The Charm of Strange Quarks: Mysteries and Revolutions of Particle Physics

by R. Michael Barnett, Henry Muehry, Helen R. Quinn

A primer on the evolution of particle physics and the search for the fundamental building blocks of matter, this book presents the full current body of understanding of particle physics in a way that is accessible to readers with some basic principles of physics. This concise book tells the fascinating story of how 20th century physicists revealed layer upon layer of structure within the atom to reach the basic particles of matter, and culminates in descriptions of current theories which form the Standard Model and the discovery of the top quark. It contains many illustrations and photographs, including the famous "Particle Chart", and integrates the stories of the individual scientists throughout. The book is a collaboration among eminent physicists at LBL, CERN and high school teachers to develop a novel book for teaching particle physics to students. It can thus be used as a supplement for courses in advanced high school and physics courses.

Genres: Science

327 pages, Hardcover

First published June 16, 2000

Reviews

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great (textbook-type) qualitative intro to particle physics. It lacks a central narrative drive, but gives very easy to understand qualitative descriptions of particle physics and the Standard Model. Very interesting, and easy to understand.

[bubbles (Albert)]

I just got an idea for a theory that explains how humans interact. But I need to figure out some math and physics to turn my idea into a testable theory.