The Science of TV's 'The Big Bang Theory'

This is an ideal book for fans of The Big Bang Theory who want to understand what the science-minded characters are talking about. Zobel, who wrote for the syndicated radio show The Loh Down on Science for seven years, breaks down the complicated science discussed on the show into simple explanations for the average person. Characters Leonard, Howard, Raj, and Sheldon work in physics and engineering, but Zobel does not focus on explaining the work they do. Instead, he discusses the offhand references in the characters' conversations and uses quotes from their dialogue as introductions to each chapter. The diverse topics include phosphorescence (from Sheldon's declaration that he wants a glow-in-the-dark ant farm because their best work occurs at night), how a potato can power a clock (arising out of a visit with Professor Proton), and gravity (sparked by Sheldon's observation that Penny's hulking ex-boyfriend is disrupting the local gravity field). Zobel's humor and references to the show make this an entertaining and informative read for anyone interested in science. (July)