Physics Around the Clock

'Physics not only shapes the cosmos but every aspect of our lives.' Physics Around the Clock is an illuminating and fun journey through the physics of everyday life. From the thermodynamics of cooking the perfect pizza, or what 'plate' mechanics says about how to cut your fingernails to the optimal way to board an aeroplane, this lively book explains what physics can reveal about so many seemingly ordinary aspects of everyday living. The book follows a typical day, beginning at breakfast and the morning routine, and moving through typical daytime activities and evening pursuits, including sports, gardening, looking after pets, socialising and playing games, and enjoying a take-away and film. Binding it all together is physics and what physical theories or experimental techniques can reveal about our everyday situations.

MICHAEL BANKS is news editor of Physics World magazine, the monthly member publication from the UK's Institute of Physics (www.physicsworld.com). He has written and edited a range of article types from news and analysis to features and blogs as well as recording podcasts and narrating videos, and has written book reviews and news stories for outlets including Nature, BBC Focus and Science Uncovered as well as appearing on BBC Radio 4 and at science festivals. Michael's PhD was in condensed-matter physics at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Physics in Stuttgart, Germany.