The Physics of Everyday Things

The Extraordinary Science Behind an Ordinary Day

By: James Kakalios

Narrated by: Jonathan Todd Ross

Physics professor, bestselling author, and dynamic storyteller James Kakalios reveals the mind-bending science behind the seemingly basic things that keep our daily lives running, from our smart phones and digital “clouds” to x-ray machines and hybrid vehicles.

Most of us are clueless when it comes to the physics that makes our modern world so convenient. What’s the simple science behind motion sensors, touch screens, and toasters? How do we glide through tolls using an E-Z Pass, or find our way to new places using GPS? In The Physics of Everyday Things, James Kakalios takes us on an amazing journey into the subatomic marvels that underlie so much of what we use and take for granted.

Breaking down the world of things into a single day, Kakalios engages our curiosity about how our refrigerators keep food cool, how a plane manages to remain airborne, and how our wrist fitness monitors keep track of our steps. Each explanation is coupled with a story revealing the interplay of the astonishing invisible forces that surround us. Through this “narrative physics,” The Physics of Everyday Things demonstrates that—far from the abstractions conjured by terms like the Higgs Boson, black holes, and gravity waves—sophisticated science is also quite practical. With his signature clarity and inventiveness, Kakalios ignites our imaginations and enthralls us with the principles that make up our lives.

Makes Physics Fun and Relevant to Life

As a Physics major, I'm always looking for ways to explain Physics to others without the material going over their heads. This book does exactly that! Its a great read for anyone and everyone. Audible 20 Review Sweepstakes Entry

Ordinary things that rely on extraordinary physics

Though most people don't really know or understand what physicists work on, this book highlights how their discoveries often make their way into devices, products, and technology, impacting our daily lives.

Terrific Book

Highly technical, comprehensive in analysis, and well researched.
I appreciate the focus on what’s taken for granted, then provocatively broken down to it’s working parts.

How it Works

The science behind the technology that powers the 21st century is artfully explained in concise language.

Deeper Perspective

This story is scaffolded in a way that continually builds on mini physics lessons the book provides. It's a great read and the author does an excellent job explaining the common physics of things we encounter on a regular basis!