when we wait for sleep to transport us to other r

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A brief introduction to gravity through Einstein's general theory of relativity. Of the four fundamental forces of nature, gravity might be the least understood and yet the one with which we are most intimate. From the months each of us spent suspended in the womb anticipating birth to the moments when we wait for sleep to transport us to other realities, we are always aware of gravity.

In On Gravity, physicist A. Zee combines profound depth with incisive accessibility to take us on an original and compelling tour of Einstein's general theory of relativity. Inspired by Einstein's audacious suggestion that spacetime could ripple, Zee begins with the stunning discovery of gravity waves. He goes on to explain how gravity can be understood in comparison to other classical field theories, presents the idea of curved spacetime and the action principle, and explores cutting-edge topics, including black holes and Hawking radiation.

Zee travels as far as the theory reaches, leaving us with tantalising hints of the utterly unknown, from the intransigence of quantum gravity to the mysteries of dark matter and energy. Concise and precise, and infused with Zee's signature warmth and freshness of style, On Gravity opens a unique pathway to comprehending relativity and gaining deep insight into gravity, spacetime, and the workings of the universe.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Praised as an outstanding academic title, On Gravity has been lauded for its depth and accessibility. John Gribbin of the Wall Street Journal recommends it for readers willing to engage with some equations, while Liz Else and Simon Ings of New Scientist highlight its journey from gravitational waves to cosmic mysteries. Mathemafrica calls it a perfect start for those eager to grasp cutting-edge scientific advances, appreciating its concise and timely delivery that reveals the profound beauty of Einstein’s theory.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780691174389

Publisher: Princeton University Press

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 24 April 2018

Country: United States

Imprint: Princeton University Press

Illustration: 26 b/w illus.

Audience: Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 200

About the Author

A. Zee is professor of physics at the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. His many books include Einstein Gravity in a Nutshell, Quantum Field Theory in a Nutshell, and Fearful Symmetry (all Princeton).

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