Ask the Experts: Astronomy


Book Description

For going on two decades, Scientific American's "Ask the Experts" column has been answering reader questions on all fields of science. We've taken your questions from the basic to the esoteric and reached out to top scientists, professors and researchers to find out why the sky is blue or whether we really only use 10% of our brains. Now, we've combed through our archives and have compiled some of the most interesting questions (and answers) into a series of eBooks. Organized by subject, each eBook provides short, easily digestible answers to questions on that particular branch of the sciences. The second eBook in our series – Astronomy – looks skyward and explains a variety of universal phenomena and theories. Are you curious about how planets acquire rings or what creates those gorgeous spiral arms around galaxies? Or maybe you want to know why the Big Bang didn't collapse into a black hole. Astrophysicists, professors and scientists tackle questions about stars, planets, asteroids, galaxies and nebulae, the expanding universe as well as the oddities – black holes, wormholes and dark matter. Look inside and find out what we know and what we don't know about these wonders.




Thinking of Questions


Book Description

This is not a conventional book. It is designed to stimulate and challenge all people who are curious to find out about the world they inhabit and their place within it. It does this by suggesting questions and lines of questioning on a wide range of topics. The book does not provide answers or model arguments but prompts people to create their own questions and a reading log or journal. To this end, almost all questions have a list of books or articles to provide a starter for stimulating further reading. Once you start, you will be hooked! Never stop questioning.




The Information Specialist's Guide to Searching and Researching on the Internet and the World Wide Web


Book Description

Written by a professor of computer science and a reference librarian, this guide covers basic browser usage, e-mail, and discussion groups; discusses such Internet staples as FTP and Usenet newsgroups; presents and compares numerous search engines; and includes models for acquiring, evaluating, and citing resources within the context of a research project. The emphasis of the book is on learning how to create search strategies and search expressions, how to evaluate information critically, and how to cite resources. All of these skills are presented as within the context of step-by-step activities designed to teach basic Internet research skills to the beginner and to hone the skills of the seasoned practitioner.




The Last Stargazers


Book Description

The story of the people who see beyond the stars—an astronomy book for adults still spellbound by the night sky Embark on a captivating cosmic journey with The Last Stargazers. This enthralling book takes you on an awe-inspiring exploration of the night sky, offering a unique perspective on the vast celestial wonders that have fascinated humanity for millennia. Written by astrophysicist Dr. Emily Levesque, The Last Stargazers combines scientific expertise with captivating storytelling, making it the perfect companion for both astronomy enthusiasts and curious minds. Dr. Levesque's passion for the stars shines through as she shares her personal experiences and encounters while working at some of the world's most renowned observatories. Delve into the fascinating world of astronomy as you uncover the secrets of distant galaxies, supernovae, and elusive celestial phenomena. Discover: Inspiring narratives: Dr. Levesque's engaging storytelling transports readers to the front lines of astronomical research, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of a modern-day stargazer. Cutting-edge research: Stay up to date with the latest scientific breakthroughs and advancements in the field of astronomy, as Dr. Levesque shares her firsthand experiences and encounters. Accessible explanations: Complex astronomical concepts are made understandable and relatable, allowing readers of all backgrounds to appreciate and comprehend the wonders of the cosmos. Personal perspective: Gain insight into the personal journey of a dedicated scientist as she navigates the challenges and triumphs of studying the stars. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer, a casual stargazer, or simply someone with a curiosity about the universe, The Last Stargazers is an indispensable guide that will ignite your passion for the cosmos and leave you in awe of the wonders that lie beyond. Take a leap into the vast unknown on a celestial odyssey like no other.




Exoplanets


Book Description

In the two decades since astronomers first discovered the existence of a planet outside of our solar system, "exoplanetology" has become the hottest specialty in astrophysics. Scientists young and old, inspired by the thought of finding either another habitable world or the Holy Grail of space exploration, life itself, flocked to be part of this burgeoning field. With so much brainpower on hand, it's no wonder that investigative techniques advanced more quickly than anyone would have thought. To date, more than 1,000 exoplanets have been found, and in this eBook, Exoplanets: Worlds Without End, we delve into this quest that sometimes sounds more like science fiction than science. Section 1, "Exo-Search," sets the stage and outlines how astronomers are looking for new worlds: the various techniques, how they've improved to date and plans for upcoming missions. Sections 2 through 5 analyze the discoveries, often both controversial and strange. Section 3 focuses on the race to find other Earth-like planets. With excitement at an all-time high, author Ron Cowen cautions against publishing too quickly out of optimism. In "Noisy Stars May Create Phantom Planets," Cowen describes how stellar activity can mimic the signs of tiny exoplanets. Section 4 takes on the real oddballs. They may be remnants of gas giants whose atmospheres were stripped away, as in the piece "The Bones of Giants," or have alien chemistries. Some trace their course around white dwarfs, the results of a second generation of planets forming around old stars. Section 5 asks if there's life out there. In "Anybody Home?" John Matson describes the search for the chemical signatures that scientists think are telltale signs that we're not the only living things in this part of the universe. So far, we're still alone out here, but in a field where the discoveries are coming thick and fast, it's exciting to think that it could all change tomorrow.




Vital Questions


Book Description

"Vital Questions" examines issues which have enormous influence in shaping the attitudes of our society and the way we think and look at life. Most of us have assumed for years that there must be overwhelming proof for such well established ideas as the Big bang, Relativity, and Evolution. On closer investigation one finds that the evidence is astonishingly flimsy. A number of theories taken as indisputable, from primary school to university, are examined and found to be in serious doubt.







Gratuitous Suffering and the Problem of Evil


Book Description

Gratuitous Suffering and the Problem of Evil: A Comprehensive Introduction is among the first book-length discussions of theistic approaches to the problem of evil. Bryan Frances's lucid analyses of a variety of possible responses to the problem of evil will provide serious students or general readers much material with which to consider this ancient and contemporary concern. The book offers many useful pedagogical features, including chapter overviews, study questions, summaries, and suggested readings.




A Fortunate Universe


Book Description

Over the last forty years, scientists have uncovered evidence that if the Universe had been forged with even slightly different properties, life as we know it - and life as we can imagine it - would be impossible. Join us on a journey through how we understand the Universe, from its most basic particles and forces, to planets, stars and galaxies, and back through cosmic history to the birth of the cosmos. Conflicting notions about our place in the Universe are defined, defended and critiqued from scientific, philosophical and religious viewpoints. The authors' engaging and witty style addresses what fine-tuning might mean for the future of physics and the search for the ultimate laws of nature. Tackling difficult questions and providing thought-provoking answers, this volumes challenges us to consider our place in the cosmos, regardless of our initial convictions.




Knowledge Acquisition in Practice


Book Description

This is the first book to provide a step-by-step guide to the methods and practical aspects of acquiring, modelling, storing and sharing knowledge. The reader is led through 47 steps from the inception of a project to its conclusion. Each is described in terms of reasons, required resources, activities, and solutions to common problems. In addition, each step has a checklist which tracks the key items that should be achieved.