Conjuring the Universe

The marvellous complexity of the Universe emerges from several deep laws and a handful of fundamental constants that fix its shape, scale, and destiny. There is a deep structure to the world which at the same time is simple, elegant, and beautiful. Where did these laws and these constants come
from? And why are the laws so fruitful when written in the language of mathematics?

Peter Atkins considers the minimum effort needed to equip the Universe with its laws and its constants. He explores the origin of the conservation of energy, of electromagnetism, of classical and quantum mechanics, and of thermodynamics, showing how all these laws spring from deep symmetries. The
revolutionary result is a short but immensely rich weaving together of the fundamental ideas of physics. With his characteristic wit, erudition, and economy, Atkins sketches out how the laws of Nature can spring from very little. Or arguably from nothing at all.

The marvellous complexity of the Universe emerges from several deep laws and a handful of fundamental constants that fix its shape, scale, and destiny. There is a deep structure to the world which at the same time is simple, elegant, and beautiful. Where did these laws and these constants come from? And why are the laws so fruitful when written in the language of mathematics? Peter Atkins considers the minimum effort needed to equip the Universe with its laws and its constants. He explores the origin of the conservation of energy, of electromagnetism, of classical and quantum mechanics, and of thermodynamics, showing how all these laws spring from deep symmetries. The revolutionary result is a short but immensely rich weaving together of the fundamental ideas of physics. With his characteristic wit, erudition, and economy, Atkins sketches out how the laws of Nature can spring from very little. Or arguably from nothing at all.

"Atkins writes in a clear and humorous manner for the lay reader. Don�t skip the notes at the end of the book. Some real gems are hidden there ... Recommended for undergraduates and general readers." --CHOICE

"Atkins provides readers with a solid understanding of modern physics in this entertaining unpacking of the notion that "nothing is the foundation of everything."" --Publishers Weekly

"Throughout, he helps us understand the importance of the underlying laws of nature, such as electricity, magnetism, and temperature, and how they touch every single moment of our lives. He also demonstrates the importance of continuing to advance the study of the world around us...Atkins pleasingly
takes the laws apart, amuses himself (and us) with their parts, and then reassembles them." --Kirkus

"Conjuring the Universe was a joy to read! It is a funny, impassioned, erudite summing up of one person's ruminations on reality over the course of a lifetime... a real tour de force."--MAA Reviews

"Atkins writes in a clear and humorous manner for the lay reader."--Choice