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Superheavy
Making and Breaking the Periodic Table
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Superheavy
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
This book will fascinate readers interested in chemistry, atomic science, and the history of scientific discovery. It suits those who enjoy accessible yet rigorously researched popular science, as well as anyone curious about the cutting-edge innovations shaping our understanding of the natural world.
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See moreTakes an in-depth look at how elements are discovered, why they matter and where they will take us, with a particular focus on the new 'superheavy' elements discovered very recently
Takes an in-depth look at how elements are discovered, why they matter and where they will take us, with a particular focus on the new ‘superheavy’ elements discovered very recently
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and
still learning, it may not be perfect - your
feedback is welcome!
Description
Superheavy was shortlisted for the 2020 AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books.
How new elements are discovered, why they matter and where they will take us.
Creating an element is no easy feat. It’s the equivalent of firing six trillion bullets a second at a needle in a haystack, hoping the bullet and needle somehow fuse together, then catching it in less than a thousandth of a second – after which it’s gone forever. Welcome to the world of the superheavy elements: a realm where scientists use giant machines and spend years trying to make a single atom of mysterious artefacts that have never existed on Earth.
From the first elements past uranium, and their role in the atomic bomb, to the latest discoveries stretching the bounds of our chemical world, Superheavy reveals the hidden stories lurking at the edges of the periodic table. Why did the US Air Force fly planes into mushroom clouds? Who won the transfermium wars? How did an earthquake help give Japan its first element? And what happened when Superman almost spilled nuclear secrets?
In a globe-trotting adventure that stretches from the United States to Russia, Sweden to Australia, Superheavy is your guide to the amazing science filling in the missing pieces of the periodic table. You’ll not only marvel at how nuclear science has changed our lives – you’ll wonder where it’s going to take us in the future.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Chemistry World praises the book as compelling, conversational and entertaining, packed with captivating stories and character insights. Phillip Ball calls it a deeply researched and engaging account, written with wit and verve, suited to both experts and casual readers alike. Jess Wade commends the meticulous attention to detail and the author’s evident passion, capturing the excitement and rivalries in the world of superheavy element research.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781472953926
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 21 January 2021
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Bloomsbury Sigma
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 18.0mm
Width: 126.0mm
Height: 196.0mm
Weight: 232g
Pages: 304
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About the Author
Kit Chapman is an award-winning science journalist and broadcaster. Initially qualifying as a pharmacist, Chapman began his career on medical journal The Practitioner before moving to Chemist+Druggist, the UK's leading magazine for pharmacists. After stints as campaign website manager for the British Medical Association and clinical editor for The Pharmaceutical Journal, Chapman was appointed comment editor for Chemistry World. Chapman also writes for the Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph, and has appeared as an expert for the BBC and Sky News.
@ChemistryKit
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