A universe of atoms, an atom in the universe

the long version

"The essays in this book are based on researches the author has undertaken on a wide range of topics, some using equipment no more elaborate than what is found in an ordinary kitchen, others making elegant use of sophisticated experimental apparatus. Presenting a personal odyssey in physics, Mark Silverman investigates processes that seem to violate fundamental physical laws (but do not), or for which no visualizable mechanism can be given, or that appear to be well understood but turn out to be subtly devious. Written in an engagingly personal style, the essays will be of interest to students of physics and related disciplines as well as to professional scientists. Though they deal with subtle concepts, the discussions use little mathematics, and anyone with some college physics will be able to read the book with pleasure."--BOOK JACKET.