Destiny or Chance: Our Solar System and its Place in the Cosmos

Taylor, Stuart Ross

ISBN 10: 0521785219 / ISBN 13: 9780521785211

Published by Cambridge University Press, 2000

Very Good condition. A copy that may have a few cosmetic defects. May also contain a few markings such as an owner's name, short gifter's inscription or light stamp. Seller Inventory # K07F-00986

Synopsis:

Written by a leading planetary scientist, this engaging book tells the remarkable story of how our solar system came into existence and provides an expert tour of the Earth, its planetary neighbors and other planetary systems. In a whirlwind adventure, we explore how the formation of mighty Jupiter dominated the solar system, why Mars is so small, where comets come from, how rings form around planets, why asteroids exist and why Pluto isn't a planet at all. En route, we discover the role of chance events in shaping the course of the history of our solar system. Dramatic collisions, for example, caused the tilts and spins of the planets, the extinction of the dinosaurs and the rise of man. Finally, we look at how suitable Earth is for harboring life, what other planetary systems look like and whether we are alone in the cosmos. For all those interested in understanding our solar system and its place in the cosmos, this is a lucid and compelling read. Stuart Taylor is the recipient of numerous academic awards, including the Norman L. Bowen Award from the American Geophysical Union for his important contributions to our understanding of the origins and early history of the Earth and Moon. In 1997, Asteroid 5670 was named Rosstaylor in his honor. He is the author of Solar System Evolution (Cambridge, 1992).

Book Description: Written by a leading planetary scientist, this book tells the remarkable story of how our solar system came into existence. It provides a fast-paced, non-technical and expert tour of our new understanding of the Earth, its planetary neighbours and other planetary systems. En route we discover that chance events have shaped the course of the history of our solar system. Dramatic collisions, for example, caused the tilts and spins of the planets, the extinction of the dinosaurs and the rise of man. For all those interested in understanding our solar system and its place in the cosmos, this is a lucid and compelling read.

Bibliographic Details

Title: Destiny or Chance: Our Solar System and its ...
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Publication Date: 2000
Binding: Soft cover
Condition: Very Good