By A Zichichi
World Scientific
The book is a tribute to the great experimental physicist Lord Patrick M S Blackett, written by one of his pupils at the Sphynx Observatory, Antonio Zichichi. Blackett is well known for his work on cloud chambers and cosmic rays, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1948.
The author offers his personal testimony, from the first time he heard Blackett’s name to when he went to work with him, and then about the research he could be involved in. He provides a profile of his subject while giving an overview of Blackett’s work and, in particular, of his most significant discoveries, including the so-called vacuum-polarisation effect, the first example of “virtual physics”, and strange particles. The important implications of Blackett’s pioneering contribution to sub-nuclear physics are also discussed.
The book also presents a portrait of the world of physics during those times, and gives insights into life and research at CERN, as well as about Blackett’s ideas. He was very interested in the role of science in the culture of the time. He was convinced that physicists should be directly engaged with communicating to society, which should be informed about the contribution of science to the progress of our civilisation.
Rich in personal anecdotes, pictures and appendices, the book could appeal to physicists and students who are also interested in the history of science and in the human dimension of great scientists. As a final point, the layout and editing could be improved.
