Electron: A Centenary Volume

This book marks the centenary of the discovery of the electron by J.J. Thomson in 1897, one of the great turning points in the history of scientific ideas. In this book the discussion moves from the historical context of the discovery of the electron and its basic properties, to the Dirac equation, bonding in condensed matter, Fermi and non-Fermi liquids, quantum order, superconductivity, heavy, coherent and composite electrons, and the role of the electron in the cosmos, with each chapter being written by a leading figure in the field.

This centenary volume celebrates the discovery of the electron in 1897, an event which had a profound effect on scientific thought and development in the twentieth century, as well as on our everyday lives. Written by leaders in their respective fields, the book moves from the historical context of the discovery, through many aspects of the electron's behavior, to its role in the cosmos. Throughout the emphasis is on conceptual matters, exploring our perception of the nature of the electron and its interactions one hundred years after its discovery.