The Theory of Almost Everything: The Standard Model, the Unsung Triumph of Modern Physics

Science News, Sept 10, 2005

THE THEORY OF ALMOST EVERYTHING: The Standard Model, the Unsung Triumph of Modern Physics ROBERT OERTER

In the world of physics, the sexiest topic is the high-stakes search for a theory to tie together all modern physical theories and explain the universe, Physicist Oerter writes that in comparison, a theory that already explains much about how the universe works gets little attention. He refers to the Standard Model, "the theory of almost everything" except gravity. In this accessible and engaging book, the author provides an overview of what physicists have established through centuries of theorizing and experimenting, Topics include the discovery of the connection between electricity and magnetism, Einstein's theory of special relativity, and the paradigm-shifting development of quantum physics. The next big step, the discovery of the Higgs boson and its role in gravity, may be just around the corner, Oerter writes. This book is for anyone interested in modern physics and ultimate answers about the universe. Pi Press, 2005, 336 p., b&w illus., hardcover, $24.95.