A Companion to the Physical Sciences

First published in 1989 this dictionary of the whole field of the physical sciences is an invaluable guide through the changing terminology and practices of scientific research. Arranged alphabetically it traces how the meaning of scientific terms have changed over time. It covers a wide range of topics including voyages observations magnetism and pendulums and central subjects such as atom valency and energy. There are also entries on more abstract terms such as hypothesis theory induction deduction falsification and paradigm emphasizing that while science is more than âorganized common senseâ it is not completely different from other activities. Scienceâs lack of innocence is also recognized in headings like pollution and weapons. This book will be a useful resource to students interested in the history of science. . Language: English