The Physics of Superheroes
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The Physics of Superheroes | |
Author | James Kakalios |
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Country | U.S.A |
Language | English |
Subject(s) | Physics and Superhero comics |
Genre(s) | Non-fiction |
Publisher | Gotham Books |
Publication date | 2005 |
Media type | Print (Hardcover) |
Pages | 365 |
ISBN | 1-592-40242-9 |
The Physics of Superheroes is a popular science book by physics professor and long-time comic-book fan James Kakalios. First published in 2005, it explores the basic laws of physics. Kakalios' goal is not to show where the world of superheroes contradicts modern science - he grants each of the heroes one or more "miracle exceptions" from natural law; instead, he focuses on examples of comic book scenes that can be used to understand the diverse laws of physics from an unusual angle. How did Gwen Stacy die? Spider-Man obviously didn't know enough about the effects of sudden acceleration. Can Ant-Man literally punch his way out of a paper bag? It's a matter of physics - of levers and torque, to be precise. In this way, Kakalios covers diverse topics, from mechanics to the quantum world.