Publisher description

The most comprehensive one-volume scientific desk reference available Based on the new 4,000-page, two-volume Van Nostrand's Science Encyclopedia, Ninth Edition, the best scientific encyclopedia available according to the Library Journal, this authoritative, concise encyclopedia of science features over 5,000 entries that completely cover vital science, technology, and math terms and concepts. Easy-to-use and fun to read, this indispensable reference covers the very latest scientific advances and developments in all areas of science. Plus, it offers basic definitions of scientific terms followed by concise explanations of the concepts. Packed with illustrations, charts, and graphs, this impressive book also features numerous line drawings, diagrams, and black-and-white photos. Christopher G. DePree (Decatur, GA) is Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Agnes Scott College. Alan Axelrod, PhD (Atlanta, GA) is the award-winning author of more than twenty books and is a well-regarded popular historian.

Covers animal life, biosciences, chemistry, earth and atmospheric sciences, energy and power technology, mathematics, engineering, and other scientific subjects

Advancements in science and engineering have occurred at a surprisingly rapid pace since the release of the seventh edition of this encyclopedia. Large portions of the reference have required comprehensive rewriting and new illustrations. Scores of new topics have been included to create this thoroughly updated eighth edition. The appearance of this new edition in 1994 marks the continuation of a tradition commenced well over a half-century ago in 1938 Van Nostrand's Scientific Encyclopedia, First Edition, was published and welcomed by educators worldwide at a time when what we know today as modern science was just getting underway. The early encyclopedia was well received by students and educators alike during a critical time span when science became established as a major factor in shaping the progress and economy of individual nations and at the global level. A vital need existed for a permanent science reference that could be updated periodically and made conveniently available to audiences that numbered in the millions. The pioneering VNSE met these criteria and continues today as a reliable technical information source for making private and public decisions that present a backdrop of technical alternatives.