The Physics of Superheroes Goes Hollywood - by James Kakalios (Hardcover)

About the Book

"The multiverse and the quantum realm are fictional plot devices made popular by some of our favorite superheroes. But what if science-fiction may actually be science-fact? The truth is that many of the fantastical elements we see on the screen are based in real science. And in The Physics of Superheroes: Hollywood Edition, acclaimed physics professor and superhero nerd James Kakalios explains it all. From Spider-Man's webbing and Black Panther's kinetic suit to Superman's time-traveling speed and Captain Cold's cold gun (not a freeze gun!), there is plenty to learn about the real-life scientific advances that inspired the famous feats of our favorite heroes. Fearless readers will embark on a journey to discover the Theory of General Relativity, quantum chemistry, multiverse theory (both parallel and bubble varieties), and more, while fully immersed in the most popular cinematic universes of our time. Prepare to get educated in the nerdiest way possible"--

Book Synopsis

Discover the surprisingly real physics at work within some of the most popular superhero movies and tv shows

The multiverse and the quantum realm are fictional plot devices made popular by some of our favorite superheroes. But what if science-fiction may actually be science-fact?

The truth is that many of the fantastical elements we see on the screen are based in real science. And in The Physics of Superheroes: Hollywood Edition, acclaimed physics professor and superhero nerd James Kakalios explains it all. From Spider-Man's webbing and Black Panther's kinetic suit to Superman's time-traveling speed and Captain Cold's cold gun (not a freeze gun!), there is plenty to learn about the real-life scientific advances that inspired the famous feats of our favorite heroes. Fearless readers will embark on a journey to discover the Theory of General Relativity, quantum chemistry, multiverse theory (both parallel and bubble varieties), and more, while fully immersed in the most popular cinematic universes of our time.

Prepare to get educated in the nerdiest way possible.

Review Quotes

"Superheroes aren't actually real, but physics definitely is. By asking how ideas from superhero stories can be related to real concepts in physics, we both learn a little science and appreciate the stories a little better. And when the explanations are offered by a writer as entertaining as Jim Kakalios, anyone can enjoy the wild ride."

--Sean Carroll, author of The Biggest Ideas in the Universe

"The Physics of Superheroes Goes Hollywood offers a thrilling excursion to the very extremes of physical reality--from the tiniest quantum scales to the vast frontiers of the cosmos--accompanied by the superpowered champions of modern cinema. With an encyclopedic knowledge of the history and abilities of comic characters, along with a gift for explaining contemporary physics, James Kakalios is the ideal driver for this high speed joy ride. A must for anyone who is a fan of superhero movies, and wishes to understand the imaginative science behind them."

--Paul Halpern, author of The Allure of the Multiverse

"Fantastic, amazing, and spectacularly well-researched, The Physics of Superheroes Goes Hollywood is an accessible and fascinating way to use fictional heroes to learn more about the real world we all share."

--Ryan North, author of How to Take Over the World

"It's easy to cynically handwave away superhero physics as 'comic-book stuff.' Kakalios does the hard and imaginative work of figuring out how the impossible could be possible using cutting-edge science. It's smart and fun and a must-have."

--Mark Waid, writer of Superman: Birthright

"NO ONE does this sort of material better, (blending discussion of science with the high fantasy of superheroics), than Professor James Kakalios. It helps that he writes about both in a crisp, engaging manner that stirs the emotions just as much as the intellect. More than once I teared up a little remembering the exact superhero touchstone moments he describes so beautifully. Highest recommendation."

--Gail Simone, comic book author and screenwriter, Wonder Woman, Deadpool, Uncanny X-Men

"James Kakalios does a truly superheroic job in combining his love of superheroes with his passion for explaining the surprising and fascinating physics that underlies the world around us. Amply laced with his infectious sense of humor, this book will enhance your appreciation of the science in Marvel and DC movies and TV shows and open your eyes to the workings and ideas behind an impressive range of topics, from pencil leads and sand to Artificial Intelligence and the Multiverse."

--Clifford V. Johnson, author and illustrator of The Dialogues: Conversations about the Nature of the Universe

About the Author

James Kakalios is the Taylor Distinguished Professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Minnesota, where he has been teaching since 1988. His research projects in experimental solid state physics range from the nano to the neuro.