Description
Book SynopsisShows how crash investigators, scientists, and engineers use physics and engineering to determine the probable cause of airplane accidents and how resulting safety recommendations are incorporated to make flying safer. Beginning with the 1931 Fokker F-10A crash, this work examines crash investigations through the lens of physical science.
Trade ReviewThe author does a first-rate job... The easy-to-read and engaging manner of the writing makes this an interesting historical as well as scientific text. -- Charles K. Jervis National Science Teachers Association 2008 Bibel takes the reader, chattily and with skill, through his analysis of a series of fatal accidents. -- Paul Marks New Scientist 2007 Offering insights into how aviation accident investigations are conducted, Bibel addresses the causes of such accidents, from in-flight breakup to metal fatigue and combustion, and the lessons learned. Enriched with many drawings, graphs, and equations... Highly recommended. Library Journal 2007 A fascinating book. -- Steven D. Levitt New York Times 2008 The author succeeds in both science and storytelling. Choice 2008 The easy-to-read and engaging manner of the writing makes this an interesting historical as well as scientific text. -- Charles K. Jervis NSTA Recommends 2008 Beyond the Black Box provides a behind-the-scenes look at plane crash investigations. Air Safety Week 2008 Bibel takes responsibility for his readers' understanding... using similes based on everyday events and objects. -- Don Fry Virginia Quarterly Review 2008 Terrific book. Discover 2009
Table of ContentsPreface
1. The Crash Investigation Process
2. How Planes (Often) Crash
3. In-Flight Breakup
4. Pressure, Explosive Decompression, and Burst Balloons
5. Jet Propulsion, Burst Engines, and Reliability
6. Metal Fatigue: Bending 777s and Paper Clips
7. Combustion: Fire and Explosion
8. Crash Testing
9. Human Tolerances to G Loads and Crash Forces
Notes
References
Index
