Notable Women in the Physical Sciences: A Biographical Dictionary [Hardcover]

Benjamin F. Shearer (Editor), Barbara S. Shearer (Editor)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0313293031 | ISBN-13: 978-0313293030 | Publication Date: April 30, 1997

Notable Women in the Physical Sciences features substantive biographical essays on 96 world and American women scientists who have made significant contributions to the physical sciences from antiquity to the present. The essays go beyond the basic facts found in standard biographical dictionaries, bringing to life the women's developmental influences, the obstacles they faced and overcame, and their efforts to contribute to their chosen professions in spite of sometimes overwhelming disapproval by the establishment. The emphasis is on 20th-century women, and many of the living scientists profiled contributed interviews and autobiographical statements that add a vital and unique element to their profiles. Entries have been written by 70 practicing scientists and researchers who explain the scientific work clearly, in terms familiar to general readers and high school students. Each entry provides a fact box outlining major life events, including educational and career milestones, and concludes with sources for further reading. Forty-seven photographs complement the text. Disciplines covered include astronomy, astrophysics, bacteriology, biochemistry, biophysics, cancer research, chemistry, nuclear physics, and physics. Subjects were selected on the basis of historical importance and recognition by awards such as the Garvan Medal, Annie J. Cannon Prize, Nobel Prize, MacArthur Foundation "Genius" award, and the National Medal of Science. Seen across time and discipline, these dedicated scientists will inspire young women pursuing careers in science.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 9 Up. This resource presents biographical essays of 96 female scientists with an emphasis on 20th-century figures. Written by 70 scientists/researchers, the profiles explain the women's attitudes and efforts, as well as accomplishments. Astronomy, astrophysics, biochemistry, chemistry, crystallography, and physics are among the disciplines covered. Some interviews and autobiographical statements, such as an interview with astronomer Heidi Hammel, who headed the imaging team for the crash of Shoemaker-Levy 9 into Jupiter in 1994, are presented. Cancer researcher Kamal J. Ranadive of India and Chinese physicist Xide Xie are also included. The biographies are well written and enhanced by 47 black-and-white photographs. A highly useful inclusion for high school students.?P. A. Dolan, Illinois State University, Normal
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

“This resource presents biographical essays of 96 female scientists with an emphasis on 20th-century figures.... The biographies are well written and enhanced by 47 black-and white-photographs. A highly useful inclusion for high school students.”–School Library Journal

“This highly readable book should benefit its intended audience of high school students and adults. It fills a need in small collections...Recommended.”–The Book Report

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 496 pages
• Publisher: Greenwood Press (April 30, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0313293031
• ISBN-13: 978-0313293030
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.5 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.9 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,100,334 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)