This book explains such complicated concepts as the relationship between electricity and magnetism; how what we think we see or feel as solids, liquids, and gases, are made of almost infinitely small particles moving at tremendous speeds; how all life itself is made up of a genetic code. Most importantly, it speaks of the precious interrelationship of all life on earth and our responsibility to preserve it.
The authors of this book have an uncanny ability to take the most complicated concepts, explain them in simple, but realistic terms — often with diagrams. I found the section titled “Particle Zoo” rather comical. They say, “There are so many kinds of elementary particles that sometimes it’s hard to tell the players without a scorecard.”
When one considers the size of some of these particles, it appears they are, for the most part, whiffs of energy moving about in vast quantities of subatomic space. The conclusion can be drawn that what I typically assume is my desk (a solid), or my Diet Coke (a liquid), or the air in my room (a gas), is nothing more than empty space.
I would highly recommend Science Matters, to everyone who loves to learn — who seeks to know. It is extremely easy to read and will make your feel comfortable about topics you’ve avoided when enjoined in conversation. You will not be an expert, but you can appear up-to-date and knowledgeable.
I would suggest that educators use Science Matters as a backup book for many formal classroom physics or chemistry textbooks. You will surely find its explanations, definitions, and diagrams helpful.
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