Gravity

Book Details

• Author: George Gamow

• Publisher: DOVER

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9781956861556

• Binding: Paperback

• Pages: 95

• Release Date: 17-12-2024

About the Book

Gravity by George Gamow offers an engaging and accessible exploration of the concept of gravity, tracing its fascinating evolution from ancient times to modern physics. Gamow takes readers on a journey through the history of this fundamental force, beginning with the groundbreaking work of Galileo Galilei. Galileo's experiments with inclined planes and pendulums laid the foundation for understanding the laws of motion and the acceleration of falling objects, helping to unlock the mysteries of gravity.

Building on Galileo's discoveries, Isaac Newton’s formulation of the Law of Universal Gravitation revolutionized our understanding of how gravity operates. This law explains the attraction between any two objects with mass, from microscopic particles to massive celestial bodies. Newton's theory helped explain the orbits of planets, tides, and the motion of comets, solidifying his place as one of the greatest scientists in history.

In the 20th century, Albert Einstein brought a new perspective with his theory of General Relativity. Einstein proposed that gravity is not a force but rather a curvature of spacetime, shaped by mass and energy. This theory not only deepened our understanding of gravity but also introduced revolutionary concepts that continue to influence modern physics, including black holes, gravitational waves, and the expanding universe.

Gravity offers a clear, concise, and informative overview of one of the most important concepts in science, making it a perfect read for anyone interested in the history and science of gravity.