Book Description

An Introduction to Physical Science presents a survey of the physical sciences--physics, chemistry, astronomy, meteorology, and geology--for non-science majors. Topics are treated both descriptively and quantitatively, providing flexibility for instructors who wish to emphasize a highly descriptive approach, a highly quantitative approach, or anything in between. The Eleventh Edition includes new content and features that help students better visualize concepts, master basic math, and practice problem solving. In response to instructor feedback, new end-of-chapter problems appear throughout the text, sections on astronomy have been updated, and a review of basic math is now available on the Student Web Site. A dynamic technology package accompanies the text. With SMARTHINKING live, online tutoring, students can get tutorial support during peak study hours. For instructors, a new Blackboard/WebCT course, along with HM ClassPrep and HM Testing resources, provide course management tools that help make class preparation and assessment more efficient and effective. The new edition is available in both hardcover and--at a reduced price-- paperback versions, giving students flexible options to meet their needs. New! The end-of-chapter material features Visual Connections that challenge students to demonstrate relationships between key concepts by asking them to create a diagram or concept map. Matching Questions test students\' ability to match appropriate statements with key terms. Fill-in-the-Blank Questions and Multiple Choice Questions are keyed to the appropriate chapter section. New! A review of basic math is available on the Student Web Site. With step-by-step tutorials of basic math concepts, the review enables students to quickly attain the level of competency necessary for success in the course. Problems and exercises follow each tutorial, allowing students to test themselves on what they have learned. New! The Blackboard/WebCT course contains a transition guide from the Tenth Edition to the Eleventh Edition, PowerPoint slides with lecture notes and art from the text, and support for the lab manual. New! Hardcover and softcover versions of the text are available, providing students with flexible options to meet their needs. Updated! The leading three astronomy chapters have been rearranged for better continuity and more even coverage. Chapter 15, "Place and Time," has been placed first to provide better continuity with Chapters 16 and 17. Chapter 16, "The Solar System," now focuses mainly on the planets, while material on planet moons, comets, and asteroids has been moved to Chapter 17, "Moons and Other Solar System Objects." Updated! Located at the end of each chapter, On the Web exercises require students to use Internet resources to research topics, explore concepts, and solve problems. Follow-up links have been updated on the Student Web Site.