Product Description

This book is a simple, non-technical introduction to cosmology, explaining what it is and what cosmologists do. Peter Coles discusses the history of the subject, the development of the Big Bang theory, and more speculative modern issues like quantum cosmology, superstrings, and dark matter.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #16839 in Books
• Published on: 2001-08-23
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 152 pages

New Scientist, September 29, 2001
a pleasure to read

From the Back Cover
Cosmology: The Origin and Evolution of Cosmic Structures, Second Edition, is a modern introduction to this fascinating and fast developing subject. The book provides a unique bridge between introductory and advanced material, starting with the elementary foundations of basic cosmological theory, to 'state-of-the-art' frontier research. Extensively revised and updated, the Second Edition includes the latest observational and theoretical developments. The book is fully illustrated throughout with completely updated references.

Features:

*Recent observational breakthroughs including high redshift supernovae, CMB measurements, gravitational lensing and galaxy studies.

*The latest theoretical developments, such as supercomputer simulations and semi-analytical galaxy formation

*Around 100 graded problems, ranging from basic cosmology to advanced topics.

This book will be invaluable to advanced undergraduates and postgraduates taking cosmology courses and will also be a useful reference for researchers in the field.

About the Author
Peter Coles is Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Nottingham. He has co-written two textbooks on cosmology, and over a hundred technical articles on various aspects of the Big Bang theory. He is also author of Einstein and the Total Eclipse, and Hawking and the Mind of God.

Customer Reviews

A balanced view of cosmology
This is a truly excellent introduction to cosmology for specialist and non-specialist alike. It is non-mathematical and so may be read by anyone, but the overall cover is so good, in my opinion, that it would prove an ideal first read for both undergraduates and postgraduates. All the main topics are covered; the big problems facing us are all highlighted, but what makes this book stand out is the total lack of arrogance displayed by the author. When dealing with something which is not established fact, he gives his opinion but makes it absolutely clear that it is just that - his opinion! This is in marked contrast to the attitude displayed in most texts and is certainly contrary to the policy adopted by some popular scientific journals, which seem to establish a sort of 'perceived conventional wisdom' and refuse to publish anything which disagrees with that so-called wisdom. This book will certainly not lead the interested amateur astray, but will present both facts and theories and leave the reader to make up his own mind over matters which are still open to question.
I would urge anyone with an interest in cosmology to buy this book and read it . However, be warned; physically it is a little book but, to gain the maximum from reading it, it is definitely not a quick read! Read it, digest it and enjoy! It really is worth the effort!

A good and non-mathematical introduction.
This book lives up to its title as a very short introduction. It covers the history of cosmological ideas including the great astronomical discoveries and theoretical triumphs of the 20th century. It also brings up the questions that are baffling todays cosmologists, the Hubble Constant, Omega, quantum-gravity, dark matter etc.

The introduction is non-mathematical and can be appreciated by non-scientists. There are relevant diagrams and photographs. Ideas are expressed clearly and logically. The book is an ideal starter for anyone interested in this exciting subject.

An excellent introduction to cosmology
Laymen's guides to physics usually resort to metaphors that are seriously misleading. The alternative is a highly mathematical approach that is inaccessible to most readers. Coles manages to simplify without misleading. Actually, some basic knowledge of physics is assumed, at least if you want a full understanding of what is being said, but it is never beyond high school level and most of the book does not require even that.

Covering relativity, quantum theory, particle physics and much else, this is a perfect introduction to a vast and profound topic. My only complaint: cosmology is a fast-changing subject. A new edition is needed very soon.