E=mc2

A Biography of the World's Most Famous Equation

By: David Bodanis

Narrated by: Dan Cashman

Length: 6 hrs and 49 mins

Publisher's summary

Generations have grown up knowing that the equation E=mc2 changed the shape of our world, but never understanding what it actually means and why it was so significant. Here, Bodanis writes the "biography" of this great discovery and turns a seemingly impenetrable theory into a dramatic and accessible human achievement. Bodanis begins by introducing the science and scientists forming the backdrop to Einstein's discovery. Having demystified the equation, he explains its science and brings it to life; making clear the astonishing array of discoveries and consequences it made possible and its impact on our daily lives. At last, the masses can understand that Einstein did nothing less than open the door to the inner structure of the universe.

©2000 David Bodanis
(P)2002 Random House, Inc.

Critic reviews

“Bodanis’ account is exhilarating.... This book filled me, once again, with delight at what numbers, together with a free-ranging intellect, can achieve. E=mc² is to be treasured because, in its small compass, it reveals so much of what makes science tick...a few more books like this and perhaps our policy makers will remember what science is about.” (The Globe and Mail)

Great History of A-Bomb Development

I enjoyed this treatment of the great equation. The history included was fascinating. He doesn't seem to mention that chemical energy also has some relation to mass change. In spite of this it is well worth the read. It gives some memorable insights into history.

Very Good Basic Understanding

This is an excellent book to explain a well known, but little understood formula. It begins by explaining the history of each of the characters (E, M, C, = etc...) From there it goes on to explain how this formula relates to everything from an the A bomb, to the future of the solar system. This book does a good job of trying to explain some very complicated ideas without getting to deep into the subatomic details. If you want a simple understanding, then this book is the right choice for you.
One noticable flaw with hearing the book is the lack of illustrations and the often given reference to the authors website. If you have trouble reaching his site, do a search for the authors name (David Bodanis) and you'll find his site with all the information promised.

Radiation, Protons and Mass

Listening to Albert Einstein tales has always been interesting and informative; I typically save, share and reread them a few times. Many thanks to David Bodanis. Bye for now Glen ;-)

Interesting

This book is worth a listen. The author does a good job explaining Einstein's central idea and how it relates to everything around us. There is a good mix of history and science. If you want to understand E=mc2, grab this book.

E=MC2

If you have ever wondered about the equation E=MC2, this book does an excellent job of explaining it to any novice in physics. Excellently written and presented.

Perfection

A wonderfully compelling narrative of the basis for and the results stemming from the most consequential scientific discovery in the history of human beings. Although concise, the story goes deep enough to give the listener a brief glimpse into the genius of Einstien, of the scientists upon whose shoulders he stood, and of the subsequent discoveries of the men and women who carried the mantle of exploring the meaning and practical applications of Einstien's astounding revelations. A "must" read/listen for anyone who has ever wondered about the meaning of this curiously simple equation.

Good physics, lousy agenda

When the author sticks to physics, the book is excellent. When he takes leaps of ignorance and bashes (mildly) Christianity and the Bible, he cheapens himself and leads the listener astray. It is painful enough to listen to "billions of years of age" theory talk...just stick to the subject which is "E=MC2".

Get this!

Outstanding. Spellbinding. Terrific narrator and a book that combines the best in biography and history with the most compelling of basic physics. This book humanizes the equation and revited this listener.

Brings science to life

A thoroughly enjoyable audio book which not only brings this famous equation to life but, more interestingly, the many people surrounding its development and application, in a way that is not too technical.

Science for non-scientists

I now understand as much about the famous equation as I ever will . And a good history of nuclear physics as well. I was entertained and informed. Can't ask for more than that.