Saturday, July 30, 2011

Fizzics: The Science of Bubbles, Droplets & Foams / by F. Ronald Young

Ever wonder why the head on some drinks takes forever to dissipate? Or why some fire extinguishers shoot mostly foam? It's all to do with bubbles and droplets and the "fizzics" behind what makes them so fascinating. This book describes in very plain-language fashion the compelling behavior of these seemingly simple phenomenon. Revealed are the secrets of bubbles. Young explores collections of these simple naturally occurring, everyday forms, of how a metallic foam might save the planet, and the never-ending quest for the perfect beer. Also explained is why coffee rings form and exactly how a detergent gets dishes clean. How have humans put bubbles to use?  In a lot more ways than you might think. Whether through industrial refining technology, nuclear science or in medical processes (cleaning wounds with hydrogen peroxide, sodium carbonate and other chemical properties), this is more than a book that explains science. It is a love letter written to sing the praises of the bubble, and can be read by the bright middle schooler on upward (530.4275 YOUNG).

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