Dimensions
128 x 197 x 17mm
A New Understanding of Space, Time and the Universe.
Second Edition.
The Holy Grail of modern physics is the search for a theory of "quantum gravity". It is a search for a view of the Universe that unites two seemingly opposing pillars of modern science: Einstein's theory of general relativity, which deals with phenomena at the large scale (planets, solar systems and galaxies) and quantum theory which deals with the world of the very small (molecules, atoms, electrons). Cosmologist and science writer Lee Smolin provides the first concise and accessible overview of current attempts to reconcile these two theories in a final "theory of everything".
Although none of these approaches alone is likely to lead to the whole truth, Smolin believes that they all contain hints at what a final theory will look like. There are, he says, definite signs that science is beginning to converge on a theory of quantum gravity that will unite the fundamental forces of nature and ultimately explain the whole cosmos.
Written with exceptional elegance, simplicity and clarity, 'Three Roads To Quantum Gravity' provides a brief introduction for the general reader to modern concepts of space and time. It confronts some of the deepest questions about the nature of the Universe, such as whether space and time are continuous or infinitely divisible, and whether there is a limit to how small things can be. And, in doing so, it provides a preview of some of the remarkable scientific developments that we can look forward to in the twenty-first century.
