Format:
1 Online-Ressource (x, 254 pages)
,
digital, PDF file(s)
ISBN:
9780511524202
Content:
This fascinating book explains why materials behave as they do. In a completely non-technical style, using only basic arithmetic, the author explains how the properties of materials result from the way they are composed of atoms and why they have the properties they do: for example, why copper and rubies are coloured, why metals conduct heat better than glass, why magnets attract iron nails but not brass pins, and how superconductors can conduct electricity without resistance. The book is intended for general readers, and uses mainly words, pictures and analogies, with only a minimum of very simple mathematics. The author explains how it is possible to understand the basic properties of matter, and translates the technical jargon of physics into a language that can be understood by anyone with an interest in science who wants to know why the world around us behaves in the way that it does
Content:
Introduction -- Crystals -- Particles and waves -- The Atom -- Statistical physics -- The quantum mechanical crystal -- Copper wires and glass rods -- Silver spoons and plastic spoons -- Glass panes and aluminium foils -- Electric bulbs and insulated cables -- Magnets -- Superconductors -- Conclusion
Note:
Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 05 Oct 2015)
Additional Edition:
ISBN 9780521450393
Additional Edition:
ISBN 9780521456609
Additional Edition:
Erscheint auch als Druck-Ausgabe ISBN 9780521450393
Language:
English
DOI:
10.1017/CBO9780511524202
