The Elements: A Very Short Introduction - Softcover

Ball, Philip

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0192840991 ISBN 13: 9780192840998

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2004

Synopsis

This Very Short Introduction is an exciting and non-traditional approach to understanding the terminology, properties, and classification of chemical elements. It traces the history and cultural impact of the elements on humankind, and examines why people have long sought to identify the substances around them. The book includes chapters on particular elements such as gold, iron, and oxygen, showing how they shaped culture and technology. Looking beyond the Periodic Table, the author examines our relationship with matter, from the uncomplicated vision of the Greek philosophers, who believed there were four elements--earth, air, fire, and water--to the work of modern-day scientists in creating elements such as hassium and meitnerium. Packed with anecdotes, The Elements is a highly engaging and entertaining exploration of the fundamental question: what is the world made from?

About this title

About the Author

Philip Ball is a science writer and a consultant editor for Nature and the author of Designing the Molecular World, The Self-Made Tapestry, H20: A Biography of Water, and Stories of the Invisible: A Guided Tour of Molecules.

Review

"A delight of a book.... Elegantly written...far-reaching, entertaining and salted with anecdote.... It could become a classic."--New Scientist

"Ball brings the periodic table to life."--Discover

"Philip Ball's book is an excellent introduction."--Chemistry and Industry

"The book contains some delightful anecdotes."--Times Higher Educational Supplement (London)

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0192840991
• ISBN 13: 9780192840998
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 192