About “Physics of the Impossible”

Physics of the Impossible is a non-fiction work by Michio Kaku that examines technologies often considered impossible, such as death rays, force fields, and invisibility cloaks. The book explores how these ideas might become possible in the future, using science fiction as a starting point. Kaku categorizes technologies into three classes based on when they might be achieved—within the next century, millennia, or not at all. He discusses how advances in science and technology could one day make seemingly impossible ideas, like teleportation or time travel, feasible. The book uses each technology as a way to explain the science behind it, covering topics such as optics, electromagnetism, and quantum physics. Kaku also considers the potential for telepathy and psychokinesis, as well as space travel using advanced propulsion systems. The book aims to inform and entertain by exploring the limits of current physics and the possibilities of future discoveries.

Praise for “Physics of the Impossible”

“[Kaku explores] what we still do not quite understand, those grey areas that are surely the most fascinating part of physics.”

— New Scientist

“Kaku's latest book aims to explain exactly why some visions of the future may eventually be realized while others are likely to remain beyond the bounds of possibility. . . . Science fiction often explores such questions; science falls silent at this point. Kaku's work helps to fill a void.”

— The Economist

“A fascinating exploration of the interface between science and science fiction, extremely well researched, lively, and tremendously entertaining.”

— Fritjof Capra, author of The Tao of Physics and The Science of Leonardo

Book details

Published
2009
Latest edition
2009 · ISBN 9780307278821
ISBN
9780307278821
View more editions (5)
CoverEditionYearISBN
Physics of the Impossible 2009 9780307278821 Buy on Amazon
Physics of the Impossible 2008 9780385520690 Buy on Amazon
Physics of the impossible 2008 9780713999921 Buy on Amazon
Physics of the Impossible 2008 9780385520690 Buy on Amazon
Physics of the Impossible 2008 9780739359020 Buy on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

How many pages is Physics of the Impossible?

Physics of the Impossible by Michio Kaku has 352 pages.

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Book descriptions, author biographies, award records and review quotes on this page are courtesy of Penguin Random House.