The Dark Matter Problem: A Historical Perspective

by Robert H. Sanders

Most astronomers and physicists now believe that the matter content of the Universe is dominated by dark hypothetical particles which interact with normal matter primarily through the force of gravity. Though invisible to current direct detection methods, dark matter can explain a variety of astronomical observations. This book describes how this theory has developed over the past 75 years, and why it is now a central feature of extragalactic astronomy and cosmology. Current attempts to directly detect dark matter locally are discussed, together with the implications for particle physics. The author comments on the sociology of these developments, demonstrating how and why scientists work and interact. Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND), the leading alternative to this theory, is also presented. This fascinating overview will interest cosmologists, astronomers and particle physicists. Mathematics is kept to a minimum, so the book can be understood by non-specialists.

Genres: Physics

214 pages, Paperback

First published April 22, 2010

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intended for readers with some background in math and science, this book is an elegant summary of the history of a phenomenon that dates back to the 1930s. It is difficult for a general reader to keep up with developments that are reported in specialist journals and the author has done all the work for us, not only synthesizing all the important contributions but also providing a wealth of attributions. The book is extremely well written with helpful introductions, transitions, and summaries. If only my students would write like this!

[Julian Onions · Rating 4 out of 5]

good but assumes knowledge of the field which is fine by me!

[Lex Rex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fairly complete revision of the (dark) matter at an adequate level for non-scientists.