The Dark Matter: Contemporary Science's Quest for the Mass Hidden in Our Universe

From Publishers Weekly Looking out into the universe, astronomers, cosmologists and astrophysicists are puzzled by what they see. If all the visible matter in the heavens (chiefly in stars and giant gas clouds) is taken into account, it is not nearly enough to explain the observed motions of the stars, galaxies and large-scale structure of the universe. Is there hidden matter? Where is it? In this popular-science book the Tuckers (coauthors of The Cosmic Inquirers) discuss current theories and research programs that seek to resolve the mystery of the "dark matter." They introduce general readers to hypothesized subatomic particles (photinos, axions and massive neurinos), old celestial objects (black holes and brown dwarfs) and new cosmological theories (superstrings and inflationary universes). This is a well-written survey of an awesome and unresolved area of scientific research. Illustrations not seen by PW. Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc. From School Library Journal YA This well-organized volume explains, in terms that a high-school student can grasp, the search for dark matter in the universe. Beginning with the solar system and building to superclusters, the authors lead readers to basic understanding. Readers should bear in mind that works written to popularize difficult scientific concepts are not meant for the science expert who may find the oversimplifications irritating. This book is meant for students who have little or no background, but who are curious and will take questions back to class. Occasional unfamiliar terminology (i.e., cosmions) is used. Most high schools will want to add this to their collections. Bob Fliess, Episcopal High School, Bellaire-Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.