Groundbreaking Scientific Experiments, Inventions, and Discoveries of the 18th Century (Groundbreaking Scientific Experiments, Inventions and Discoveries through the Ages)
Publisher: Greenwood Press
Published: September 30, 2003
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 368
ISBN-13: 9780313320156
Subjects: Mathematics and Science; Technology; Science; Science/Mathematics; Europe - General; History; World - General; Science / General; Inventions; 18th century
First sentence: As in many other fields, the Greeks conducted active investigations in the areas of animal structure and disease.
Description: "The 18th century saw the emergence of the industrial and chemical revolutions and witnessed the near-universal acceptance of applied science. It was a time of revolutionary, lasting transformation for the practice of science and mathematics. Most procedures and precepts of modern science took hold during the 18th century, when scientists first paired scientific research with practical application to astonishing results." "In over 60 alphabetical entries, Shectman examines the tremendous scientific discoveries, inventions, and inquiries of the period. Familiar topics such as the steam engine and hot air balloon are covered, along with lesser-known topics such as the Watt copy press and Newton's experimentum cruces. A thorough discussion of each entry's scientific impact provides readers with an understanding of the lasting social and political importance of these advancements. Narratives enrich the entries by adding context and perspective to the century's fascinating scientific history. Students and researchers will find this reference book easy to use. Included are an appendix of entries listed by scientific field, a glossary of terms, and indexes by name and subject."--Jacket.