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Cosmic Numbers
The Numbers That Define Our Universe
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Cosmic Numbers
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See more"A brisk, fun ride...Stein is good at extracting drama from the brilliant minds and experiments that fill his book, and it's impossible to read it without gaping in awe"-Boston Globe
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
In Cosmic Numbers, mathematics professor James Stein traces the discovery, evolution, and interrelationships of the great numbers that define our world. Some numbers, like the speed of light and absolute zero, are well known to the general public. Others, such as Boltzmann's constant and the Chandrasekhar limit, are known only to those with a deep knowledge of science.
But these numbers do far more than the average person might dare to imagine: they tell us how this world began, the way we were and the way we are, and what the future holds. Stein reveals the manner in which certain cosmic numbers came to light, the dramatis personae involved, and cutting-edge developments associated with these numbers.
Many are the cornerstones of grand discoveries and theories. They represent landmarks in the history of intellectual achievement. And the stories of these numbers offer a novel understanding of physics, chemistry, and astronomy.
Much more than a gee-whiz collection, Cosmic Numbers illuminates why particular numbers are so important, both to scientists and to the rest of us.
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?
Cosmic Numbers by James Stein is praised for making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for general readers. It presents a fascinating exploration of important mathematical constants and their historical backgrounds, often enriched with entertaining anecdotes and scientific insights. Reviewers highlight Stein's ability to weave together stories of the scientists behind these numbers, making it both informative and enjoyable, while easing readers into understanding the fundamental structures of the universe.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780465063796
Publisher: Basic Books
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 28 May 2013
Country: United States
Imprint: Basic Books
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 16.0mm
Width: 141.0mm
Height: 208.0mm
Weight: 248g
Pages: 240
Collections
About the Author
James D. Stein is a past member of the Institute of Advanced Studies and is currently a Professor of Mathematics at California State University (Long Beach). His list of publications is extensive and includes: How to Shoot from the Hip Without Getting Shot in the Foot (with Herbert L. Stone and Charles V. Harlow) How Math Explains the World (a Scientific American Book Club selection) The Right Decision (also a Scientific American Book Club selection) and How Math Can Save Your Life. He has been a guest blogger for Psychology Today and his work has been featured in the Los Angeles Times.
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