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The substantially revised, massive two volume ninth edition of this classic ranges across all
scientific disciplines as well as a surprising depth and diversity of technological and engineering applications.
An expanded subject index eases the task of gleaning relevant information from the over 8,000
entries. One may take issue with some of the editorial inclusion/exclusion choices (e.g., no entry at all
for Alfred Russel Wallace vs. a prolonged discussion of statistical quality control), but this work remains
a must for every serious science and technology library and enthusiast, especially those seeking a
resource geared more toward future applications rather than one serving primarily as a historical
reference.
From the Preface: “...The essence of
VNSE is enduring, and it remains a fine, concise,
comprehensive, and accessible general science work. Its intellectual scope ranges from the introductory to
the highly technical in a vast and ever-expanding array of topical coverage in the sciences,
engineering, mathematics, medicine, and more. As has long been the case, the editors have designed the book to
be approachable by students of many ages. An important feature continued in this work, therefore, is
the progressive development of the discussion of each topic, beginning with a simple definition
expressed in plain terms, developing into a more detailed treatment, and augmented by often-extensive
Additional Reading suggestions...The `personality' of the book, if you will, was engendered and fostered
by my father Douglas M. Considine. To him this book is fondly and respectfully dedicated...For the
Ninth Edition and ensuing editions, the torch has been passed. Thanks, Dad.”
Target Audience: Corporate, public, institutional, and specialty libraries; and every reader with
an interest in science and engineering.
Representative Topical Coverage:
Animal Life
Biosciences
Chemistry
Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
Energy Sources and Power Technology
Mathematics and Information Sciences
Materials and Engineering Sciences
Medicine, Anatomy, and Physiology
Physics
Plant Sciences
Space and Planetary Sciences
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