Zapped: From Infrared to X-Rays, the Curious History of Invisible Light

We are surrounded by a vital substance we cannot see. Berman (Zoom; The Sun's Heartbeat) tracks the history of invisible light from the findings of early Greek and Arab thinkers who observed the eye to discoveries of 19th-century scientists William Herschel, Heinrich Hertz, Michael Faraday, and the Curies. The author explores different types of invisible light including radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, and cosmic rays. He explains the principles behind microwave ovens, cell phones, GPS trackers, and X-rays, as well as the controversies over the perceived dangers of these technologies. Berman also addresses fantastical applications of light waves such as ray guns and ESP and still emerging fields of zero-point energy and dark energy. The author excels at making complex concepts accessible for lay readers.