A similar phenomenon, called symmetry breaking, is thought to have occurred shortly after the Big Bang and upset the balance between matter and antimatter, leaving the universe with more matter.

But because finding the right mix of charges is so crucial to a successful two-sided business, regulating prices could upset a delicate balance.

If you believe him, Mr Putin's rage reflects his fear that the nuclear balance is being upset by Mr Bush's plan to put a limited missile defence system on Czech and Polish soil.