Book Reviewed: The Gravity of Math, How Geometry Rules the Universe by Steven J. Nadis

Geometry and physics Geometry and mathematical statements derived from logic provide the best theoretical descriptions of our physical world. Einstein’s theory of general relativity describes gravity as the curvature of spacetime caused by massive objects. Mathematically, this is expressed through complex equations using tensors and geometry which is not just a language, it’s the very fabric of our universe. Geometrical analyses are also used to study the shape and curvature of spaces, similar to relativistic description of the curvature of spacetime. A circle can be drawn with any center on a flat two-dimensional surface, this is called Euclidean geometry. But on a spherical surface such as the planet Earth, no true parallel lines exist. For instance, all lines of longitude on Earth eventually intersect at the North and South Poles. Because earth is spherical. Therefore, this requires non-Euclidean geometry. This book largely focuses on gravity and relativity to illustrate the importance of geometry, i.e., the non-Euclidean geometry. The readers must note that this is about geometry and gravity (spacetime bending). Math is hard enough to appreciate, and geometry generates less interest for an average reader. I did not find this book interesting since there are many books in the market that describe relativity in a much better way.