Big Ideas

Download or read book Big Ideas written by Alex Hutchinson and published by Sterling Publishing Company, Inc.. This book was released on 2009 with total page 260 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: From the polio vaccine to the Post-It, the personal computer to Prozac, these are the scientific and technological innovations that have transformed our world. Award-winning author Alex Hutchinson unveils the 100 greatest inventions of the modern era--starting with the discovery of the transistor in 1947--complete with original photographs and anecdotes about their creation. For example, a candy bar melting in a scientist’s pocket during an experiment led to the invention of the microwave oven. Hutchinson consulted 25 experts at 17 museums and universities; their collective expertise spans aeronautics, automobiles, biology, computers, medicine, physics, and a host of other fields. The result includes some well-known breakthroughs (the laser, in-vitro fertilization) as well as a host of surprises (waffle-sole running shoes, the pull-top can). This charming book will delight, fascinate, and educate.