Solid Matter, Revised Edition

Solid Matter, Revised Edition uncovers many of the discoveries that led to the scientific interpretation of matter in the solid state. Supported by a generous quantity of full-color illustrations,Solid Matter, Revised Editionintroduces the fundamental characteristics and properties of solid matter. This reference describes the cosmic connection of the elements, leading readers through several key events in human prehistory that resulted in advanced uses of matter in the solid state.Solid Matter, Revised Edition is designed to help any student or teacher with an interest in the mysteries of matter: what it is, where it came from, how scientists measure and characterize it, and how knowledge of its fascinating properties and characteristics has shaped the course of human civilization.Chapters include:Solid Matter: An Initial PerspectivePhysical Behavior of MatterThe Gravity of MatterFundamentals of Materials ScienceRocks and MineralsMetalsBuilding MaterialsCarbon: Earth's Most Versatile ElementSand, Silicon, and CeramicsPolymers, Soft Matter, and Composites.