Matter and Energy: Principles of Matter and Thermodynamics (Secrets of the Universe) [Hardcover]

Paul Fleisher (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 6-9-These two titles adapted from the author's Secrets of the Universe: Discovering the Universal Laws of Science (Atheneum, 1987; o.p.) explain the basic principles of matter, thermodynamics, and modern physics. Beginning with Einstein's equation of E=mc2 as the basis of physics, the introduction in both books defines a natural law so that readers may grasp the scientific principles presented. Chapters follow a sequential and logical progression through questions and explanations of everyday occurrences, the discovery of scientific laws, and their relationships to other discoveries in the field. Terms unique to the subject of physics are clearly explained and defined, and some simple experiments provide further understanding of these laws and how they work. Straightforward drawings and diagrams show processes and the structure of elements. The language and sentence structure make an otherwise difficult subject easier to understand through a conversational text. Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, Werner Heisenberg, and Dmitri Mendeleyev are only a few of the great scientists introduced. A time line of major scientific discoveries and other major American historical events helps in placing these discoveries in historical perspective.
Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 7-12. This latest title in the Secrets of the Universe series looks at the scientific laws that govern matter and energy. After presenting a brief definition of a natural law, Fleisher devotes each chapter to examining one law of nature, including Mendeleyev's Periodic Table, the laws of thermodynamics, and laws governing the conservation of matter and how the elements combine. Complex concepts are made accessible through the use of simple language, clear diagrams, and interesting real-life examples. The first law of thermodynamics tells us that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but it can be transformed. So what happens to the heat from a steaming cup of coffee? Where does it go? A useful time line sets the science in history, and there are several short biographies of notable scientists, as well as a helpful glossary and suggestions for print and online resources. An excellent selection for preliminary research in the physical sciences, this is also a good general overview of basic principles. Heather Hepler
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 11 and up
  
• Hardcover: 64 pages
• Publisher: Lerner Publications (September 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0822529866
• ISBN-13: 978-0822529866
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6.3 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,439,625 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Something practical, September 15, 2004

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bernie "xyzzy" (Arlington, Texas) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Matter and Energy: Principles of Matter and Thermodynamics (Secrets of the Universe) (Hardcover)

This book is part of the "Secrets of the Universe" series.

Reading the introduction makes you want to regurgitate. Even though the target reader grade is sit to nine, the author, Paul Fleisher, talks down to the reader in the most fundamental way.

After you get past the introduction it is mater-energy without the math. You will find the book more of a history of how our concept of energy-matter changes down through the ages. He sights key discoveries and concepts.

Before you get a chance to yawn this is one of the few books that has practical experiments to prove the laws and not just take my word for it theories.

The information is split into logical and short chapters:
1. The Law of Conservation of Matter
2. How the Elements Combine
3. Mendeleyev's Periodic Law
4. The First Law of Thermodynamics (Conservation of Energy)
5. The Second Law of Thermodynamics (Entropy)

Included are references to further reading and web sites to visit.