The Defining Years in Nuclear Physics 1932-1960s FROM THE PUBLISHER
Creation, in science, is like any other process, highly individual. Nuclear physics, more than any other branch of physics, has shaped the public perception of science this century. Professor Mladjenovic has put together a fascinating account of the scientists, and their discoveries, in chronological order. It describes the work of the founding fathers of nuclear physics, from Gamow and Dirac, to Van de Graaff and Siegbahn (amongst others). It is the author's view of the most important discoveries made, and reflects, in part, the research he has carried out. Topics include nuclear spectroscopy, in particular beta-ray spectrometers and internal conversion. The author starts from the discovery of the neutron in 1932, to nuclear fission, and closes with sub-atomic processes. The book is written for students of modern physics courses, and as a reference for those interested in the historical development of the subject. Full references for further reading, and to the original papers are provided.
FROM THE CRITICS
Choice
"... touches on every important nuclear physics discovery ... a concise picture of ... achievement in major areas of ... research ... leading investigators and their professional interactions and reactions ... are referenced or quoted so that the reader can grasp quickly and fully how things came to be ... during a period of intense activity and extraordinary discovery ... useful to every nuclear physicist ... a very useful resource for students. Upper-division undergraduates through faculty.
Acta Physica Slovaca
... a rich collection of original wordings, argumentation and illustrations ... the pioneers of nuclear physics ... warmly recommended to teachers of the subject and to all others who simply like to see how our present
understanding of atomic nucleus, its reactions and properties developed ...
Booknews
A survey of the major discoveries in low-energy nuclear physics from 1932 through the 1960s. The author offers a balanced view, covering both the individuals involved in the field and the technical aspects of their research. Topics include the state of nuclear physics in 1931, the discovery of the positron and artificial radioactivity, nuclear forces, accelerators, gas counters, beta-ray spectrometers, the nuclear shell model, and low-energy nuclear reactions. The level of technical detail requires specialized knowledge. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.
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