The Encyclopedia of Science and Technology

Features

• Cover Type: Hard Cover with 560 pages
• Published by: Routledge
• Edition: 1st Edition July 1, 2001
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0415937248
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0415937245
• Book Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.7 x 1.3 inches
• Weighs: 4.5 pounds

From Library Journal
Prolific science writer Trefil (physics, George Mason Univ.) is a committed advocate for scientific literacy, as evidenced by works he has coedited (e.g., Dictionary of Cultural Literacy) as well as this one-volume encyclopedia. Here he defines key concepts in nearly 1000 entries, arranged alphabetically and color-coded to indicate whether the topic is related to life science, physical science, or technology. Accessible to the general reader, the articles range widely from AIDS and artificial intelligence to welding and the Zeeman effect. The great cross references direct the reader to related articles that cover either more fundamental or more advanced information. Color is used to striking effect not only in the 750 high-quality illustrations but also in headings, highlighted definitions, and sidebars. Even the index mirrors the color scheme of the headings. Many articles have brief citations to further reading tucked in the margins. Although it does not have as many entries as The International Encyclopedia of Science and Technology (LJ 4/1/99), this work contains longer articles; and while the greater McGraw-Hill Concise Encyclopedia of Science & Technology (LJ 8/89) provides more depth, it is geared more toward the academic user. With Trefil's focus on scientific literacy, this resource complements the two mentioned above by relating concepts to today's problems. A true pleasure to browse and to read; highly recommended for all libraries. Teresa Berry, Univ. of Tennessee Libs., Knoxville
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Review
Unique Invites a reader for an interesting journey An authoritative source of information A high quality encyclopedia that is informative, engaging, and enjoyable It will be useful for the academic and the general reader. This volume is highly recommended for schools, college, and public libraries as well as family collections. -- American Reference Books Annual
An ambitious, readable, handsomely illustrated compendiumthe illustrationsare well chosen and sharply detailedthis title makes an attractive alternative, especially for smaller collections, to the pricier multi-volume science encyclopedias. -- School Library Journal, starred review
The book is not only a useful reference, but also a compelling read. Hundreds of illustrations aid readers in grasping concepts, and cross references make topics easy to handle. -- SCIENCE NEWS
An ambitious, readable, handsomely illustrated compendium. -- School Library Journal (starred review)
Prolific science writer Trefil is a committed advocate for scientific literacy as evidenced by the works he has coedited as well as this one-volume encyclopediaaccessible to the general readera true pleasure to browse and to read; highly recommended for all libraries. -- Library Journal
If you're looking for a gift for a student beginning to study science, or just naturally curious yourself, here's a splendid reference work. Edited by acclaimed science writer and physicist James Trefil, the encyclopedia marries up-to-date coverage of all aspects of science, technology and medicine with vivid graphics. From absolute zero to the Mesozoic era to semiconductors to the twin paradox, Trefil and his co-authors offer an accessible universe (as accessible as the universe gets, anyway). As should any good book intended for general audience, it turns the complex (semiconductors) as well as the almost-familiar (evolutionary theory) into the comprehensible. The nearly 1,000 entries are bountifully and intelligently illustrated, and cross-referenced to direct you to things you need to read first. There are also suggestions for further reading, although lists of Web sites would have been welcome. -- The Globe and Mail

Reader Reviews
The best science & technology encyclopedia of its class (affordable desktop size of less than 1000 pages). Articles are lengthy and meaty. Well indexed and well illustrated; excellent cross-indexing indicating pre- and post- requisite articles. Content of articles is very up to date and just right regarding level of sophistication for the intelligent lay public: not watered down yet not too difficult. Articles are interesting and thought provoking, taking the reader beyond mere comprehension of empirical scientific facts toward deeper understanding and meaning. Comment | | (Report this)