Probability One - Hardcover
At one level, this book surveys recent findings about the existence of planets orbiting other sun-like stars, such as 51 Pegasi (discovered in 1995) and Tau Bootis. It addresses questions such as what life is and what intelligent life is, as well as theories about how life evolved on Earth from basic molecules into more complex organic compounds leading to DNA. The existence of similar molecules on other planets in our solar system, as well as in meteorites that land on Earth every year, are used in an argument for the evolution of such compounds - the building blocks of life - outside Earth. At the same time, the author applies the laws of large numbers to the immense size of the known universe, with its billions of galaxies, each containing many billions of stars, to argue the probability that there is life elsewhere.
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Review:
In a universe infinitely large, what is the probability of intelligent life on another planet? Sounds like a trick question, but for anyone versed in cosmology and statistics, the answer is 1; that is, there must be life on at least one other planet in the universe. This is Amir Aczel's theorem. But, as physicist Enrico Fermi once asked, if that's true, where is everyone? Aczel tackles that paradox after he goes through the statistical calculations for the probability of intelligent life, considering factors such as how many stars are in a galaxy, how many of those stars might be hospitable, how many might have planets, and how many planets might have environments suitable to support life as we know it (or as we don't).
Review:
Aczel also provides an overview of the relevant developments in astronomy and biology, laying the groundwork to show that the universe's chemistry must add up to life. Whether life was spread through the universe by chunks of debris like ALH84001--the enigmatic meteorite from Mars that contained tantalising hints of the possibility of life--or arose independently, Aczel is sure it is out there. After teasing readers with scientific history, Probability 1 delivers on its promise to prove Aczel's conjecture through a clearly explained application of known statistical theory to the chaos of the universe.--Therese Littleton, Amazon.com
* "...does a superb job of creating in the nonmathematical reader the illusion of comprehension" -- NEW YORKER
FERMAT'S LAST THEOREM * "Fascinating and compelling" -- SUNDAY TIMES
FERMAT'S LAST THEOREM * "Fascinating and compelling" -- SUNDAY TIMES
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- PublisherLittle, Brown & Company
- Publication date1999
- ISBN 10 0316648299
- ISBN 13 9780316648295
- BindingHardcover
- Number of pages240
- Rating
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Probability One
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Little, Brown & Company 04/03/1999
(1999)
ISBN 10: 0316648299
ISBN 13: 9780316648295
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Probability One
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ISBN 10: 0316648299
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Book Description Paperback. Condition: Very Good. At one level, this book surveys recent findings about the existence of planets orbiting other sun-like stars, such as 51 Pegasi (discovered in 1995) and Tau Bootis. It addresses questions such as what life is and what intelligent life is, as well as theories about how life evolved on Earth from basic molecules into more complex organic compounds leading to DNA. The existence of similar molecules on other planets in our solar system, as well as in meteorites that land on Earth every year, are used in an argument for the evolution of such compounds - the building blocks of life - outside Earth. At the same time, the author applies the laws of large numbers to the immense size of the known universe, with its billions of galaxies, each containing many billions of stars, to argue the probability that there is life elsewhere. The book has been read, but is in excellent condition. Pages are intact and not marred by notes or highlighting. The spine remains undamaged. Seller Inventory # GOR003820286
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Probability One
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Probability One
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ISBN 13: 9780316648295
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Book Description Condition: Very Good. Shipped within 24 hours from our UK warehouse. Clean, undamaged book with no damage to pages and minimal wear to the cover. Spine still tight, in very good condition. Remember if you are not happy, you are covered by our 100% money back guarantee. Seller Inventory # 6545-9780316648295
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Probability One
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Book Description Hardcover. Condition: Used; Good. ***Simply Brit*** Welcome to our online used book store, where affordability meets great quality. Dive into a world of captivating reads without breaking the bank. We take pride in offering a wide selection of used books, from classics to hidden gems, ensuring there is something for every literary palate. All orders are shipped within 24 hours and our lightning fast-delivery within 48 hours coupled with our prompt customer service ensures a smooth journey from ordering to delivery. Discover the joy of reading with us, your trusted source for affordable books that do not compromise on quality. Seller Inventory # 1108075
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Probability One
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ISBN 13: 9780316648295
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Book Description Condition: Very Good. Book is in Used-VeryGood condition. Pages and cover are clean and intact. Used items may not include supplementary materials such as CDs or access codes. May show signs of minor shelf wear and contain very limited notes and highlighting. Seller Inventory # 0316648299-2-3
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Probability 1 why There Must be Intelligent Life in the Universe
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Book Description First in Great Britain: Fine dark blue boards (hardback) , with metallic green titles to spine, 9.5 x 6.00 inches approx. , near fine coloured pictorial dust jacket, not price clipped, dark blue endpapers, no inscriptions, 230 pages including index. A scientific approach to the probability that other life forms exist in the universe. Seller Inventory # 14520
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Probability One
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ISBN 13: 9780316648295
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Book Description Condition: Very Good. Appears unread. Jacket/hard board have some light storage wear, marks and scratches. Stain at bottom edge of front jacket. Occasional faint foxing at text blocks. Text excellent. Seller Inventory # 115345-12
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Probability 1. Why there must be intelligent life in the universe.
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Book Description Original publisher's dark-blue paper-covered BOARDS, green lettering spine, pictorial dustjacket, large 8vo: [x], 230pp., epilogue, endnotes, bibliography, index. Very fine copy. Seller Inventory # 186835
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