Physics: Basic Concepts and Their Connections with Everything

Author: (USA) Hobson / Qin Kecheng et al
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-10-01
Features: Physics is the foundation of natural science. As citizens of modern society, individuals from non-physics disciplines also need to understand and learn physics. Why? To what extent should they understand it? This book provides the answers. Without using mathematical formulas, it clearly introduces the fundamental concepts and historical development of physics, especially the basic concepts of modern physics, such as the spacetime view of relativity, the measurement view of quantum mechanics, the inflationary theory of cosmic creation, and the grand unified model of fundamental particles. At the same time, it also discusses the connections between physics and various aspects of social life, particularly urgent social issues such as the contradiction between exponential population growth and resource scarcity, nuclear armament, energy crises, global warming, and ozone depletion. Originally intended for use as a liberal arts physics textbook in over 80 universities in the United States, the Chinese edition can serve as a physics textbook for liberal arts students in domestic universities, as well as for cadres and ordinary citizens who wish to expand their scientific knowledge and understand the spirit and methods of science. For professional physics workers, such as middle school physics teachers, students, and faculty at teacher training institutions or physics departments in comprehensive universities, this book is a highly valuable reference.