The Handy Science Answer Book

Description

Previous editions sold a combined 1,000,000 units

1,635 answers to common questions in plain English on all aspects of science

More than 500 new questions and answers covering the innumerable discoveries and advancements over the last nine years since the previous edition was written

Science made accessible with fascinating questions, and illustrated with dozens of charts and graphs, plus personalities, history and fun facts.

Written and aimed at general audiences with no or little prior science knowledge

The first, best place to turn for an overview of science basics

Ideal as an authoritative reference for nagging questions

Ideal as a primer on science

Logical organization makes finding information quick and easy

Clear and concise answers

Numerous black-and-white photographs

Thoroughly indexed

Authoritative resource

Written to appeal to anyone interested in science, science fundamentals, concepts and terms, including students, teachers, and parents

Publicity and promotion aimed at the wide array of websites devoted to science, learning or students

Back-to-school promotion targeting more mainstream media and websites on a popular topic

Promotion targeting magazines and newspapers

Promotion targeting local radio looking for knowledgeable guests
What is science?

The field of science involves the observation, description and experimentation of the natural world in an attempt to explain the “whys” and “hows” of our world. It is a way of thinking and an ongoing method of looking at the world. Science is a way of discovering how the world works by using a set of rules devised by scientists.

Who were the earliest scientists?

Inquisitive individuals have always attempted to explain the physical world. The early Babylonians and Egyptians were aware of natural phenomena and events. Many times, they tried to explain these events in terms of their gods. The early Greeks were among the first people to look for explanations of natural phenomena based on discovery and knowledge. The Greek philosopher Thales (c.624 B.C.E. – c. 547 B.C.E.) is often credited as being the first to look for an answer to the question “What is the world is made of?” Although most of the writings of Thales have been lost, we know he proposed water as the single substance from which everything in the world was made.

Is there one individual who is considered the most influential scientist in the history and development of Western science?

Most experts seem to agree that Isaac Newton (1642–1727) is the most influential figure in the history of Western science. He was considered a great intellectual in his lifetime and the admiration within the scientific community continues today after some three hundred years.

Why is Isaac Newton also considered the father of modern science?

Isaac Newton (1642–1727) earned his place as the father of modern science by totally changing the way science was viewed in the evolution of human understanding of the universe, especially regarding his concepts and theories of motion, gravity, and mechanics.

What other scientists have been particularly influential in the history and development of science through the ages?

In addition to Isaac Newton (1642–1727), many scholars regard the following individuals as having played a major role in the history and development of science:

1..Albert Einstein (1879–1952) and twentieth-century physics including the theory of relativity

2. Galileo Galilei (1564–1642) and the new science

3. Johannes Kepler (1571–1630) and motion of the planets

4. Nicolaus Copernicus (1473–1543) and the heliocentric universe

5. Niels Bohr (1885–1962) and the atom

6. Antoine Laurent Lavoisier (1743–1794) and the revolution in chemistry

7. Charles Darwin (1809–1882) and evolution

8. Louis Pasteur (1822–1895) and the germ theory of disease

9. Sigmund Freud (1856–1939) and psychology of the unconscious

What are some of the historical time periods of science?

An outline of the historical periods in the development of science include:

1. Antiquity: The period of time in which practical goals such as establishing a reliable calendar or determining how to cure a variety of illnesses existed simultaneously with abstract investigations known as natural philosophy.

2. Medieval Science: There were few major contributions in fields of science during the Medieval years. Exceptions were the emergence of science in the first established universities and the formulation of the scientific method.

3. Renaissance and Early Modern Science: During this time period, Copernicus (1473–1543) formulated a heliocentric model of the solar system unlike the geocentric model of Ptolemy (c.100–c.170). Johannes Kepler (1571–1630), through his laws of planetary motion, improved upon Copernicus’ heliocentric model. A major technological development was the invention of the printing press.

4. Age of Enlightenment: Science during the Enlightenment was dominated by scientific societies and academies, which had largely replaced universities as centers of scientific research and development. Science became increasingly popular among the educated population. This time period saw advances in mathematics and physics; the development of biological taxonomy; a new understanding of gases as well as magnetism and electricity; and the maturation of chemistry as a discipline.

5. Nineteenth Century: The discoveries and achievements of the nineteenth century brought a close to the era of classical science and set the stage for the development of science as we know it today. During this period, there were new discoveries about electricity and magnetism, genetics, and evolution, the age of the earth, the stars and the planets, and the nature of infection and disease. These discoveries revolutionized the way people lived and how they perceived the world around them.

6. Twentieth Century: The twentieth century was a time of extraordinary scientific activity. In the life sciences, scientists discovered the structure and function of DNA and uncovered the process by which genetic traits are passed from one generation to the next. New drugs conquered formerly fatal diseases. In the physical sciences, radioactivity and X-rays were discovered, and the atomic bomb was developed. During this time period, there was a move toward increased specialization in all fields of science. The use of computers in scientific research became common.

7. Twenty-first Century: The expanding horizons of science from the study of subatomic particles to missions deeper into outer space continue to reveal new and exciting cutting-edge information during the early years of the twenty-first century.

What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is the basis of scientific investigation. A scientist will pose a question and formulate a hypothesis as a potential explanation or answer to the question. The hypothesis will be tested through a series of experiments. The results of the experiments will either prove or disprove the hypothesis. Hypotheses that are consistent with available data are conditionally accepted.

What are the steps of the scientific method?

Research scientists follow these steps:

1. State a hypothesis.

2. Design an experiment to “prove” the hypothesis.

3. Assemble the materials and set up the experiment.

4. Do the experiment and collect data.

5. Analyze the data using quantitative methods.

6. Draw conclusions.

7. Write up and publish the results.

Who is one of the first individuals associated with the scientific method?

Abu Ali al-Hasan ibn al-Haytham (c. 966–1039), whose name is usually Latinized to Alhazen or Alhacen, is known as the “father of the science of optics” and was also one of the earliest experimental scientists. Between the tenth and fourteenth centuries, Muslim scholars were responsible for the development of the scientific method. These individuals were the first to use experiments and observation as the basis of science, and many historians regard science as starting during this period. Alhazen is regarded as the architect of the scientific method. His scientific method involved the following steps:

1. Observation of the natural world

About the Author

Acknowledgments

Preface

Introduction

1. Overview

2. Mathematics

3. Physics

4. Chemistry

5. Astronomy and Space

6. Geology and Earth Sciences

7. Meteorology and Climatology

8. Biology

9. Genetics

10. Botany

11. Zoology

12. Anatomy and Physiology

13. Ecology

14. Applied Science and Technology

Bibliography

Glossary

Index

Sujets

• Musulmán
• Musulman
• Islam
• Science
• Galilée
• History
• Isaac Newton
• Charles Darwin
• Galilée (savant)
• Nobel Prize
• List of Nobel laureates
• Galileo Galilei
• Histoire

Informations

• Publié par: Visible Ink Press
• Date de parution: 01 août 2019
• Nombre de lectures: 0
• EAN13: 9781578597024
• Langue: English
• Poids de l'ouvrage: 18 Mo

Extrait

Table of Contents
I NTRODUCTION
GENERAL SCIENCE
Introduction and Historical Background Societies, Publications, and Awards Laboratory Tools and Techniquest
MATHEMATICS
Introduction and Historical Background Numbers Algebra Geometry Calculus Statistics and Probability
PHYSICS
Introduction and Historical Background Energy, Motion, and Force Light, Sound, and Other Waves Electricity and Magnetism Particle Physics
CHEMISTRY
Introduction and Historical Background Matter Chemical Elements Metals Everyday Chemistry
ASTRONOMY AND SPACE
Introduction and Historical Background Universe Observation and Measurement Galaxies Stars Sun Solar System Planets Exoplanets Moons Comets and Meteorites Space Exploration
GEOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCE
Introduction and Historical Background Observation and Measurement Physical Characteristics Land Rocks and Minerals Fossils Earthquakes Volcanoes Water
METEOROLOGY AND CLIMATOLOGY
Introduction and Historical Background Observation, Measurement, and Prediction Temperature The Atmosphere Clouds Precipitation Atmospheric Phenomena Stormy Weather
BIOLOGY
Introduction and Historical Background Classification Cells Viruses Bacteria Protists Fungi
GENETICS
Introduction and Historical Background DNA and RNA Genes and Chromosomes Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Genetics and Evolution
BOTANY
Introduction and Historical Background Plant Diversity Plant Structure and Function Soil
ZOOLOGY
Introduction and Historical Background Animal Characteristics Animal Behavior Sponges and Coelenterates Worms Mollusks and Echinoderms Arthropods: Crustaceans Arthropods: Spiders Arthropods: Insects Chordates and Vertebrates Sharks and Fish Amphibians and Reptiles Birds Mammals Pets and Domesticated Animals
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Introduction and Historical Background Tissue Organs and Organ Systems Cardiovascular and Circulatory System Digestive System Endocrine System Excretory System Immune and Lymphatic Systems Integumentary System Muscular System Nervous System Reproductive System Respiratory System Skeletal System
ECOLOGY
Introduction and Historical Background Ecosystems Ecological Cycles Biomes Pollution and Wastes Water Pollution Air Pollution Endangered and Extinct Plants and Animals Sustainability and Conservation
APPLIED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Introduction and Historical Background Computers Communications Energy Transportation
F URTHER R EADING
I NDEX
Acknowledgments
Jim and Naomi dedicate this edition to Sandi and Carey: We owe you a lot! In addition, the authors thank their families for the ongoing interest, encouragement, support, and especially their understanding while this edition was being revised.
Photo Sources
Salix Alba: p. 27 .
Andrevruas (Wikicommons): p. 214 .
Toni Barros: p. 320 .
J. Brew: p. 22 .
Carafe (Wikicommons): p. 532 .
Carny (Wikicommons): p. 328 .
Daderot (Wikicommons): p. 105 .
Valentin de Bruyn / Coton: p. 235 .
Stephen C. Dickson: p. 87 .
Efbrazil (Wikicommons): p. 210 .
Electrical Review : p. 79 .
ESO/L. Cal ada and Nick Risinger (skysurvey.org): p. 139 .
Executive Office of the President of the United States: p. 466 .
Gawthorpe Hall: p. 91 .
Georesearch Volcanedo Germany: p. 227 .
German Federal Archives: p. 56 .
Mike Goren: p. 365 .
Hannes Grobe/AWI: p. 175 .
Alex Handy: p. 536 .
Fred Hartsook: p. 333 .
Kevin Hile: p. 40 (left).
Houghton Library: p. 4 .
Kjoonlee (Wikicommons): p. 28 .
Kowloonese (Wikicommons): p. 198 .
Robert Krewaldt: p. 71 .
Library of Congress: p p. 90 , 555 .
Life magazine: p. 19 .
Russ London: p. 315 .
Walter Marius: p. 319 .
Mercury13 (Wikicommons): p. 537 .
Paul Nadar: p. 72 .
NASA: p p. 158 , 160 (right), 163 (left), 178 , 231 .
NASA Glenn Research Center (NASA-GRC): p. 160 (left).
NASA/JPL-Caltech: p. 148 .
NASA/JPL/DLR: p. 146 .
National Institutes of Health: p. 260 (left).
National Maritime Museum: p. 118 (left).
National Museum of Fine Arts, Sweden: p. 263 .
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration: p p. 248 , 375 , 499 .
National Science Foundation: p. 233 .
New York Public Library: p. 260 (right).
Old Farmer s Almanac : p. 223 .
Sergey Prokudin-Gorsky: p. 150 .
Dustin M. Ramsey: p. 482 .
Shutterstock: p p. 2 , 6 , 9 , 34 , 36 , 42 , 43 , 45 , 47 , 48 , 58 , 61 , 63 , 66 , 69 , 76 , 82 , 89 , 93 , 101 , 107 , 121 , 124 , 126 , 128 , 132 , 134 , 137 , 143 , 153 , 155 , 163 (right), 166 , 179 , 184 , 187 , 192 , 193 , 196 , 201 , 202 , 205 , 208 , 219 , 220 , 229 , 238 , 242 , 244 , 247 , 251 , 254 , 255 , 267 , 270 , 274 , 276 , 279 , 283 , 285 , 289 , 291 , 293 , 301 , 308 , 309 , 313 , 337 , 339 , 341 , 344 , 345 , 349 , 351 , 354 , 358 , 359 , 367 , 369 , 371 , 378 , 381 , 384 , 387 , 389 , 393 , 394 , 396 , 399 , 401 , 404 , 406 , 409 , 411 , 413 , 419 , 422 , 424 , 428 , 432 , 435 , 438 , 442 , 445 , 446 , 448 , 452 , 454 , 457 , 459 , 469 , 471 , 472 , 476 , 481 , 484 , 487 , 492 , 494 , 497 , 504 , 506 , 509 , 511 , 513 , 515 , 517 , 521 , 523 , 540 , 542 , 545 , 547 , 551 , 553 , 556 , 561 , 563 .
Smithsonian Institution Archives Collection: p. 171 .
Speeding Cars (Wikicommons): p. 19 (top).
Amber Stuver: p. 74 .
Tamiko Thiel: p. 80 .
Yunuskhuja Tuygunkhujaev: p. 38 .
Tyomitch (Wikicommons): p. 538 .
U.S. Air Force: p. 68 .
U.S. Department of the Treasury: p. 218 .
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: p. 490 .
U.S. Geological Service: p. 182 .
U.S. Navy: p. 500 .
Stefan Zachow: p. 12 .
Public domain: p p. 16 , 31 , 40 (right), 49 , 78 , 111 , 117 , 118 (right), 124 (inset), 190 , 299 , 305 , 321 , 324 , 326 , 335 , 416 , 464 , 530 (top and bottom), 558 .
Introduction
In the twenty-five years since the first edition of The Handy Science Answer Book was published in 1994, innumerable discoveries and advancements have been made in all fields of the biological and physical sciences. These accomplishments range from the microscopic to the global-from gene sequencing and CRISPR technology to advances in particle and quantum physics to the discovery of exoplanets. As a society, we have increased our awareness of the environment and the sustainability of our resources.
This newly updated fifth edition continues to be an educational resource that is both informative and enjoyable. The questions are interesting, unusual, frequently asked, or difficult to answer. Statistical data have been updated for this new edition. Both of us are pleased and excited about the various changes, including additions and improvements in this new edition, which continues to add to and enhance the original publication presented by the Science and Technology Department of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.
GENERAL SCIENCE

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
What is science?
The field of science involves the observation, description, and experimentation of the natural world in an attempt to explain the whys and hows of our world. It is a way of thinking and an ongoing method of looking at the world. Science is a way of discovering how the world works by using a set of rules devised by scientists.
Who were the earliest scientists?
Inquisitive individuals have always attempted to explain the physical world. The early Babylonians and Egyptians were aware of natural phenomena and events. Many times, they tried to explain these events in terms of their gods. The early Greeks were among the first people to look for explanations of natural phenomena based on discovery and knowledge. Greek philosopher Thales (c. 624-c. 547 B.C.E .) is often credited as being the first to look for an answer to the question, What is the world made of? Although most of the writings of Thales have been lost, we know he proposed water as the single substance from which everything in the world was made.
Who is considered the most influential scientist in the history and development of Western science?
Most experts seem to agree that Isaac Newton (1642-1727) is the most influential figure in the history of Western science. He was considered a great intellectual in his lifetime, and the admiration within the scientific community continues today after some three hundred years.
Why is Isaac Newton also considered the father of modern science?
Isaac Newton earned his place as the father of modern science by totally changing the way science was viewed in the evolution of human understanding of the universe, especially regarding his concepts and theories of motion, gravity, and mechanics.
What other scientists have been particularly influential in the history and development of science through the ages?
Many scholars regard the following list as individuals who have played a major role in the history and development of science:
1. Isaac Newton (1642-1727) and the Newtonian Revolution
2. Albert Einstein (1879-1955) and Twentieth-Century Physics including the Theory of Relativity
3. Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) and the New Science
4. Johannes Kepler (1571-1630) and Motion of the Planets
5. Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1543) and the Heliocentric Universe
6. Niels Bohr (1885-1962) and the Atom
7. Antoine-Laurent Lavoisier (1743-1794) and the Revolution in Chemistry
8. Charles Darwin (1809-1882) and Evolution
9. Louis Pasteur (1822-1895) and the Germ Theory of Disease
10. Sigmund Freud (1856-1939) and Psychology of the Unconscious

Sir Isaac Newton was the central figure in illuminating to the world how key physical laws of the universe operate.
What are some of the historical time periods of science?
The historical periods in the development of science include:
1. Antiquity: The period of time in which practical goals, such as establishing a reliable calendar or determining how to cure a variety of illnesses, existed simultaneously with abstract investigations known as natural philosophy.
2. Medieval Science: Few major contributions in fields of science occurred during the Medieval years. Exceptions were the emergence of science in the first establishe