Science & Nature Books

Book SynopsisSunday Times BestsellerPassionate and well-researched' TatlerA must-read' IndependentA social history of Labradors, and how they have become the world's most beloved dogs, by writer, presenter and long-time dog lover Ben Fogle.Labradors are the most popular breed of dog in the world. Not only a great family companion, they also excel at hunting, tracking, retrieving, guiding and rescuing. But where did the breed originally come from? How did it develop? When did black, yellow and chocolate Labradors first appear? Did they really all come from Labrador in Canada and are they really all related to just one dog?In this first history of the Labrador, Ben Fogle goes in search of what makes Labradors so special. Their extraordinary companionship, intelligence, work ethic and loyalty is captured by Ben as he weaves the story of the breed into his own story of his beloved Inca.Ben visits Canada, discovers hair-raising stories of early Labrador exploits and uncovers stories of RNIB Labradors anTrade Review‘Passionate and well-researched, this book will make you wag your tail with delight. Woof!’ Tatler ‘A must-read for anyone with an interest in the history of man's relationship to dogs, regardless of breed, and Fogle's typical adventure-style storytelling keeps the narrative light and entertaining.’ Independent Further praise for Ben Fogle: ‘Funny, entertaining and really rather inspiring, too’ Daily Mail 'A great escapade told with refreshing frankness.' Independent on Sunday

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Book SynopsisMarshall McLuhan was a Canadian educator, philosopher and scholar - a professor of English Literature, a literary critic and a communications theorist. McLuhan's work is viewed as one of the cornerstones of the study of media theory. McLuhan is known for coining the expressions 'the medium is the message' and the 'global village'.

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Book SynopsisIntroduction to General Relativity and Cosmology gives undergraduate students an overview of the fundamental ideas behind the geometric theory of gravitation and spacetime. Through pointers on how to modify and generalise Einstein's theory to enhance understanding, it provides a link between standard textbook content and current research in the field.Chapters present complicated material practically and concisely, initially dealing with the mathematical foundations of the theory of relativity, in particular differential geometry. This is followed by a discussion of the Einstein field equations and their various properties. Also given is analysis of the important Schwarzschild solutions, followed by application of general relativity to cosmology. Questions with fully worked answers are provided at the end of each chapter to aid comprehension and guide learning. This pared down textbook is specifically designed for new students looking for a workable, simple presentation of some of the key theories in modern physics and mathematics.

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Book Synopsis ‘Probably the most readable, exciting and authoritative writer on science we have. A new Lawrence Krauss book always goes to the top of the curious mind’s wish list.’ Stephen Fry “I loved the fight scenes and the sex scenes were excellent.” (Eric Idle) 'In the span of a century, physics progressed from skepticism that atoms were real to equations so precise we can predict properties of subatomic particles to the tenth decimal place. Lawrence Krauss rightly places this achievement among the greatest of all stories, and his book—at once engaging, poetic and scholarly—tells the story with a scientist’s penetrating insight and a writer’s masterly craft.' (Brian Greene, author of The Elegant Universe, and Director, Center for Theoretical Physics, Columbia University) 'Unlike some very clever scientists, Lawrence Krauss is not content to bask on the Mount Olympus of modTrade Review“I loved the fight scenes and the sex scenes were excellent.” -- Eric Idle'In the span of a century, physics progressed from skepticism that atoms were real to equations so precise we can predict properties of subatomic particles to the tenth decimal place. Lawrence Krauss rightly places this achievement among the greatest of all stories, and his book—at once engaging, poetic and scholarly—tells the story with a scientist’s penetrating insight and a writer’s masterly craft.' -- Brian Greene, author of The Elegant Universe, and Director, Center for Theoretical Physics, Columbia University"Unlike some very clever scientists, Lawrence Krauss is not content to bask on the Mount Olympus of modern physics. A great educator as well as a great physicist, he wants to pull others up the rarefied heights to join him. But unlike some science educators, he doesn’t dumb down. In Einstein’s words, he makes it 'as simple as possible but no simpler.'" -- Richard Dawkins, author of The Magic of Reality“In every debate I’ve done with theologians and religious believers their knock-out final argument always comes in the form of two questions: Why is there something rather than nothing? and Why are we here? The presumption is that if science provides no answers then there must be a God. But God or no, we still want answers. In A Universe From Nothing Lawrence Krauss, one of the biggest thinkers of our time, addressed the first question with verve, and in The Greatest Story Ever Told he tackles the second with elegance. Both volumes should be placed in hotel rooms across America, in the drawer next to the Gideon Bible." -- Michael Shermer, Publisher Skeptic magazine, columnist Scientific American, Presidential Fellow Chapman University, author The Moral Arc."A Homeric tale of science, history, and philosophy revealing how we learned so much about the universe and its tiniest parts." -- Sheldon Glashow, Nobel Laureate, 1979 in physics“The Greatest Story Ever Told—So Far ranges from Galileo to the LHC and beyond. It's accessible, illuminating, and surprising—an ideal guide for anyone interested in understanding our accidental universe.” -- Elizabeth Kolbert, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Sixth Extinction“College students, hippies, squares, Christians, Muslims, democrats, republicans, libertarians, theists, even atheists—all of us—sit around BS-ing like: ‘So, how did all this, I mean everything, all of us, the whole universe, you know, man, everything, how did this all get here?’ While we were doing that, Lawrence Krauss and people like him were doing the work to figure it out. Then Krauss wrote this great book about it. ‘Wow, man, you mean, like we’re getting closer to really knowing? I guess we’ll have to go back to talking about politics and sex.’” -- Penn Jillette, author of Presto!“Discovering the bedrock nature of physical reality ranks as one of humanity’s greatest collective achievements. This book gives a fine account of the main ideas and how they emerged. Krauss is himself close to the field, and can offer insights into the personalities who have led the key advances. A practiced and skilled writer, he succeeds in making the physics ‘as simple as possible but no simpler.’ I don’t know a better book on this subject.” -- Martin Rees, author of Just Six Numbers“It is an exhilarating experience to be led through this fascinating story, from Galileo to the Standard Model and the Higgs boson and beyond, with lucid detail and insight, illuminating vividly not only the achievements themselves but also the joy of creative thought and discovery, enriched with vignettes of the remarkable individuals who paved the way. It amply demonstrates that the discovery that ‘nature really follows the simple and elegant rules intuited by the 20th- and 21st-century versions of Plato’s philosophers’ is one of the most astonishing achievements of the human intellect.” -- Noam Chomsky, Institute Professor & Professor of Linguistics (Emeritus), MIT“Charming... Krauss has written an account with sweep and verve that shows the full development of our ideas about the makeup of the world around us... A great romp.” -- Walter Gilbert, Nobel Award, Chemistry, 1980“History of science with an edge—humorous, personal, passionate, yet intellectually serious and authoritative.” -- Frank Wilczek, Nobel Laureate, Physics"Krauss beautifully explains how our refusal to believe that there are unknowable cosmic truths has rewarded humanity with brilliantly precise answers to puzzles previously obscured by the fog of dogmatic assurance… The scope of this book is truly impressive." -- Science Magazine"A masterful blend of history, modern physics, and cosmic perspective that empowers the reader to not only embrace our understanding of the universe, but also revel in what remains to be discovered." -- Neil deGrasse Tyson, American Museum of Natural History"A rich, definitely not-dumbed-down history of physics... An admirable complement to the author's previous book and equally satisfying for those willing to read carefully." -- Kirkus Reviews"This truly is the greatest story: how the universe arose, what it’s made of, how it works. Krauss is a warm and authoritative guide to what future generations will surely say is one of our species’ greatest accomplishments." -- Steven Pinker, Johnstone Professor of Psychology, Harvard University, and author of The Language Instinct and The Blank Slate"In confident...prose, Krauss tells a story that both celebrates and explores science. Through it, he reminds readers why scientists build such complicated machinery and push the boundaries of the quantum world when nothing makes sense: “For no more practical reason than to celebrate and explore the beauty of nature.”" -- Publishers Weekly"The story of reality—or at least as we understand it—this book is a testament to perseverance, a riveting account of dogged scientific effort to comprehend the fundamental forces of nature. Krauss (director, Origins Project, Arizona State Univ.; Fear of Physics) has a knack for making complex concepts accessible to lay readers who are willing to put in time and energy… A must-read for anyone who enjoyed Krauss’s previous titles, especially A Universe from Nothing, and those interested in delving into the history of science." -- Library Journal

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Book SynopsisMost of us think of Darwin at work on The Beagle, taking inspiration for his theory of evolution from his travels in the Galapagos. But Darwin published his Origin of Species nearly thirty years after his voyages and most of his labours in that time were focused on experimenting with and observing plants at his house in Kent. He was particularly interested in carnivorous and climbing plants, and in pollination and the evolution of flowers. Ken Thompson sees Darwin as a brilliant and revolutionary botanist, whose observations and theories were far ahead of his time - and are often only now being confirmed and extended by high-tech modern research. Like Darwin, he is fascinated and amazed by the powers of plants - particularly their Triffid-like aspects of movement, hunting and 'plant intelligence'. This is a much needed book that re-establishes Darwin as a pioneering botanist, whose close observations of plants were crucial to his theories of evolution.Trade ReviewVivid account ... with a light touch and a welcome sense of humour, Thompson reveals Darwin as an acute observer of flora as well as fauna -- Jane Shilling * Daily Mail *Lively and punchy ... Thompson's arguments are powerful and his examples are fascinating * The Sunday Times *Thompson makes his case in a lively, readable style ... Better yet, he bolsters his argument with plenty of citations from the scientific literature, which adds welcome heft. * New Scientist *'Fascinating, provocative... Ken Thompson presents a stimulating challenge to our perceptions of nature' -- George Monbiot

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Book SynopsisA new understanding of the role of myth and archetypal principles in our lives, based on the insights of a new cosmology.Trade Review'The radically expanded cosmological perspective that Keiron Le Grice has set out in The Archetypal Cosmos reflects a paradigm shift of enormous relevance for the future of psychology and psychotherapy. Le Grice has performed an invaluable service in carefully thinking through and articulating a spiritually informed view of the cosmos that integrates these developments … A lucid and groundbreaking synthesis.' — Stanislav Grof, author of Psychology of the Future and When the Impossible Happens'Le Grice has a gift, perhaps even a genius, for extremely clear assessments, expositions, and formulations of complex ideas -- all grounded in a deeper vision of things, which makes this clarity possible.'-- Richard Tarnas, author of The Passion of the Western Mind and Cosmos and Psyche'Keiron Le Grice's book is a fantastic achievement, combining complex theories from leading figures in psychology and the physical sciences -- especially Carl Jung, Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, and David Bohm. Le Grice's original synthesis demonstrates how profoundly these figures belong together in a new unified world view. With both the excellence of the writing and the high-powered nature of the ideas, The Archetypal Cosmos is destined to be an essential element in the contemporary planetary canon.'-- Brian Swimme, Professor of Cosmology, California Institute of Integral Studies'Humanity has much to gain from this synthesis between planetary cycles and the dynamics and patterns of human experience.'--Ruth Parnell, Nexus, April/May 2011.'The book takes the reader on an epic journey through many contrasting landscapes of thought.'The book is a brilliant synthesis of new ideas, and readers will have to decide for themselves whether the argument is ultimately compelling. It is certainly stated in a comprehensive manner.'--David Lorimer, Scientific Medical Network Review, Summer 2011'This is a book of considerable importance and relevance to the times we live in; for what it does is to bridge and overcome the longstanding historic gap between inner and outer worlds, thereby demolishing the West's Cartesian dualism in all its aspects. No mean thing, to put it lightly; and in doing this it heralds a new age which its author believes has already begun.'Keiron Le Grice's The Archetypal Cosmos has an immense amount to offer, having given this reviewer much food for thought.'--Jack Herbert, Temenos Academy

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Book SynopsisBook of the Year in The Economist, Guardian, New Statesman, Wall Street Journal and New York Times.Shortlisted for the Duff Cooper Prize, the Elizabeth Longford Prize for Historical Biography and the British Society for the History of Science Hughes Prize.'A wonderful book about one of the most important, brilliant and flawed scientists of the 20th century.' Peter Frankopan'Superb' Matt Ridley, The Times'Fascinating... The best Haldane biography yet.' New York TimesJ.B.S. Haldane's life was rich and strange, never short on genius, never lacking for drama. He is best remembered as a geneticist who revolutionized our understanding of evolution, but his peers thought him a polymath; one student called him 'the last man who knew all there was to be known'.Beginning in the 1930s, Haldane was also a staunch Communist - a stance that enhanced his public profile, led him into trouble, and even drew suspicions that he was spying for the Soviets. He wrote copiously on science and politics for the layman, in newspapers and magazines, and he gave speeches in town halls and on the radio, all of which made him, in his day, as famous in Britain as Einstein. Arthur C. Clarke called Haldane 'the most brilliant science popularizer of his generation'. He frequently narrated aspects of his life: of his childhood, as the son of a famous scientist; of his time in the trenches in the First World War and in Spain during the Civil War; of his experiments upon himself; of his secret research for the British Admiralty; of his final move to India, in 1957. A Dominant Character unpacks Haldane's boisterous life in detail, and it examines the questions he raised about the intersections of genetics and politics - questions that resonate all the more strongly today.Trade ReviewDeliciously full of danger, adventure and scandal. * 'Science Books of the Year', Guardian *Superb... Subramanian does a masterly job of summarising a rich and rough life. He uses sharp analogies and arresting images... Haldane deserves a biographer who is eloquent, intelligent, fair, but unsparing and as good at explaining science as politics. Not an easy combination, but he has got one. -- Matt Ridley * The Times *A master biographer brings this original, impulsive and politically misguided figure into sharp focus in this rare account of intellect and temperament in action. * 'Top Ten Books of 2020'. Wall Street Journal *It's hard to recommend a single science book from 2020, but the one I've kept returning to, mentally, is Samanth Subramanian's A Dominant Character... Beautifully written, it's a reminder that no scientist can be extracted from his or her time. * Laura Spinney, 'Books of the Year', New Statesman *Fascinating... The best Haldane biography yet. * New York Times *Samanth Subramanian is a crisp, elegant writer who has produced a compelling biography of this dazzling man. A Dominant Character is perfectly paced... It can be read with the utmost pleasure by everyone who likes to admire a fine intellect in action and to see respect paid to outstanding intelligence. -- Richard Davenport-Hines * Wall Street Journal *A wonderful book about one of the most important, brilliant and flawed scientists of the 20th century - that explains much not only about J.B.S. Haldane but about the complex times he lived in. -- Peter Frankopan, bestselling author of THE SILK ROADSEven if there had been no scientific legacy, the rich and at times outrageous life of J.B.S. Haldane would justify a biography... Intelligent and energetic. * Sunday Times *Sympathetic and astute * The Economist *The 20th century British geneticist J.B.S. Haldane remains one of the most influential scientists of modern times. And this remarkable biography by Samanth Subramanian, which brings to life Haldane at his brilliant, unpredictable, outspoken, visionary best, will make you see exactly why his light still shines so brightly today. -- Deborah Blum, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of THE POISON SQUADA wholly delightful, even brilliant, exploration of the scientific mind. Subramanian brings alive J.B.S. Haldane's rollicking, unbelievable life journey from privileged English childhood to Indian asylum. He writes with grace and confidence about both the science and the man, a "Darwinian preacher" whose life explains why scientists in our age of artificial intelligence and revolutionary genetics need to think politically. A Dominant Character is a captivating story of prickly genius, sexual scandal, and radical politics. -- Kai Bird, Pulitzer Prize-winning co-author of AMERICAN PROMETHEUSA marvellous, comprehensive, and entertaining biography of J.B.S. Haldane, who made major contributions to many fields. His biggest impact was on evolutionary biology, as a major founder of the theory of population genetics. Subramanian has done impressive research on Haldane's background, scientific contributions, and political controversies - this will be the definitive work on his life from now on. -- Joe Felsenstein, Professor Emeritus of Genome Sciences and of Biology, University of WashingtonExcellent.... Full of insight and felicitous writing. -- David Brown * American Scholar *If you were looking for a model protagonist for a ripping yarn, you could do a lot worse than John Burdon Sanderson Haldane... A Dominant Character turns on the Lysenko affair, examining how scientists wedded to both their work and their political ideals can be forced to choose between them. * Literary Review *Insightful...This portrait of a brilliant, egotistical contrarian illustrates how science and politics can collide, a subject with ample relevance for the modern world. * Publishers Weekly *A rich biography of a central figure in the 20th-century genetics revolution... Succeeds superbly. * Kirkus Reviews *Captures Haldane's outsize character, productive scientific career, and communist convictions.... Explaining clearly Haldane's science and discerning astutely Haldane's personality, Subramanian delivers a well-judged biography. * Booklist *Attempting to encompass the entirety of the polymath that was J.B.S. Haldane (1892-1964) is no easy task.... Social historians will appreciate the emphasis on the man and his politics, over an emphasis solely on the science, in this excellent biography. * Library Journal *Balanced and modern ... [A Dominant Character] should prove engaging to readers interested in the birth of genetics and in the intersection of science and political belief. * Science *A fascinating portrait of Haldane's life. Subramanian succeeds in capturing his public life, fame, and influence, while giving readers a sense of Haldane as a person and as a groundbreaking scientist. * American Scientist *Table of Contents1: The Scientific Method 2: The Deep End 3: Synthesis 4: Red Haldane 5: The War at Home 6: India 7: Ten Thousand Years

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Book SynopsisFROM THE AUTHOR OF THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER,THE HIDDEN LIFE OF TREESA simultaneously stimulating and soothing blend of nature writing and science Strongly encourages tree hugging for our own, human sake' Guardian Summer Reads 2021A powerful return to the forest, where trees have heartbeats and roots are like brains that extend underground. Where the colour green calms us, and the forest sharpens our senses.In The Heartbeat of Trees, renowned forester Peter Wohlleben draws on new scientific discoveries to show how humans are deeply connected to the natural world. In an era of climate change, many of us fear we've lost our connection to nature, but Wohlleben is convinced that age-old ties linking humans to the forest remain alive and intact. We just have to know where to look.Drawing on science and cutting-edge research, The Heartbeat of Trees reveals the profound interactions humans can have with nature, exploring:the language of the forestthe consciousness of plantsand the eroding Trade Review‘A simultaneously stimulating and soothing blend of nature writing and science’ Guardian ‘Wohlleben confronts [climate change] directly. He is trenchant in his critique of tree plantations and wood-pellet-power plants, which claim to help the climate but, he argues, end up destabilizing it further’ New Yorker ‘[A] detailed, easy-to-read summary of what research has shown us about “the language of the forest, the consciousness of plants, and the eroding boundary between flora and fauna.” In this excellent and updated sequel to his The Hidden Life of Trees,[…] Wohlleben writes beautifully about the reciprocal bonds we can form with trees and all sorts of nature’ Psychology Today ‘It’s hard to dispute the book’s overall message; namely, that time spent in nature can serve as both a balm for anxiety and a bulwark against despair’ Globe and Mail ‘[An] eclectic look at humanity’s relationships with trees… Nature-minded readers will enjoy this episodic deep dive’ Publishers Weekly ‘Drawing on scientific evidence and his many years of experience, [Peter Wohlleben] extolls the wonders of the forest. A persuasive invitation to get outside and bathe in nature, perfect for tree huggers and fans of the author’s other books’ Kirkus Reviews ‘A return to the wonders of trees’ Booklist ‘[The Heartbeat of Trees] showcases the interconnectedness of humans and nature … Wohlleben takes a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating history, science, medicine, and mysticism. He balances poetic descriptions with analytical thoughts; beauty is at the heart of both. The result is a text that is full of wonder and insatiable curiosity, and that invites love for humanity and the natural world’ Foreword Reviews ‘[Like] a walk in the woods…[Wohlleben] urges hope, not despair, about our environmental malaise. [The Heartbeat of Trees] will appeal to fans of popular science and anyone curious about natural history’ Library Journal

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Book SynopsisFrom triangles, rotations and power laws, to fractals, cones and curves, bestselling author Alex Bellos takes you on a journey of mathematical discovery with his signature wit, engaging stories and limitless enthusiasm. As he narrates a series of eye-opening encounters with lively personalities all over the world, Alex demonstrates how numbers have come to be our friends, are fascinating and extremely accessible, and how they have changed our world. He turns even the dreaded calculus into an easy-to-grasp mathematical exposition, and sifts through over 30,000 survey submissions to reveal the world's favourite number. In Germany, he meets the engineer who designed the first roller-coaster loop, whilst in India he joins the world's highly numerate community at the International Congress of Mathematicians. He explores the wonders behind the Game of Life program, and explains mathematical logic, growth and negative numbers. Stateside, he hangs out with a private detective in Oregon and mTrade ReviewSee, numbers don't have to be scary * Evan Davis *Another sparkling romp through the world of numbers, with the inimitable Alex Bellos as your friendly, informed, and crystal-clear guide. A brilliant successor to Alex in Numberland * Ian Stewart *To read Alex Through the Looking-Glass is to have one’s mind quietly but continually blown with the knowledge that the world, so seemingly complex, is constantly conforming to patterns ... Bright children, bored with the way maths is presented, will find plenty here to jolly up their calculus classes, while those with an in-depth mathematical education may still find new gems * Sunday Express *Alex Bellos brings the quirks and eccentricities of numbers wonderfully to life ... Each chapter has its fair share of intriguing stories, which are always followed by plenty of equations and detailed explanations. In many ways, Bellos’s books remind me of the writing of Martin Gardiner, who was one of the most prolific recreational mathematicians of the 20th century and who died in 2010 * Simon Singh, Observer *The great moments in maths, it seems, are not contemplations of chilly glories, but small, satisfying discoveries, like getting a particularly clever cryptic crossword clue, it is this friendly approach to numbers that makes Bellos so approachable; he has a way of walking the reader through a problem ... If anything, Looking Glass is a better work than Numberland – it feels more immediate, more relevant and fun * Daily Telegraph *Fresh, fascinating and endlessly charming. A splendiferous book altogether * Tim Harford, author of The Undercover Economist Strikes Back *

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Book SynopsisIncludes a preface and epilogue that brings Wilderness and the American Mind into dialogue with contemporary debates about wilderness. This is a study of changing attitudes toward wilderness during American history, as well as the origins of the environmental and conservation movements.Trade Review"One of those rare works that combines exemplary scholarship and readability."—Washington Post Book World (on an earlier edition)

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Book SynopsisWinner of the British Psychological Society Book Award for Popular PsychologyPsychologists have long been aware that most people tend to maintain an irrationally positive outlook on life. In fact, optimism may be crucial to our existence. Tali Sharot's original cognitive research demonstrates in surprising ways the biological basis for optimism. In this fascinating exploration, she takes an in-depth, clarifying look at how the brain generates hope and what happens when it fails; how the brains of optimists and pessimists differ; why we are terrible at predicting what will make us happy; how anticipation and dread affect us; and how our optimistic illusions affect our financial, professional, and emotional decisions.With its cutting-edge science and its wide-ranging and accessible narrative, The Optimism Bias provides us with startling new insight into how the workings of the brain create our hopes and dreams.Trade ReviewLucid, engaging and cutting-edge... a must-read for anyone interested in imagining the future. - David Eagleman, Neuroscientist and bestselling author of Sum and Incognito.An intelligent written look into why most people take an optimistic view on life...stimulating discussion...in easily understood language...fascinating trip into why we prefer to remain hopeful about our future and ourselves. * New York Journal of Books *Very enjoyable, highly original and packed with eye-opening insight, this is a beautifully written book that really brings psychology alive. - Simon Baron-Cohen, Cambridge University Professor and author of Zero Degrees of Empathy and The Science of Evil.If you read her story, you'll get a much better grip on how we function in it. I'm optimistic about that. * TIME *Her fascinating book offers compelling evidence for the neural basis of optimism and what it all means. * Scientific American Book Club *Lively, conversational...A well-told, heartening report from neuroscience's front lines. * Kirkus *A book I'd suggest to anyone. * Forbes *Read it and cheer. It's important to your longevity. * Examiner *Most readers will turn to the last page not only buoyed by hope but also aware of the sources and benefits of that hope. * Booklist *What a treat. A charming, engaging and accessible book written by a scientist who knows how to tell a story. - Richard Thaler, author of NudgeEngaging....Sharot studies optimisim as the neural level and knows her subject well. * The Psychiatrist *Fascinating... Even if you're a dedicated cynic, you might be surprised to learn that your brain is wearing rose-colored glasses, whether you like it or not. - NPRAn insightful, Oliver Sacks-y first book. - The Village VoiceOnce I started reading The Optimism Bias, I could not put it down. - Positive Psychology News DailyA fascinating yet accessible exploration of how and why our brains construct a positive outlook on life. - BrainPickings.orgFascinating and fun to read... Provides lucid accounts of [Sharot's] often ingenious experiments. - BBC Focus

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Book SynopsisWhat is learning? How does it take place? What happens when it goes wrong? The topic of learning has been central to the development of the science of psychology since its inception. Without learning there can be no memory, no language and no intelligence. Indeed it is rather difficult to imagine a part of psychology, or neuroscience, that learning does not touch upon. In this Very Short Introduction Mark Haselgrove describes learning from the perspective of associative theories of classical and instrumental conditioning, and considers why these are the dominant, and best described analyses of learning in contemporary psychology. Tracing the origins of these theories, he discusses the techniques used to study learning in both animals and humans, and considers the importance of learning for animal behaviour and survival.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of Contents1: What is learning (and how do we study it?) 2: What is learned during learning? 3: The surprising thing about learning 4: Maps and clocks: Learning about space and time 5: When learning goes wrong 6: Learning from others 7: Surely there is more to learning than that Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisFungi form an entire biological kingdom, and represent a great diversity of organisms. They are found in the soil, in the air, and on the surfaces of plants and animals. In this Very Short Introduction, Nicholas P. Money highlights the various effects of fungi on living organisms and considers their broader significance on our planet.Trade ReviewWitty and highly readable... When it comes to writing about fungi, Nik Money truly is the ultimate fun guide! * Botany One *Informative and fascinating * Steve Craggs, Northern Echo *Nicholas Money's Fungi: A Very Short Introduction just brims with passion for its subject. I read once that the perfect candidate for any professional job interview is one who exudes "cool professionalism, with sparkle". Nicholas Money's book on Fungi is the paper version of that ideal. * The Victoria Welch Science blog *Table of ContentsREFERENCES; INDEX

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Book SynopsisIn The Nature of Technology, ground-breaking economist W. Brian Arthur explores the extraordinary way in which the technology that surrounds us and allows us to live our modern lives has actually been developed. Rather than coming from a series of one-off inventions, almost all the technology we use today comes from previous developments: these technologies are not being created, but are instead evolving.With fascinating examples, from laser printers to powerplants, Arthur reveals how our own problem-solving skills and creative vision can evolve alongside these technologies, and how this understanding can even improve our understanding of the wider world.Trade ReviewA profoundly social view of innovation * The New York Times *Deeply analytical and thought-provoking * Good Book Guide *Entertaining and informative ... a thought-provoking book * Literary Review *

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Book SynopsisBrian Greene''s The Hidden Reality: Parallel Universes and the Deep Laws of the Cosmos explores our most current scientific understanding of the universe, the ''string theory'' that might hold the key to unifying nature''s laws, and our continuing quest to know more. There was a time when ''universe'' meant all there is. Everything. Yet, as physicist Brian Greene''s extraordinary book shows, ours may be just one universe among many, like endless reflections in a mirror. He takes us on a captivating exploration of parallel worlds - from a multiverse where an infinite number of your doppelgangers are reading this sentence, to vast oceans of bubble universes and even multiverses made of mathematics - showing just how much of reality''s true nature may be hidden within them. ''If extraterrestrials land tomorrow and demand to know what the human mind is capable of accomplishing ... hand them a copy of this book''  The New York Times Book Review ''A writer of exceptional clarity and charm ... every chapter opens level after level of previously unimaginable, mind-expanding realities''  Oliver Sacks ''The book serves well as an introduction to the multiverse and will open up many people''s eyes''  John Gribbin Brian Greene is well known to many fans as a populariser of theoretical physics. He is the author of the bestselling books about string theory, The Elegant Universe, which was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for nonfiction, The Fabric of the Cosmos, and The Hidden Reality. Educated at Harvard and Oxford, he has taught at both Harvard and Cornell and has been Professor of Physics and Mathematics at Columbia University since 1996.Trade ReviewBrian Greene's book The Hidden Reality is a tour de force of one of the most controversial areas of modern science - the possibility that there are multiple universes... Greene's ability as a populariser has matured with each new publication and this latest offering is his best yet -- Alastair Gunn * Sky at Night *Exciting and rewarding ... captures and engages the imagination ... Greene has a gift for elucidating big ideas * New York Times *If extraterrestrials landed tomorrow and demanded to know what the human mind is capable of accomplishing, we could do worse than to hand them a copy of this book * New York Times Book Review *The book serves well as an introduction to the multiverse and will open up many people's eyes -- John GribbinEvery chapter opens level after level of previously unimaginable, mind-expanding realities -- Oliver Sacks

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Book SynopsisNow a major motion picture starring Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking and Felicity Jones as his wife Jane. It chronicles their relationship, from his early development of ALS to his success in physics In this compelling memoir, Jane Hawking, Stephen Hawking’s first wife, relates the inside story of their extraordinary marriage. As Stephen’s academic renown soared, his body was collapsing under the assaults of motor-neuron disease, and Jane’s candid account of trying to balance his twenty-four-hour care with the needs of their growing family will be inspirational to anyone dealing with family illness. The inner strength of the author and the self-evident character and achievements of her husband make for an incredible tale that is always presented with unflinching honesty; the author’s candour is no less evident when the marriage finally ends in a high-profile meltdown, with Stephen leaving Jane for one of his nurses, while Jane goes on to marry an old family friend. In this exceptionally open, moving and often funny memoir, Jane Hawking confronts not only the acutely complicated and painful dilemmas of her first marriage, but also the fault lines exposed in a relationship by the pervasive effects of fame and wealth. The result is a book about optimism, love and change that will resonate with readers everywhere.Trade ReviewA great read. * Daily Mail *Stephen Hawking may think in 11 dimensions, but his first wife has learnt to love in several. * The Sunday Times *What becomes of time when a marriage unravels? And what becomes of the woman who has located her whole self within its sphere? For Jane Hawking, the physics of love and loss are set in a private universe. * The Guardian *Jane describes the final, painful years of her marriage in candid detail. * The Independent *Jane Hawking’s harrowing and compelling account… rings very true. * Irish Times *This is not a vindictive book, although the agony she went through is palpable; if Stephen’s struggle to keep his mind clear is heroic, so is her determination to balance his escalating needs and those of their three children. * Independent on Sunday *Jane writes about her former husband with tenderness, respect and protectiveness. * Sunday Express *Jane Hawking has written a book about what it was like to be pivotal to her husband’s celebrated existence… but it is much more a shout from the outer darkness. * The Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisBach Flower Remedies for Animals is a complete and authoritative guide to using the Bach Flower Remedies as an alternative treatment for pets and other animals. There is guidance on using the remedies and on reading animal behaviour, drawing on insights from professional animal behaviourists.

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Book SynopsisDarwin’s theory of natural selection was a monumental step in our understanding of evolution, explaining how useful adaptations are preserved over generations. However, Darwin’s great idea didn’t – and couldn’t – tell us how those adaptations arise in the first place. On its own, can random mutation really be responsible for all the creative marvels in nature? Renowned evolutionary biologist Andreas Wagner presents the missing piece of Darwin’s theory. Using cutting-edge experimental technologies, he has found that adaptations are driven by a set of laws which allow nature to discover new molecules and mechanisms in a fraction of the time that random variation would take. Meticulously researched, carefully argued, and full of fascinating examples from the animal kingdom, Arrival of the Fittest signals an end to the mystery of life’s rich diversity.Trade Review'Eminent evolutionary biologist Andreas Wagner fills in the parts of the puzzle even Darwin didn't understand.' * Mail on Sunday *‘Brilliantly polarises scientists’ research into the mystery of life itself’ * Financial Times, Readers' books of the year *‘A truly revolutionary book’ * Independent, best books of the year *‘Elegantly explores the cunning short cuts nature uses to achieve the seemingly impossible’ * Sunday Times, a best science book of the year *‘Wagner's book is an eye-opener. As a bonus, his writing is clear and elegant, with vivid analogies and concrete examples to illustrate his key points. You'll never think about evolution in the same way again’ * New Scientist *‘Arrival of the Fittest should be mandatory, corrective reading… mind-bending… tremendously exciting’ * BBC Focus *‘Quite astounding… The ideas are big, and the numbers hyper-astronomical, but Wagner has a gift for explaining the abstract… elegantly’ * THES *‘The author provides a detailed argument in support of the idea that evolutionary adaptations are not random as Darwin originally proposed, but instead, adaptations obey a set of laws that maximise discovery of new molecules and molecular pathways… I already expect I’ll see this book on next year’s Royal Society Winton Prize shortlist’ * Guardian Science blog *‘A book of startling congruencies, insightful flashes and an artful enthusiasm that delivers knowledge from the inorganic page to our organic brains.’ -- Kirkus‘Brand new scientific insights told in sparkling literary prose… a landmark book that combines original, perhaps revolutionary, ideas elegantly explained.’ -- Matt Ridley, author of Genome‘Arrival of the Fittest reveals the astonishing hidden structure of evolution, long overlooked by biologists, which makes Darwin’s grand idea viable after all. At the same time, it makes life seem even richer and more remarkable than you thought. Darwin would surely have loved this book; I think you will too.’ -- Philip Ball, author of The Music Instinct and Critical Mass‘Andreas Wagner is one of those rare scientists with the courage and intellect to see the real nature of evolution.’ -- Frank Vertosick, author of When the Air Hits Your Brain‘Wagner’s engaging and delightful book will open your eyes to the mysteries of innovation. His insights will entertain and astonish you, and they will also change the way you think.’ -- Daniel E. Lieberman, Edwin M Lerner II Professor of Biological Sciences, Harvard University‘If there is one subject even more controversial than the evolution of intelligence, it is the intelligence of evolution. Andreas Wagner presents a compelling, authoritative, and up-to-date case for bottom-up intelligence in biological evolution, and it sticks.’ -- George Dyson, author of Turing's Cathedral‘A radical departure from the mainstream perspective on Darwinian evolution. Andreas Wagner cuts to the core of innovation in living systems. Fundamental. Entertaining. Brilliant.’ -- Dr Rolf Dobelli, author of the bestseller The Art of Thinking Clearly

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Book SynopsisExplore the colourful world of alpine flowers. This practical book will help you make a quick, reliable identification of each plant, with concise descriptions and illustrations for individual plants to enable differentiation from similar species. Flowers can be identified quickly from colour and shape. The notable characters of each plant are clearly highlighted. Covering 500 species, each with colour photographs, this compact guide is designed for walkers and botanists. For each plant the common name, scientific name, flowering time, plant height, protected status, and distribution (habitat and altitude) are described.Trade ReviewEuropeans sure know how to produce pithy guidebooks that are models of economic presentation. Hoppe’s compact guidebook is a standout. It covers Europe’s Alps, a 1200-km arc straddling (from west to east) France, Monaco, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, and Slovenia, including Germany to the north and Italy to the south... Hoppe is a valuable travel companion. -- Rudolf Schmid * Taxon *The overall goal of this book, though, is to provide a comprehensive guide to the alpine flowers, in their diversity and beauty. In this, I think the authors have done quite well. The guide lists 500 species, and the content is easy to read and provides an efficient overview. With some practice and regular use, this book will be a nice field guide for first use and occasional reference and will stimulate the user to seek additional information from more comprehensive textbooks. -- Peter Schroeder * Plant Science Bulletin *Table of ContentsAn introduction to alpine flowers; Alpine flowers by flower colour; Red flowers; White flowers; Blue flowers; Yellow flowers; Green/brown flowers; Index; Botanical terms illustrated; The Alps – map of the regions covered

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Book SynopsisEntertaining, rigorous introduction to the development of quantum theory traces the subject''s history, from Max Planck''s revolutionary discovery of quanta and Niels Bohr''s model of the atom to anti-particles, mesons, and Enrico Fermi''s nuclear research. Numerous line drawings. 1966 edition.

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Book SynopsisAccessible treatment offers highly detailed accounts concerning development of ideas and theories about the nature of electricity and space (aether), focusing on period from Descartes to Lorentz, Einstein, and Minkowski.

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Book SynopsisIn his monumental 1687 work, Philosophiae Naturalis Principia Mathematica, known familiarly as the Principia, Isaac Newton laid out in mathematical terms the principles of time, force, and motion that have guided the development of modern physical science. This is a modern translation based on the 1726 edition.

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Book SynopsisAn intrepid investigation into nature’s restorative benefits by a prize-winning author.Trade Review"…we intuitively know that being outside is good for us. But science also backs this up. American journalist and author Florence Williams has gathered and simplified the research in her book The Nature Fix, which reveals that we are hard-wired to be in the natural world." -- Clare Coulson - Financial Times"A beautifully written, thoroughly enjoyable exposition of a major principle of human life now supported by evidence in biology, psychology, and medicine." -- Edward O. Wilson"The Nature Fix by Florence Williams is an ideal holiday pick too, chock-full of insights about the health benefits of spending time in nature." -- Rohan Silva, Summer Reads 2017 - The Guardian"... the author makes a compelling argument for time outdoors. She takes a refreshing approach, including 'forest bathing' (the Japanese custom of a sensory walk in the woods); ecotherapy in Scotland; and how nature can produce the same effects as mind-altering drugs. Thought-provoking and excellent. " -- BBC Wildlife Magazine"... impassioned and thorough exploration of nature’s impact on our bodies, psyches and creativity…" -- The Irish Examiner"One recent book that I’ve found fascinating is The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative by Florence Williams. It goes into much scientific research exploring the impact of nature and trees on our health." -- The Sunday Telegraph"... a wonderful book called The Nature Fix — all about why it is that we tend to feel happier and healthier when we spend time in the natural world. It’s full of fascinating insights — and well worth reading." -- Rohan Silva - Evening Standard"In every chapter, Williams visits someone conducting research into the effects of these different experiences of nature on the mind. Her focus is the neuroscience - how our brains are hardwired." -- Times Educational Supplement"An engaging, entertaining and enlightening read... Full of fascinating information and interesting insights and theories, this book reads like a documentary as Florence Williams travels the world in search of definitive answers to questions about why we need nature and how best to enjoy it." -- The Loveplace

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Book SynopsisInterweaving physics, astronomy, chemistry, geology, and biology, this book tells Earth's complete story, from the synthesis of chemical elements in stars, to the formation of the Solar System, to the evolution of a habitable climate on Earth, to the origin of life and humankind.Trade ReviewHonorable Mention for the 2012 Award for Best Professional/Scholarly Book in Earth Sciences, Association of American Publishers "[T]his classic history of our common home with the latest discoveries in planetary science ... is a cutting-edge exploration of the Earth's evolution from the Big Bang to the advent of human civilization."--Barnes & Noble Review "To be worth being this unwieldy, a book ought to do something pretty remarkable. And that's just what How to Build ... does, as you can tell from its subtitle, The Story of Earth from the Big Bang to Humankind. Now that's what you call a large canvas."--Brian Clegg, Popular Science "Like any good story, the tale that Langmuir and Broecker tell is a complex, weaving narrative that would be ideally placed on your bookcase between James Kasting's How to Find a Habitable Planet and Peter Ward and Donald Brownlee's Rare Earth... As non-astronomers they cover the initial cosmological and astronomical sections adequately, but as the book develops towards explaining the processes that make Earth habitable, the authors' expertise really comes to the fore... How to Build a Habitable Planet is Earth's story, but Langmuir and Broecker conclude with a nod to exoplanets and the search for alien life. Could it one day also become another planet's story?"--Astronomy Now "The authors ... have taken on a mighty task. You cannot underestimate the accuracy of their scholarship, or its thoroughness."--Heather Couper, BBC Sky at Night "This is a completely different book, wholly updated but also more detailed and more comprehensive. Yet, it keeps the bright flavour of the old version, and remains accessible without compromising on accuracy... How to Build a Habitable Planet is an accurate and enjoyable read."--Euan G. Nisbet, Nature Geoscience "Enormous advances have been made in the Earth sciences in the years since the original volume appeared. In addition, climate change has become a much more urgent topic. The revised version aims to bring the science up to date and to give a current environmental perspective. In this undertaking, Broecker has been joined by Langmuir, who now becomes first author. Their approach of providing each chapter with a clear introduction and summary will help greatly in accommodating the lay reader... We can be grateful to the authors that they had the initiative and energy to undertake a scientific synthesis of such broad scope... All who are concerned with the global environment and who wish to be scientifically well-informed in relation to it will find the book a worthwhile and inspirational challenge."--Ray Bates, Irish Times "[Langmuir and Broecker] strike a nice balance with roughly an equal number of chapters devoted to life, earth, and extraterrestrial processes... What makes it work is the authors' admirable job of focusing tightly on how the many processes they outline feed into life's makeup or systems needed to support it."--Choice "Although this 718 page book is over twice as long compared to the first edition, it is still a comfortable read both for earth scientists as well as nonspecialists. The diverse topics dealt with have been skillfully stitched together and each chapter provides lucid descriptions, logical discussions and a nice summary. This book could be an useful text for undergraduate students in earth sciences and with necessary supplements, could also be used for advanced courses in earth sciences."--Ramananda Chakrabarti, Current Science "I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a well-informed exploration of the theories behind building a habitable planet. Although complex in some places, it is still accessible to many and is overall a very useful addition to any astrobiologist's library."--Samantha Rolfe, Astrobiology Society of GB "This classic account of how our habitable planet was assembled from the stuff of stars introduced readers to planetary, Earth, and climate science by way of a fascinating narrative. Now it has been made even better."--Lunar and Planetary Information Bulletin "Generally speaking, the book by Langmuir & Broecker is very reader friendly... It can become an essential reading for both beginners and professionals in geology, palaeontology, and other natural sciences. Geoscience educators will also praise it... This book is a very good addition to the conventional textbooks on general geology, and it can be recommended for students as advanced reading."--Dmitry A. Ruban, Palaontologie AllgemeinTable of ContentsPreface xv Chapter 1. Introduction: Earth and Life as Natural Systems 1 Introduction 2 The Power and Limitations of Scientific Reductionism 4 Chaos 7 "Systems" 13 Characteristics of "Natural Systems" 15 Natural Systems Are Out of Equilibrium 15 Natural Systems Are Maintained by External Energy Sources 17 "Steady-State Disequilibrium" Is Maintained by Feedbacks and Cycles 17 Summary 24 Supplementary Readings 25 Chapter 2. The Setting: The Big Bang and Galaxy Formation 27 Introduction 28 The Big Bang 28 The Red Shift: Measuring Velocity 31 Measuring Distance 34 The Velocity-Distance Relationship: Dating the Beginning 41 Added Support for the Big Bang Hypothesis 43 An Expanding Universe and Dark Energy 47 Aftermath of the Big Bang 48 Summary 49 Supplementary Readings 49 Chapter 3. The Raw Material: Synthesis of Elements in Stars 51 Introduction 52 The Chemical Composition of the Sun 52 Hydrogen, Helium, Galaxies, Stars 54 Descriptive Atomic Physics 55 Element Production during the Big Bang 61 Element Formation in Stars 62 Element Synthesis by Neutron Capture 66 Evidence Supporting the Stellar Hypothesis 71 Summary 77 Supplementary Readings 81 Chapter 4. Preliminary Fabrication: Formation of Organic and Inorganic Molecules 83 Introduction 84 Molecules 88 States of Matter 90 Volatility 92 Density 94 The Two Great Classes of Molecules: Inorganic and Organic 95 Minerals 96 Organic Molecules 104 Environments of Molecular Construction 107 Summary 110 Chapter 5. The Heavy Construction: The Formation of Planets and Moons from a Solar Nebula 113 Introduction 114 Planetary Vital Statistics 117 Planetary Mass 117 Planetary Densities 119 Planetary Composition 120 Evidence from Meteorites 122 Scenario for Solar System Creation 128 Understanding the Chemical Compositions of the Terrestrial Planets 132 Summary 139 Supplementary Readings 139 Chapter 6. The Schedule: Quantifying the Timescale with Radionuclides 141 Introduction 142 Measuring Time with Radioactive Decay 145 The Isochron Technique of Radioactive Dating 150 Age of the Chondrites and Earth 154 Age of the Elements 157 Unlocking the Secrets of Ancient Short-lived Processes with Extinct Radionuclides 164 26Al and the Presence of Supernovas in the Vicinity of the Solar Nebula 165 Summary 168 Supplementary Reading 169 Chapter 7. Interior Modifications: Segregation into Core, Mantle, Crust, Ocean, and Atmosphere 171 Introduction 172 Earth Structure 173 Chemical Composition of Earth's Layers 180 Chemical Affinities of the Elements 183 Origin of Earth's Layers 188 Separation of Core from Mantle 189 Timing of Core Formation 191 Origin of the Crust 194 Origin of the Atmosphere and Ocean 204 Summary 206 Chapter 8. Contending with the Neighbors: Moons, Asteroids, Comets, and Impacts 209 Introduction 210 The Diversity of Objects in the Solar System 212 Origin of the Moon 218 Using Impacts to Date Planetary Surfaces 223 Lunar Interior Modifications 230 History of Impacts in the Solar System 236 Implications for the Earth 239 Future Impacts 245 Summary 246 Supplementary Readings 247 Chapter 9. Making It Comfortable: Running Water, Temperature Control, and Sun Protection 249 Introduction 250 The Planetary Volatile Budget 251 Evidence for Liquid Water before 4.0 Ga 253 Stable Isotope Fractionation 255 Controls on Volatiles at the Surface 257 Atmospheric Loss to Space 258 Cycling of Volatiles between the Surface and Earth's Interior 264 Surface Temperature 265 Earth's Long-Term Thermostat 271 A Lesson from Venus 276 Snowball Earth 278 Sun Protection 280 Summary 282 Supplementary Readings 282 Chapter 10. Establishing the Circulation: Plate Tectonics 285 Introduction 286 The Static Earth Viewpoint 287 Continental Drift Theory 289 New Data from the Ocean Floor 291 Evidence from Paleomagnetism 293 Global Distribution of Seismicity 298 The Theory of Plate Tectonics 301 The Plate Tectonic Revolution 306 Movements through Time 309 Summary 311 Supplementary Readings 312 Chapter 11. Internal Circulation: Mantle Convection and Its Relationship to the Surface 315 Introduction 316 Movement of Earth's Interior 317 Earth's Topography and Mantle Flow 319 Mantle Convection 322 Must the Mantle Convect? 325 Does Plate Geometry Correspond to Mantle Convection Cells? 328 Active Mantle Upwelling: Plume Heads and Tails 335 Formation of the Ocean Crust at Spreading Centers 342 Summary 347 Supplementary Readings 347 Chapter 12. Linking the Layers: Solid Earth, Liquid Ocean, and Gaseous Atmosphere 349 Introduction 350 The Global System of Ocean Ridges 351 Hydrothermal Circulation at Spreading Centers 354 Ocean Ridges and Habitability 362 The Puzzle of Seawater Composition 362 Element Transport to the Subduction Zone 366 Geochemical Processing at Convergent Margins 369 Cause of Melting and Volcanism at Convergent Margins 369 Element Transport to the Continental Crust 375 Final Consequences of Plate Recirculation 377 Summary 379 Supplementary Readings 381 Chapter 13. Colonizing the Surface: The Origin of Life as a Planetary Process 383 Introduction 384 Life and the Universe 385 The Unity of Life 390 Life Is Cellular 390 All Life Uses the Same Groups of Molecules 391 All Life Uses the Same Chemical Machinery 396 Earliest Life 398 When Did Life Begin? 401 Life's Origin 406 Steps in the Path to Life 408 Elemental and Simple Molecular Building Blocks 409 Making the Essential Biochemical Ingredients 410 Building Complex Molecules 412 A Cellular Container 415 The Missing Links 417 Some General Considerations on the Origin of Life 420 Summary 424 Supplementary Readings 424 Chapter 14. Dealing with the Competition: The Roles of Evolution and Extinction in Creating the Diversity of Life 427 Introduction 428 History of Life and Earth Revealed through the Rock Record 432 Relating Fossils to Present-Day Life: The Theory of Evolution 438 The DNA Revolution 441 The Extinction Half of Evolution 447 Summary 450 Supplementary Readings 451 Chapter 15. Energizing the Surface: Coevolution of Life and Planet to Create a Planetary Fuel Cell 453 Introduction 454 Life as an Electrical Current 455 A Reduced Early Earth 457 The First Three Energy Revolutions 463 The Planetary Fuel Cell 469 Summary 472 Chapter 16. Exterior Modifications: The Record of Oxidation of the Planetary Surface 475 Introduction 476 Earth and Oxygen 477 Carbon: The Record of Oxygen Production 480 Carbon: Evidence from the Rock Record 483 Iron and Sulfur: The Record of Oxygen Consumption 486 Iron: Evidence from the Rock Record 488 Sulfur: Evidence from the Rock Record 493 Evidence for High O2 in the Phanerozoic 497 Oxygen from 2.0 Ga to 0.6 Ga 498 Global Oxygen Mass Balance 502 Summary 506 Supplementary Readings 507 Chapter 17. Planetary Evolution: The Importance of Catastrophes and the Question of Directionality 509 Introduction 510 Planetary Evolution during the Phanerozoic 511 Causes of Extinction Events 516 The Cretaceous/Tertiary Extinction 517 The Permo-Triassic Extinction 521 Plate Tectonics and Evolution 526 Principles of Planetary Evolution? 527 Increased Relationship and Complexity 527 Change in Energy Utilization with Time 529 Speculations on the Possibility of Directionality to Evolution 531 Evolution of Habitability 534 Summary 536 Supplementary Readings 537 Chapter 18. Coping with the Weather: Causes and Consequences of Naturally Induced Climate Change 539 Introduction 540 Intermediate Term Climate Variations: Ice Ages 541 Orbital Cycles 544 Abrupt Climate Change 555 The Great Ocean Conveyor 560 Human Impacts 564 Summary 565 Supplementary Readings 565 Chapter 19. The Rise of Homo Sapiens: Access to Earth's Treasure Chest Permits a Planetary Takeover 567 Introduction 568 Dawn of the Human Era 569 The Human Energy Revolution 573 Earth's Treasure Chest 575 Classes of Resources 580 Resources with Short Recycling Times: Air and Water 580 Vast Resources with Recycling Potential: Metals 586 Finite Resources with No Recycling 589 Fossil Fuels 589 Soils 593 Biodiversity 593 Summary 594 Chapter 20. Mankind at the Helm: Human Civilization in a Planetary Context 597 Introduction 599 Human Impacts on the Earth 600 Climate 600 Ocean Acidification 611 Biodiversity 614 Future Prospects 620 Historical Perspectives on the Future 628 Possible Solutions 632 Solving Greenhouse Gas Accumulation 635 Energy from the Sun, Wind, and Atom 635 Carbon Capture and Sequestration 637 The Broader Problem 643 An Anthropozoic Era? 644 Summary 646 Supplementary Readings 646 Chapter 21. Are We Alone? The Question of Habitability in the Universe 649 Introduction 650 Comparative Planetology--Lessons from Venus and Mars 652 Planet Finding 654 New Results from Kepler 659 The Number of Other Inhabited Planets in the Galaxy: A Probabilistic Approach 661 Human Civilization in the Context of Planetary Evolution and Life in the Universe 665 Summary 667 Supplementary Readings 668 Glossary 669 Index 687

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Turtles of the World is a superbly illustrated guide to the families that contain the 350 known species that are alive today. . . . These ecologically important, egg-laying creatures are obsessively interesting: and of course endangered due to habitat loss, ocean plastic, tourism and global warming. Find out everything there is to know about turtles in this wonderful guide." * Bay Magazine *"Authoritative, visually compelling, and broadly accessible, this guide will please a broad swath of readers interested in turtles."---Robert Eagan, Library Journal"This colorful and compact book by two of North America's most eminent turtle biologists is a treat for anyone's personal library."---Jacqueline D. Litzgus, Herpetological Review"I cannot heap too much praise on this book. It brings turtles to us so vividly and in such a compelling manner."---David Gascoigne, Travels with Birds"How best to effectively convey appreciation and awareness of a diverse global-wide segment of the biota, both ancient and imperiled by humans? Lovich and Gibbons hit the mark with Turtles of the World: A Guide to Every Family."---Walter E. Meshaka, CHOICE"I can thoroughly recommend this beautifully produced and interesting book to start your journey into turtle biology."---Roger Downie, Glasgow Naturalist

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"A Birdwatcher's Yearbook Best Bird Book of the Year""Terrific. . . . Futuyma writes an accessible overview of bird evolution that lay readers, especially birders, will be able to understand." * BirdWatching *"[Futuyma] skillfully weaves together salient themes of evolutionary biology from the living aviary, stressing the important role that birds played in advancing our understanding of evolution."---Alan Feduccia, Science"This engaging and wide-ranging summary of virtually every aspect of avian evolution synthesizes the earliest insights from Darwin to those of modern phylogenetics, using birds to illustrate each concept. ... [Futuyma] may be the ideal person to explain the marvels of bird evolution."---Daniel S. Cooper, The Quarterly Review of Biology"How Birds Evolve is accessible, exhilarating science for everyone – amateur birder, professional naturalist or just the average man. It’s a great book and one to read over and over and I thoroughly recommend it to all. This is already my Bird Book of 2022 and I can't see it being bettered."---Phil Slade, Another Bird Blog"How Birds Evolve is a book full of accessible and exhilarating science for everyone and not just birders and professional naturalists. It’s simply a stunning book and one to read numerous times and an example of the amalgamation of science and nature writing at its finest and I thoroughly recommend it to everyone."---Roy Stewart, British Naturalists Association"The delight is in the detail. . . . Futuyma unpacks the story of evolutionary science alongside the story of how birds evolved. . . . [How Birds Evolve] is entertaining and passionate."---Simon Ings, New Scientist"[Futuyma’s] life-long passion and competence guide us across the pages of this book with a hint of humour."---Gaia Bazz, Community Ecology ​​​​​​​

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Book SynopsisWe are marching towards a future in which three-quarters of humans live in cities, more than half of the landmass of the planet is urbanized, and the rest is covered by farms,pasture, and plantations. Increasingly, as we become ever more city-centric, species and ecosystems crafted by millions of years of evolution teeter on the brink of extinction - or have already disappeared.A growing band of 'urban ecologists' is beginning to realize that natural selection is not so easily stopped. They are finding that more and more plants and animals are adopting new ways of living in the seemingly hostile environments of asphalt and steel that we humans have created. Carrion crows in the Japanese city of Sendai, for example, have learned to use passing traffic to crack nuts for them; otters and bobcats, no longer persecuted by humans, are waiting at the New York City gates; superb fairy-wrens in Australia have evolved different mating structures for nesting in strips of vegetation along roads; while distinct populations of London underground mosquitoes have been fashioned by the varied tube line environments.Menno Schilthuizen shows us that evolution can happen far more rapidly than Darwin had dared dream.Trade ReviewInvigorating and beautifully written. - BBC WildlifeMy eyes and ears have been opened to the emerging science of urban ecology by Menno Schilthuizen - Financial TimesDelightful and charmingly written - Daily TelegraphSpellbinding and important - Sunday Times

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Book SynopsisWhat makes a mammal a mammal? The answer is more complicated than you think!I, Mammal is a history of mammals and their ancestors and of how science came to grasp mammalian evolution. After a misdirected football left new father Liam Drew clutching a uniquely mammalian part of his anatomy, he decided to find out more. Considering himself as a mammal first and a human second, Liam delves into ancient biological history to understand what it means to be mammalian.In his humorous and engaging style, Liam explores the different characteristics that distinguish mammals from other types of animals. He charts the evolution of milk, warm blood and burgeoning brains, and examines the emergence of sophisticated teeth, exquisite ears, and elaborate reproductive biology, plus a host of other mammalian innovations. Entwined are tales of zoological peculiarities and reflections on how being a mammal has shaped the author''s life. In celebrating our mammalian-Trade ReviewA splendid evolutionary study ... Drew is a wry guide to wonders such as the evolution of the scrotum and the epic journey of marsupial newborns. -- NatureAn excellent combination of scientific principle and comedic wit that will appeal to biology fans and non-scientists alike. An excellent read. * How It Works *A witty romp through evolution ... I, Mammal is just the sort of book that can spark a love of nature and an appreciation for the ever-changing, eternally correcting march of science. * Science *Quotable, heartfelt and frequently fun. * The Biologist *Drew's immersion makes one proud to be a mammal. * Booklist *Drew vividly conveys the excitement of scientific discovery [and] combines detailed technical information with interesting natural-history tidbits. There's much to be savoured by scientists and nonscientists alike. * Publishers Weekly *From ice-sliding bison and tail-biting platypuses to cats and bats, hedgehogs and hooded seals, I, Mammal will change the way you think about hairy, milk-making, warm-blooded animals (yourself included). This carnival of mammals is science writing at its most funny, companionable and smart. -- Helen Scales, marine biologist, broadcaster and author of Spirals in TimeNot only fun and instructive but also wonderfully written, I, Mammal takes us on an erudite journey through mammalian evolution. Liam Drew effortlessly weaves science together with all manner of often very funny anecdotes. Reading it will be a pleasure for scientists and non-specialists alike. -- René Hen, Professor of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Columbia UniversityTable of ContentsIntroduction: My Family and Other Mammals Chapter 1 : The Descent of Man(’s Gonads) Chapter 2 : Life on the Edge of Mammaldom Chapter 3 : Y, I’m Male Chapter 4 : The Mammalian Birds and Bees Chapter 5 : The Next Generation Chapter 6 : Afterbirth Before Birth Chapter 7 : The Milky Way Chapter 8 : Kids, Behave! Chapter 9 : Bones, Teeth, Genes and Trees Chapter 10 : It’s Getting Hot in Here, Put Your Coat On Chapter 11 : Scents and Sensibility Chapter 12 : A Multilayered Brain Teaser Chapter 13 : This Mammalian Life Afterword: Mammals Selected Reading Acknowledgement Index

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"In Conchophilia seven scholars dissect why Renaissance-era collectors braved maritime hazards to beachcomb. Finding the pearliest treasures at shorelines called for avoiding crocodiles, spiny urchins and ‘burning sea slime’. . . . Painters depicted shells, with names as wonderful as ‘precious wentletrap’ and ‘speckled episcopal miter,’ arrayed on banquet tables or in the hands of exulting deities. Metalsmiths set nautiluses on gold pedestals sculpted with mermaid and sea foam motifs. Collectors had favorite shells cemented onto grotto walls, sometimes in the bristly shapes of pine cones and artichokes."---Eve M. Kahn, New York Times"This richly illustrated collection of essays conceptualises the shell and how it was used in material and visual culture, philosophy, and aesthetics as a ‘vessel’ to comprehend early modern society, primarily in a Dutch and German context. . . . [A] well-produced and beautiful book, even its softly glowing endpapers reminiscent of polished shells and nacre. Of interest to art historians, historians of science, and historians of visual and material culture, the essays are also clearly written and approachable, offering many pearls of wisdom. I highly recommend it."---Anna Marie Roos, Early Modern Low Countries"The exquisitely illustrated, thought-provoking book examines the complicated provenances, varied uses, and key role of shells in shaping this period’s visual and aesthetic culture."---Lauren Moya Ford, Hyperallergic"[Conchophilia does] an excellent job in surveying both art history and the history of science to discuss the uses of shells in art. . . . The lavish illustrations alone are worth the price of purchase. . . . Truly a feast for the eyes."---Alan R. Kabat, American Conchologist"Conchophilia is well-designed and beautifully illustrated, a book that deploys wonderful narratives about the love of shells in early modern Europe. . . . A captivating combination of the material and the social, of shells and people."---Marlise Rijks, Early Science and Medicine"A very handsome book replete with full-color photographs, Conchophilia is a joy to read, as appealing and stimulating as the curiosities it considers."---James Clifton, Historians of Netherlandish Art Reviews"All the studies in this beautiful book command respect: they are distinctly original and relevant and unfold with keen intelligence. With a novel, methodical approach, and by means of very subtle and magnificently illustrated analyses, they illuminate European collections of the first modern era."---Myriam Marrache-Gouraud, Renaissance and Reformation"A thought-provoking and beautifully produced book. . . . [A]s all authors convincingly show in their chapters, a case can be made for the particular poignant love of shells from the early sixteenth century onward. Both as literal and metaphorical vessels, it is argued, shells prompted reflection, contemplation, and discussion, as material manifestations of exoticness, (natural and divine) craftmanship, and aesthetics."---Marika Keblusek, Renaissance Quarterly"A fascinating book."---Christopher Stocks, Country Life

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Book Synopsis The lily is an emotive flower, with cultural connotations of romance, remembrance, love and innocence. It is little wonder that the lily can be found in literature, art and heraldry across Asia, Europe and North America; where they have added dramatic elegance to gardens for centuries. The next title in Pavilion’s series of beautiful floral gardening guides celebrates the ornamental charm and delicate petals of the lily. The book begins with the history of this flower, from Greek and Roman mythology to the hybridization of today. The beautifully-presented reference guide features more than 50 well-loved and unusual varieties of lily, from the towering and prolific Arabian Knight to the fiery Viva la Vida, the pink pollen-free Distant Drum to the tall blonde bombshell Yelloween. Find out how to care for your lilies, with practical tips for all kinds of gardens, containers and balconies. With engaging commentary on each bloom, easy-to-follow advice and glorious photography, this book will appeal to everybody who is after the best bloom for weddings, outdoor spaces or the most bountiful cut flowers.Trade ReviewFor Dahlias:'A comprehensive, quick-reference guide. This is a visually stunning book with superb photography, which makes it a beautiful experience to turn each page – a great introduction to the genus.' – Gardens Illustrated Magazine 'Simply glorious.' – Daily Mail Weekend 'Handsomely produced and lushly illustrated.' – The Irish Times For Ranunculus Naomi Slade ‘goes the extra mile, giving us added bits of useful information that can really help gardeners develop their practical knowledge.’ – Garden Media Guild Award Winner 2022 ‘A colourful, informative book that is an inspiring read for anyone who loves these luxurious, abundant blooms..' – Gardens Illustrated For Hydrangeas: 'Instantly re-educates and inspires, leaving one determined to uproot half the garden and replant it with hydrangeas.' – The Sunday Times For Peonies: ‘Simply flicking through the pages … is a sensualist’s dream.’ – The Sunday Times

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Book SynopsisVery Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, InspiringPhilosophy of physics is concerned with the deepest theories of modern physics - notably quantum theory, our theories of space, time and symmetry, and thermal physics - and their strange, even bizarre conceptual implications. A deeper understanding of these theories helps both physics, through pointing the way to new theories and new applications, and philosophy, through seeing how our worldview has to change in the light of what we learn from physics.This Very Short Introduction explores the core topics in philosophy of physics through three key themes. The first - the nature of space, time, and motion - begins by considering the philosophical puzzles that led Isaac Newton to propose the existence of absolute space, and then discusses how those puzzles change - but do not disappear - in the context of the revolutions in our understanding of space and time that came first from special, and then from general, relativity. The second - the emergence of irreversible behavior in statistical mechanics - considers how the microscopic laws of physics, which know of no distinction between past and future, can be compatible with the melting of ice, the cooling of coffee, the passing of youth, and all the other ways in which the large-scale world distinguishes past from future. The last section discusses quantum theory - the foundation of most of modern physics, yet mysterious to this day. It explains just why quantum theory is so difficult to make sense of, how we might nonetheless attempt to do it, and why the question has been highly relevant to the development of physics, and continues to be so.ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1: The methods and fruits of science 2: Motion and intertia 3: Relativity and its philosophy 4: Reduction and irreversibility 5: Mysteries of the quantum 6: Interpreting the quantum Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisThis book challenges the perception of chemistry as too difficult to bother with and too clinical to be any fun. Cathy Cobb and Monty L. Fetterolf, both professional chemists and experienced educators, introduce readers to the magic, elegance, and, yes, joy of chemistry. From the fascination of fall foliage and fireworks, to the functioning of smoke detectors and computers, to the fundamentals of digestion (as when good pizza goes bad!), the authors illustrate the concepts of chemistry in terms of everyday experience, using familiar materials. The authors begin with a bang-a colorful bottle rocket assembled from common objects you find in the garage-and then present the principles of chemistry using household chemicals and friendly, nontechnical language. They guide the reader through the basics of atomic structure, the nature of molecular bonds, and the vibrant universe of chemical reactions. Using analogy and example to illuminate essential concepts such as thermodynamics, photochemistry, electrochemistry, and chemical equilibrium, they explain the whys and wherefores of chemical reactions. Hands-on demonstrations, selected for their ease of execution and relevance, illustrate basic principles, and lively commentaries emphasize the fun and fascination of learning about chemistry. This delightful and richly informative book amply proves that chemistry can appeal to our intuition, logic, and-if we're willing to get down and dirty-our sense of enjoyment too.

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Book Synopsis''A riveting ride through your own brain'' - Adam Grant, New York Times bestselling author of OriginalsWINNER of the Society for Personality and Social Psychology''s book prize for ''The Promotion of Social and Personality Science''If humans are fundamentally good, why do we engage in acts of great cruelty? If we are evil, why do we sometimes help others at a cost to ourselves? Whether humans are good or evil is a question that has plagued philosophers and scientists for as long as there have been philosophers and scientists.Many argue that we are fundamentally selfish, and only the rules and laws of our societies and our own relentless efforts of will can save us from ourselves. But is this really true? Abigail Marsh is a social neuroscientist who has closely studied the brains of both the worst and the best among us-from children with psychopathic traits whose families live in fear of them, to adult Trade ReviewA brilliant, beautiful, and important book about the things that make some of us angels, some of us devils, and all of us human. You won't be able to put it down - Daniel Gilbert, Harvard University[Marsh's] book is deft enough to be chilling at times, infectiously optimistic at others - The Daily TelegraphReads like a thriller. Abigail Marsh takes us through the groundbreaking research that has thrown light on two of the most fundamental traits of human beings: extreme selfishness and extreme altruism. Page after page, she shows convincingly that the capacity to perceive and identify fear and, consequently, to feel empathy as one would for a child in danger, is the key factor that makes us behave as a psychopath or as someone who joyfully gives a kidney to a stranger. One of the most mind-opening books I have read in years - Matthieu Ricard, Author of Altruism: The Power of Compassion to Change Yourself and the WorldBeautifully and engagingly written, yet not compromising on science. Abigail Marsh has written a page-turner that takes you meticulously through the scientific evidence for why altruism exists, while fooling you into thinking that you are reading a detective novel. This is essential reading for anyone interested in why people vary in their capacity for empathy and love - Essi Viding PhD, Professor of Developmental Psychopathology at UCLLet Abigail Marsh guide you on a riveting ride through your own brain. With lively writing and an impressive command of science, she shows how sensitivity to fear can be both a weapon of evil and a force for good - Adam Grant, New York Times bestselling author of Originals, Give and Take, and Option B (with Sheryl Sandberg)The combination of thorough investigation and personal research experiences creates a volume far more engaging than those typically written by academics...Those who seek to comprehend the origin of fear, altruism, and elements of human nature will find this book a key factor in their increased understanding - ScienceThe book is overall a model of careful popular science writing, rebutting common oversimplifications... Best of all, her writing style is vivid and personable... And despite the book's optimistic message, there are moments-as when she describes a psychopathic teenage girl she tested as someone "with whom I would have been unwilling to spend a night alone in a house"-that send a chill down the spine. - The Wall Street JournalRecommend this fascinating text to readers of pop psychology and true crime fans who wish to better understand the minds of potential criminals - BooklistA fascinating tour of altruism research, all the better for being sprinkled with anecdotes about Marsh's life, career and unforgettable research subjects. As well as the extremes of human nature, Marsh says plenty that is of relevance to those of us in the middle of the bell curve, including how we can strive to be more altruistic in our everyday lives * New Scientist *Provides an illuminating dive into the science behind both altruism and psychopathy, promising an entertaining read for scientists and laypeople alike * Paste *A fine example of a book that looks deeper, showing how an ancient part of the brain--central to our emotional lives--plays a pivotal role in who we are and what we do. It's a sharp analysis sprinkled with relatable examples, and an excellent brain book * Forbes *

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewPraise for The Little Book of String Theory: "Gubser ... does a masterly job of introducing string theory in simple terms and without using math."--Library Journal Praise for The Little Book of String Theory: "Steven Gubser provides a brief introduction to this complicated topic, and condenses an enormous amount of information into this 'little book.'"--ForeWord Praise for The Little Book of String Theory: "You will probably finish the book more confused than when you started, but in the best possible way: with profound questions and a desire to learn more."--New Scientist

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Book Synopsis"Anyone purchasing a greenhouse should read this book first." -Home Greenhouse Magazine Do you want homegrown tomatoes in the dead of winter? Or to grow succulents and cacti in the coldest parts of the world? All you need is a greenhouse. In The Greenhouse Gardener's Manual, Roger Marshall shares the secrets of successfully growing vegetables, fruits, flowers, and houseplants in a well-maintained greenhouse. You'll learn how to choose the right design, create a healthy environment, use the space for propagation, and maintain the greenhouse year-round. Marshall also includes a plant directory of the 70 best fruits and vegetables and the 88 best ornamental plants for growing in a greenhouse.

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Book Synopsis-- What is the true nature of water and does it have memory?-- By working with the rhythm and flow of water, can we increase its life-giving power?Water is not only fundamental to life but is essential for the cycles and changes in nature. John Wilkes argues as well that water is the universal bearer of whatever character we put into it. For this reason the way we treat water is of crucial importance to our health, and to the well-being of our planet.Working with his remarkable invention, the Flowform, Wilkes has uncovered hidden secrets of the world of water, and at the same time created an artform of great beauty. His lifetime of applied research into rhythms and water, fully revealed in this book for the first time, has startling implications for such topical issues as farming and irrigation; food production and processing; water treatment and recycling; and health and cosmetic products.This ground-breaking book is lavishly illustrated to show both the beauty of the Flowform and the wide range of its applications.Trade Review'With extraordinary depth of vision, Wilkes shares more than thirty years of accumulated ideas, experiments, experiences and creative, innovative designs with water. Benefits from many photographs and illustrations.'-- Maggie Lee, Resurgence, May 2004'John Wilkes patented his first Flowform water sculpture over 30 years ago. This is the story of his studies into the nature and behaviour of water and the pioneering development of the special water sculptures. Detailed accounts of research are richly illustrated, including many beautiful images of the swirling patterns. The book is full of both scientific observations and a celebration of the beauty and wonder of water, and the beauty and wonder of the sculptures it has inspired John Wilkes and his team to create.'-- Kathleen Askew, Permaculture, March 2004'One of the aims of the book is to raise our consciousness about water and get us to reassess our attitude to it and in this it most definitely succeeds. With the aid of copious photographs, drawings and diagrams, our attention is drawn to how much life there is in water. I found this an extremely interesting, informative and attractive book.'-- Rosemary Usselman, New View, December 2003'Contains many beautiful illustrations of water-in-motion from rivers and waterfalls, to the art of designing water features for a garden.'-- Pentacle, Spring 2004Table of ContentsPart 1: Rhythm and polarity1. Water and rhythm2. Rhythm and flow: the water cycle3. MetamorphosisPart 2: Discovering the Flowform4. Experimenting with water5. Discovery of the Flowform Method6. The Flowform and the Living WorldPart 3: Applications and Research7. Järna: the first major Flowform project8. The next generation of Flowforms9. The Metamorphic Sequence10. Research with Cascades11. Flowform related developments12. The Flowform throughout the World13. Present and FutureAppendix 1: MetamorphosisAppendix 2: Flowform types, designs and applicationsAppendix 3: Scientific and technical aspectsAppendix 4: Virbela Rhythm Research Institute

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Book SynopsisDiscover the true meaning of dog behaviour to form the deepest bond with your canine companion.What does it really mean when a dog rolls over and shows their tummy? They''re not always looking for a belly rub...Drawing on the latest research in dog psychology, this book reveals the secret meanings behind more than 80 canine behaviours, including the seven types of dog greeting and why some dogs eat your underwear!Packed with dogwatching tips and positive reinforcement training advice, this book will help you keep your dog happy, stimulated - and adorable!

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Book SynopsisThe only series for MYP 4 and 5 developed in cooperation with the International Baccalaureate (IB)Develop your skills to become an inquiring learner; ensure you navigate the MYP framework with confidence using a concept-driven and assessment-focused approach presented in global contexts.- Develop conceptual understanding with key MYP concepts and related concepts at the heart of each chapter.- Learn by asking questions with a statement of inquiry in each chapter. - Prepare for every aspect of assessment using support and tasks designed by experienced educators.- Understand how to extend your learning through research projects and interdisciplinary opportunities.This title is also available in two digital formats via Dynamic Learning. Find out more by clicking on the links at the top of the page.Trade ReviewReview on Amazon.co.uk MYP teachers have been waiting for many years for a resource of this type and quality. The excellent changes initiated by the IB between 2010 and 2012 in terms of a more explicitly conceptual and contextual curriculum have enabled a subject-specific text such as this to be written. Thankfully Paul Morris understands the nature of the MYP as well as anyone and has been able to bring together the new conceptual and contextual approaches in a way that supports excellent teaching and learning. This book makes learning MYP physics fun, relevant and engaging. Each page makes you think about physics and its place in the world, and about how we best demonstrate our understanding. This is the complete MYP physics resource, I thoroughly recommend it. -- Malcolm * Review on Amazon.co.uk *Table of Contents 1: How big is everything? 2: How do forces and matter interact? 3: Amazing structures: how have we learnt to use force? 4: How far, how fast, how much faster? 5: Free to move? 6: How do we make life easier? 7: How can we communicate? 8: How is our climate changing? 9: Are all our futures electric? 10: Power to the people? 11: What’s in an atom? 12: Where are we in the Universe?

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE TS ELIOT PRIZE FOR POETRY 2020 WINNER OF THE SCOTTISH BOOK AWARDS' POETRY BOOK OF THE YEAR A POETRY BOOK SOCIETY RECOMMENDATION SHORTLISTED FOR THE JOHN POLLARD FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL POETRY PRIZE "Whip-smart, sonically gorgeous" - Rae Armantrout, author of the Pulitzer Prize winning Versed When Louis Pasteur observed the process of fermentation, he noted that, while most organisms perished from lack of oxygen, some were able to thrive as 'life without air'. In this capricious, dreamlike collection, characters and scenes traverse states of airlessness, from suffocating relationships and institutions, to toxic environments and ecstatic asphyxiations. Both compassionate and ecologically nuanced, this innovative collection bridges poetry and prose to interrogate the conditions necessary for survival.Trade ReviewLafarge's is a fierce, clear-eyed poetry that expresses the sticky relationality between human pain and non-human destruction; the unsettling intimacy of our shared afflictions * Guardian *Startlingly fresh, at once assertive and tender, light and dark, she manages to be consistently surprising-often in unexpected ways. The range of work showcased here is impressive in itself; add the dry wit, a flare for the surreal and bright flashes of lost reality [...] and try not to be wholly engaged, refreshed and enthused -- Janice Galloway'Daisy Lafarge's Life Without Air is a whip-smart, sonically gorgeous exploration of the personal, cultural, and historical ties that bind us in literally and figuratively toxic relationships. From the marram beach grass that supports the dunes that threaten to choke it in "Desecration Air" to the toxic lakes created by rare earth mining that power our "green" technologies in "Dredging Baotou Lake," Lafarge shows us how deeply embedded we are with what harms us. These poems are as subtle and complex as the insidious relationships they illustrate. Life Without Air is the right book for our far-gone moment -- Rae Armantrout, author of Pulitzer Prized winning * Versed *The eye's visual field is only 5%, only 5% of what we see is in focus. Daisy Lafarge's poems specialise in reclaiming what we lose to habitual perception, and her language has the directness and exactitude of a specialised lexis; not jargon, but a methodical application to its subject. Daisy's poems look through a microscope: her language like a lens delicately rendering to make sense of things; a view so complicated by its alert optics and detailing that we lose an ordinary sense of what it is we're looking at; but what we gain is a heightened sense of its surfaces, its light, its mechanics. We exchange the outlines of life for a small, truer piece of the matter itself. Like pond water pushed through a soda stream, or language diffusing through the permeable membrane of the wall of the cell, exchanging complex sugars, changing its behaviour -- Jack Underwood, author of * Happiness *Warm-blooded and intimate as much as it is mind-expanding * New Statesman *A vivid and evocative collection... Fusing science, literature and art, Lafarge intellectually explores the ecosystem that human environments can permeate... Lafarge has set the bar high with this wonderful debut collection * The Fountain *This book's poetry deftly melds nonhuman, environmental exploration with biting considerations of misogyny and toxic relationships. It's fiercely original, strange and vital -- Books of the Year * Ignota *

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Book SynopsisGamblers have been trying to figure out how to game the system since our ancestors first made wagers over dice fashioned from knucklebones: in revolutionary Paris, the 'martingale' strategy was rumoured to lead to foolproof success at roulette ; today, professional gamblers are using cutting-edge techniques to tilt the odds in their favour. Science is giving us the competitive edge over opponents, casinos and bookmakers. But is there such a thing as a perfect bet? The Perfect Bet looks beyond probability and statistics to examine how wagers have inspired a plethora of new disciplines - spanning chaos theory, machine learning and game theory - which are not just revolutionising gambling, but changing our fundamental notions about chance, randomness and luck. Explaining why poker is gaming's last bastion of human superiority over AI, how methods originally developed for the US nuclear programme are helping pundits predict sports results and why a new breed of algorithms are losing banks millions, The Perfect Bet has the inside track on any wager you'd care to place.Trade ReviewThis book is full of magic. It's brimming with clever people and clever ideas... The links between betting and science run deep and wide, allowing Kucharski to cover some thrilling intellectual territory. * New Scientist *Terrific: beautifully written, solidly researched and full of surprises * New York Times Numberplay blog *Elegant and amusing ... anyone planning to enter a casino or place an online bet would be advised to keep this book handy * Wall Street Journal *Kucharski's clear prose and eye for an entertaining historical anecdote give his book an accessible feel ... an enjoyable account. * Racing Post *[An] enjoyable... paean to human ingenuity, and a Robin Hood tale of wealth redistribution. * Daily Telegraph *Great stories of how smart people have used maths, statistics and science to try and beat the odds - legally' -- David Spiegelhalter, Winton Professor for the Public Understanding of Risk, University of CambridgeA wild ride through the history, psychology, mathematics, and technology of gaming - a remarkable look behind the curtain of what most people think is intuitive, but isn't -- Paul Offit, author of Bad FaithWith an entertaining writing style, Adam Kucharski guides us through the history and state of the art of "The Perfect Bet," showing us how mathematics and computers are used to come up with optimal ways to gamble, play games, bluff, and invest our money. Extremely well-written and carefully researched. I highly recommend it. -- Arthur Benjamin, Author of 'The Magic of Maths'A lucid yet sophisticated look at the mathematics of probability as it's played out on gaming tables, arenas, and fields... Gamblers and math buffs alike will enjoy it for its smart approach to real-world problems * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisThe Periodic Table is one of the most recognizable images in science - and in our culture. Its 118 elements make up everything on our planet and in the entire universe. But how many of us actually know how to interpret its distinctive design? And what does its unique arrangement tell us about the behaviour of each element in the world around us? The Periodic Table looks at the fascinating story and surprising history of each of these elements, from the little-known uses of gold in medicine to that of arsenic as a wallpaper dye in the ninteenth-century and the development of the hydrogen bomb. Packed with interesting facts and figures and helpful illustrations, this accessible guide will help the armchair chemist navigate through the different groups of elements - and discover the world afresh.Table of ContentsThe Periodic Table. Introduction. Hydrogen. Helium. Lithium. Beryllium. Boron. Carbon. Nitrogen. Oxygen. Fluorine. Neon. Sodium. Magnesium. Aluminium. Silicon. Phosphorus. Sulphur. Chlorine. Argon. Potassium. Calcium. Scandium. Titanium. Vanadium. Chromium. Manganese. Iron. Cobalt. Nickel. Copper. Zinc. Gallium. Germanium. Arsenic. Selenium. Bromine. Krypton. Rubidium. Strontium. Yttrium. Zirconium. Niobium. Molybdenum. Technetium. Ruthenium. Rhodium. Palladium. Silver. Cadmium. Indium. Tin. Antimony. Tellurium. Iodine. Xenon. Caesium. Barium. Lanthanum. Cerium. Praseodymium. Neodymium. Promethium. Samarium. Europium. Gadolinium. Terbium. Dysprosium. Holmium. Erbium. Thulium. Ytterbium. Lutetium. Hafnium. Tantalum. Tungsten. Rhenium. Osmium. Iridium. Platinum. Gold. Mercury. Thallium. Lead. Bismuth. Polonium. Astatine. Radon. Francium. Radium. Actinium. Thorium. Protactinium. Uranium. Neptunium. Plutonium. Americium. Curium. Berkelium. Californium. Einsteinium. Fermium. The Transfermium Elements. Glossary. Index.

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Book SynopsisThe human body is a marvel - but what happens when it comes under attack? A fascinating guide to why we get sick and how we get better.The human body is a marvel - but what happens when it comes under attack? A fascinating guide to why we get sick and how we get better. ‘Lovely, warm, erudite and, above all, chatty.’ Chris van Tulleken, author of Ultra Processed People Nature wants you dead. Not just you, but your children and everyone you have ever met and everyone they have ever met; in fact, everyone. It wants you to cough and sneeze and poop yourself into an early grave. It wants your blood vessels to burst and pustules to explode all over your body. And - until recently - it was really good at doing this… The subject of infection and how to fight it grows more urgent every day. How do pathogens cause disease? And what tools can we give our bodies to do battle? Infectious is not onlyTrade Review‘Tregoning is a gifted writer of popular science. He has a knack for explaining the intricacies of vaccines and immunity without dumbing them down, and he moves things briskly along with a barrage of often self-deprecating humor.’ * Wall Street Journal *‘This book catapults us to the frontier of the vital science of infections and immune responses. Tregoning is a perfect guide, writing with wit and intelligence about a subject that surely everyone feels the importance of now. Brilliant and right on the zeitgeist.’ -- Daniel M. Davis, author of The Beautiful Cure‘Packed with fascinating facts, intriguing anecdotes and more than a few Dad jokes, Infectious is an expertly guided, pacey tour through the world of all the stuff that’s trying to kill us and how our immune systems and human ingenuity are fighting back.’ -- Dr Kat Arney, science communicator and author of Rebel Cell‘What a book! A book for everyone, an expert, or an interested lay person, young or retired or somewhere in the middle. Informed, engaging, generous and superbly written. If you have secretly wondered about some of the information of the last year (as we all have) and want one book to explain it all with total clarity – this is the book for you. I started it and could not put it down. The best, most accessible, high-quality science book I have read this year. Utterly brilliant.’ -- Jeremy Farrar, Director of the Wellcome Trust‘To call this book timely would be yet another contender for understatement of this strange decade. As the pandemic has upended the world and ravaged the population, it’s a duty for all of us civilians to turn to experts like Dr Tregoning with due humility, and educate ourselves about what’s happening to us, how we got here, how we’ve dealt with similar events in the past, and how we might get through this. This book is thorough, engaging, entertaining and utterly vital.’ -- Frank Turner, singer-songwriter‘Lovely, warm, erudite and, above all, chatty.’ -- Chris van Tulleken‘Despite the serious subject, Tregoning (who got COVID-19) maintains a sense of humor… This is a fascinating and timely account of often unheralded scientists heroically battling bacteria and viruses.’ * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsIntroduction and Survey Maxwell Equations in Vacuum, Fields, and Sources Inverse Square Law, or the Mass of the Photon Linear Superposition Maxwell Equations in Macroscopic Media Boundary Conditions at Interfaces Between Different Media Some Remarks on Idealizations in Electromagnetism Chapter 1 / Introduction to Electrostatics Coulomb’s Law Electric Field Gauss’s Law Differential Form of Gauss’s Law Another Equation of Electrostatics and the Scalar Potential Surface Distributions of Charges and Dipoles and Discontinuities in the Electric Field and Potential Poisson and Laplace Equations Green’s Theorem Uniqueness of the Solution with Dirichlet or Neumann Boundary Conditions Formal Solution of Electrostatic Boundary-Value Problem with Green Function Electrostatic Potential Energy and Energy Density; Capacitance Problems Chapter 2 / Boundary- Value Problems in Electrostatics: I Method of Images Point Charge in the Presence of a Grounded Conducting Sphere Point Charge in the Presence of a Charged, Insulated, Conducting Sphere Point Charge Near a Conducting Sphere at Fixed Potential Conducting Sphere in a Uniform Electric Field by Method of Images Green Function for the Sphere; General Solution for the Potential Conducting Sphere with Hemispheres at Different Potentials Orthogonal Functions and Expansions Separation of Variables; Laplace Equation in Rectangular Coordinates A Two-Dimensional Potential Problem; Summation of Fourier Series Fields and Charge Densities in Two-Dimensional Corners and Along Edges Introduction to Finite Element Analysis for Electrostatics Problems Chapter 3 / Boundary- Value Problems in Electrostatics: II Laplace Equation in Spherical Coordinates Legendre Equation and Legendre Polynomials Boundary-Value Problems with Azimuthal Symmetry Behavior of Fields in a Conical Hole or Near a Sharp Point Associated Legendre Functions and the Spherical Harmonics Addition Theorem for Spherical Harmonics Laplace Equation in Cylindrical Coordinates; Bessel Functions Boundary-Value Problems in Cylindrical Coordinates Expansion of Green Functions in Spherical Coordinates Solution of Potential Problems with the Spherical Green Function Expansion Problems Chapter 4 / Multipoles, Electrostatics of Macroscopic Media, Dielectrics Multipole Expansion Multipole Expansion of the Energy of a Charge Distribution in an External Field Elementary Treatment of Electrostatics with Ponderable Media Boundary-Value Problems with Dielectrics Molecular Polarizability and Electric Susceptibility Models for Electric Polarizability Electrostatic Energy in Dielectric Media Problems Chapter 5 / Magnetostatics, Faraday’s Law, Quasi-Static Fields Introduction and Definitions Biot and Savart Law Differential Equations of Magnetostatics and Ampere’s Law Vector Potential Vector Potential and Magnetic Induction for a Circular Current Loop Magnetic Fields of a Localized Current Distribution, Magnetic Moment Force and Torque on and Energy of a Localized Current Distribution in an External Magnetic Induction Macroscopic Equations, Boundary Conditions on B and H Methods of Solving Boundary-Value Problems in Magnetostatics Uniformly Magnetized Sphere Magnetized Sphere in an External Field; Permanent Magnets Numerical Methods for Two-Dimensional Magnetic Fields Faraday’s Law of Induction Energy in the Magnetic Field Energy and Self- and Mutual Inductances Quasi-Static Magnetic Fields in Conductors; Eddy Currents; Magnetic Diffusion Problems Chapter 6 / Maxwell Equations, Conservation Laws Maxwell’s Displacement Current; Maxwell Equations Vector and Scalar Potentials Gauge Transformations, Lorenz Gauge, Coulomb Gauge Green Functions for the Wave Equation Retarded Solutions for the Fields: Jefimenko’s Generalizations of the Coulomb and Biot-Savart Laws; Heaviside-Feynman Expressions for Fields of Point Charge Derivation of the Equations of Macroscopic Electromagnetism Poynting’s Theorem and Conservation of Energy and Momentum for a System of Charged Particles and Electromagnetic Fields Transformation Properties of Electromagnetic Fields and Sources Under Rotations, Spatial Reflections, and Time Reversal On the Question of Magnetic Monopoles Discussion of the Dirac Quantization Condition Polarization Potentials (Hertz Vectors) Problems Chapter 7 / Plane Electromagnetic Waves and Wave Propagation Plane Waves in a Nonconducting Medium Linear and Circular Polarization; Stokes Parameters Reflection and Refraction of Electromagnetic Waves at a Plane Interface Between Two Dielectrics Polarization by Reflection, Total Internal Reflection; Goos-Hänchen Effect Frequency Dispersion Characteristics of Dielectrics, Conductors, and Plasmas Simplified Model of Propagation in the Ionosphere and Magnetosphere Magnetohydrodynamic Waves Superposition of Waves in One Dimension; Group Velocity Illustration of the Spreading of a Pulse as It Propagates in a Dispersive Medium Causality in the Connection Between D and E; Kramers-Kronig Relations Problems Chapter 8 / Waveguides, Resonant Cavities, and Optical Fibers Fields at the Surface of and Within a Conductor Cylindrical Cavities and Waveguides Waveguides Modes in a Rectangular Waveguide Energy Flow and Attenuation in Waveguides Resonant Cavities Power Losses in a Cavity; Q of a Cavity Earth and Ionosphere as a Resonant Cavity: Schumann Resonances Multimode Propagation in Optical Fibers Modes in Dielectric Waveguides Problems Chapter 9 / Radiating Systems, Multipole Fields and Radiation Fields and Radiation of a Localized Oscillating Source Electric Dipole Fields and Radiation Magnetic Dipole and Electric Quadrupole Fields Center-Fed Linear Antenna Spherical Wave Solutions of the Scalar Wave Equation Multipole Expansion of the Electromagnetic Fields Properties of Multipole Fields, Energy and Angular Momentum of Multipole Radiation Angular Distribution of Multipole Radiation Sources of Multipole Radiation; Multipole Moments Multipole Radiation from a Linear, Center-Fed Antenna Problems Chapter 10 / Scattering and Diffraction 1. Scattering at Long Wavelengths 2. Scalar Diffraction Theory 3. Vector Equivalents of the Kirchhoff Integral 4. Vectorial Diffraction Theory 5. Babinet’s Principle of Complementary Screens 6. Diffraction by a Circular Aperture; Remarks on Small Apertures 7. Scattering in the Short-Wavelength Limit 8. Optical Theorem and Related Matters Problems Chapter 11 / Special Theory of Relativity The Situation Before 1900, Einstein’s Two Postulates Some Recent Experiments Lorentz Transformations and Basic Kinematic Results of Special Relativity Addition of Velocities; 4-Velocity Relativistic Momentum and Energy of a Particle Mathematical Properties of the Space-Time of Special Relativity Matrix Representation of Lorentz Transformations, Infinitesimal Generators Thomas Precession Invariance of Electric Charge; Covariance of Electrodynamics Transformation of Electromagnetic Fields Note on Notation and Units in Relativistic Kinematics Problems Chapter 12 / Dynamics of Relativistic Particles and Electromagnetic Fields Lagrangian and Hamiltonian for a Relativistic Charged Particle in External Electromagnetic Fields Motion in a Uniform, Static Magnetic Field Motion in Combined, Uniform, Static Electric and Magnetic Fields Particle Drifts in Nonuniform, Static Magnetic Fields Lowest Order Relativistic Corrections to the Lagrangian for Interacting Charged Particles: The Darwin Lagrangian Lagrangian for the Electromagnetic Field Proca Lagrangian; Photon Mass Effects Effective “Photon” Mass in Superconductivity; London Penetration Depth Canonical and Symmetric Stress Tensors; Conservation Laws Solution of the Wave Equation in Covariant Form; Invariant Green Functions Problems Chapter 13 / Collisions, Energy Loss, and Scattering of Charged Particles, Cherenkov and Transition Radiation Energy Transfer in Coulomb Collision Between Heavy Incident Particle and Free Electron; Energy Loss in Hard Collisions Energy Loss from Soft Collisions; Total Energy Loss Density Effect in Collisional Energy Loss Cherenkov Radiation Elastic Scattering of Fast Charged Particles by Atoms Transition Radiation Problems Chapter 14 / Radiation by Moving Charges Lienard-Wiechert Potentials and Fields for a Point Charge Total Power Radiated by an Accelerated Charge: Larmor’s Formula and Its Relativistic Generalization Angular Distribution of Radiation Emitted by an Accelerated Charge Frequency Spectrum of Radiation Emitted by a Relativistic Charged Particle in Instantaneously Circular Motion Undulators and Wigglers for Synchrotron Light Sources Thomson Scattering of Radiation Problems Chapter 15 / Bremsstrahlung, Radiative Beta Processes Radiation Emitted During Collisions Bremsstrahlung in Coulomb Collisions Screening Effects; Relativistic Radiative Energy Loss Radiation Emitted During Beta Decay Problems Chapter 16 / Radiation Damping, Classical Models of Charged Particles Introductory Considerations Radiative Reaction Force from Conservation of Energy Abraham-Lorentz Evaluation of the Self-Force Relativistic Covariance; Stability and Poincare Stresses Covariant Definitions of Electromagnetic Energy and Momentum Covariant Stable Charged Particle Level Breadth and Level Shift of a Radiating Oscillator Scattering and Absorption of Radiation by an Oscillator Problems A / Appendix on Units and Dimensions Units and Dimensions, Basic Units and Derived Units Electromagnetic Units and Equations Various Systems of Electromagnetic Units Conversion of Equations and Amounts Between SI Units and Gaussian Units B / Appendix on Equations of Macroscopic Electromagnetism References and Suggested Reading Index

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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