A spectacular and humorous guide to the physics of everyday life—perfect for readers of Storm in a Teacup and The Disappearing Spoon.

Why do bridges sway in the wind? Why do doorknobs sometimes produce a shock? Where does lightning actually come from—and more importantly, what should we do if we’re suddenly surrounded by it? The Ups and Downs of Physics explores the physics of the world around us: from dropped cell phone calls to falling objects, radioactivity, alternating currents, and humidity. The book also examines the ethical implications of scientific decision-making by recounting cases such as the Challenger disaster and the Goiânia radioactive accident. And while physics can sometimes cause us problems, the underlying principles are elegant and fascinating—and with this book, we can learn how to harness them to our advantage.

Told in a charming, conversational voice by the husband-and-wife duo Marcus Weber, a celebrated physicist, and Judith Weber, an acclaimed science communicator, this book interweaves fascinating facts about pistol shrimp and electrostatic charge with chatty stories and experiments readers can try at home. Marcus and Judith discuss everything from a cycling holiday in Cuba, to a cracked window in their home, to figuring out why an experiment they designed for a science television show damaged the iPhone of a famous celebrity …

Who knew physics could be so much fun!?


LEVELING
Fountas and Pinnell level: Z+
 
Contributor Bio(s)
 

Marcus Weber is a physicist and founder of his own science-show entertainment company that has created accessible science programming for television. He studied physics first in Dortmund, Germany and later in Edinburgh, Scotland. He has received a medal for scientific journalism in Germany and three Best Demo Competition prizes from the British Interactive Group.

Judith Weber is a journalist and author who has written many books—some co-authored with her husband Marcus Weber—for adults and children exploring themes that intersect science and entertainment.