I Never Call It Big Bang - George Gamow: The Extraordinary Story Of A Genius Of Physics

George Gamow was a brilliant physicist who made significant contributions to Nuclear Physics, Astrophysics, and Cosmology. Despite his achievements, his true merits were often overlooked, but his ideas have been behind several Nobel Prizes in Physics. He had a natural talent for popularization and was a successful science communicator. His life span covered a critical period in history, and his story provides insights into the dialogue between historical events and scientific developments. This book builds on an extensive interview with Gamow conducted by Charles Weiner before his death, and includes materials from other sources to present a comprehensive and complex representation of his life and character.

Format: Hardback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd

This book delves into the captivating life of George Gamow, a renowned physicist who graced the past century with his brilliance. Born in Russia in 1904, Gamow's journey took him to the United States, where he passed away in 1968. Spanning the vibrant decades between the 1920s and the 1960s, Gamow emerged as a pivotal figure in the world of physics. Despite his immense contributions, his true merits often went unnoticed. However, his ideas have left an indelible mark on the field, earning him numerous Nobel Prizes in Physics throughout the century.

Gamow's remarkable achievements in Nuclear Physics, Astrophysics, and Cosmology were the culmination of a unique blend of expertise, creativity, intuition, and a delightful sense of humor. Together, these qualities shaped his image as a true revolutionary scientist. Gamow also possessed a natural talent for popularization, making him an effective science communicator throughout his life.

From a cultural perspective, Gamow's life is particularly intriguing. His journey spanned a critical period in history, moving from Russia to the United States and traversing Europe. His story offers valuable insights into the intricate interplay between historical events and scientific advancements during the 20th century.

Our book is a testament to Gamow's remarkable life and achievements. It builds upon an extensive interview conducted by science historian Charles Weiner with Gamow shortly before his passing. In this interview, Gamow provides a comprehensive overview of his scientific accomplishments, offering a deep insight into his work. By incorporating materials from various sources, we have enriched the portrayal of Gamow's figure, shedding light on his autobiography, his controversial role in the scientific environment of his era, and his enduring legacy.

In the first chapter, we delve into Gamow's early life and education in Russia. We explore his formative years, his passion for physics, and the influences that shaped his scientific journey. From his academic pursuits in Moscow to his experiences as a young scientist in Europe, Gamow's story unfolds like a captivating tale.

In the second chapter, we examine Gamow's contributions to Nuclear Physics. His work on the transformation of neutrons and the theory of beta decay revolutionized our understanding of the atomic nucleus. Gamow's insights into the structure of matter and the behavior of radiation paved the way for advancements in nuclear energy and medicine.

The third chapter explores Gamow's pioneering work in Astrophysics. He made significant contributions to the field, including the development of the Big Bang theory and the explanation of stellar nucleosynthesis. Gamow's understanding of the universe's origins and evolution laid the foundation for our current understanding of the cosmos.

In the fourth chapter, we delve into Gamow's contributions to Cosmology. His work on the origin of the elements and the evolution of the universe provided crucial insights into the early stages of the universe's formation. Gamow's ideas about the early stages of the universe have stood the test of time and continue to shape our understanding of the cosmos.

Throughout his life, Gamow was a prolific writer and a sought-after speaker. His autobiography, "From Russia to America," offers a personal account of his journey and his experiences as a scientist. In this book, Gamow shares his insights into the education he received in Russia, his early research in physics, and his journey to the United States.

In addition to his autobiography, Gamow's controversial role in the scientific environment of his era is explored in the fifth chapter. He faced challenges and controversies throughout his career, but his resilience and dedication to his work remained unwavering. Gamow's contributions to physics have had a profound impact on the field, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of scientists.

In conclusion, George Gamow's life is a testament to the power of brilliance, creativity, and perseverance. His remarkable achievements in Nuclear Physics, Astrophysics, and Cosmology have left an indelible mark on the field of physics. Through his ideas, his talent for popularization, and his enduring legacy, Gamow has become a symbol of scientific innovation and inspiration. This book serves as a tribute to his remarkable life and contributions, offering a comprehensive exploration of his scientific achievements and his enduring impact on the world of science.

Weight: 398g
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811242304