Van der Waals and Molecular Science [Hardcover]

A. Ya. Kipnis (Author), B. E. Yavelov (Author), J. S. Rowlinson (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0198552106 | ISBN-13: 978-0198552109 | Publication Date: July 25, 1996

The development of molecular physics and physical chemistry cannot be understood without a knowledge of the work of Dutch physicist Johannes Diderik van der Waals. His doctoral thesis of 1873 was the first theory of liquids and gases in which the essential differences and similarities of these two phases were interpreted in terms of the properties of the constituent molecules. This view contradicted the work of Mach, Ostwald, Duhem and other "energeticists" and provides the foundation for our current understanding of fluids. In the years since the end of World War II, there has been a re-appraisal of van der Waals's work, which has established his historic place as one of the founders of molecular science. This is the only biography of Johannes van der Waals and should be read by anyone with an interest in the history of physics and chemistry, and its most important innovator.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"A truly remarkable book. . . .a gold mine of information not just for readers interested in the life work of Van der Waals and its impact on molecular science, but also for those interested in the "Second Golden Age" of Dutch science in the period of 1850 to 1920. One cannot help but wonder why a pioneer like Van der Waals has failed to arouse the interest of Dutch historians of science. One cannot help but rejoice that two Russian and one British scientist have capture the greatness of this unglamorous, stubborn, private Dutch toiler." --Journal of Statistical Physics

About the Author

B. E. Yavelov is at Kurchatov Institute, Moscow.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 334 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (July 25, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0198552106
• ISBN-13: 978-0198552109
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,650,909 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)