Supersymmetry: squarks, photinos, and the unveiling of the ultimate laws of nature

The next breakthrough in physics, supersymmetry will unite the fundamental forces of nature and revolutionize our understanding of space and time. . For most of human history, man has been trying to discover just how the universe works. The Standard Model of particle physics, which describes the fundamental constituents and forces of nature, has proved a useful explanation, and recent theories attempting to unify these fundamental forces-such as string theory-have been wonderfully encouraging. Experimental proof, however, has always lagged behind theory. Now, thanks to powerful new tools and the dedication of a handful of pioneers at the frontiers of research, we are approaching the next great leap in understanding: supersymmetry. In this groundbreaking work, renowned physicist Gordon Kane takes us inside both the conceptual framework of supersymmetry and the giant particle accelerators-the atom smashers-where this fascinating discovery should occur. After giving us the basics of the Standard Model, Kane explains the theory of supersymmetry, which implies that each of the fundamental particles has a "superpartner" that can be detected at energies and intensities only now being achieved in the giant accelerators. If Kane and his colleagues are correct, these superpartners will also help solve many of the puzzles of modern physics-such as the existence of the Higgs boson-as well as one of the biggest mysteries in cosmology: the notorious "dark matter" of the universe. No one interested in the future of science will want to miss this absorbing narrative of science in the making.