Science of Everyday Things: Real Life Physics. Volume 2

"This 4-vol. set illustrates the importance of scientific and mathematical principles through their use in everyday life. Each volume focuses on a specific scientific discipline -- biology, chemistry, earth sciences and physics -- offering students an in-depth understanding of each discipline and its theories. Creating a sense of real-life relevance for students, the Science of Everyday Things expands on the explanations of scientific principles and concepts using a straightforward, step-by-step approach, and presents theories in their everyday applications. Some of the entries covered include: how osmosis is used in dehydrating fruit; how the principles of aerodynamics are applied to cars; Charles' law and the chemical reaction that sets off an airbag; how algorithms are used to figure out the NCAA playoff tournaments; and more. Each volume the Science of Everyday Things presents approximately 40-50 entries and includes photos, diagrams, sidebars containing short glossaries and interesting facts and details relating to each principle."

"This is sure to be a useful set because it emphasizes the practical side of science. The text uses clear, concise prose so that non-scientists can comprehend the material. It is a good reference tool for high schools to consider purchasing. It has a place in both public and academic libraries."

-- Catholic Library World (June --August 2002)