Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

What are the most important scientific advances in the last couple of centuries? For many of us, the answers that spring to mind are the things that surround us - our computers, televisions, telephones, and lightbulbs. To a scientist, the answers would most likely be different, and might includes Maxwell's theory of electromagnetic radiation, the quantum theory and its extension into quantum mechanics, and the theory of relativity. Why should there be such a discrepancy between these two sets of answers? The problem lies in part in the distinction between science and technology, or pure and applied science. In To light such a candle, the renowned chemist and historian of science Keith Laidler examines the discoveries of some gifted individuals over the centuries - some scientists, some technologists - and how they have lit candles that have transformed our material lives. Taking seven themes in science and technology, he considers their often complicated inter-relationship. We see how "pure research" (much under threat at present) often leads to practical applications of the greatest importance. Faraday's pure research on electricity had immense technological implications, while Maxwell's theory of electromagnetic radiation led directly to the discovery of radio transmission, something of which Maxwell himself had no conception. Conversely, the early steam engines were by no means science-based, but they led directly to the science of thermodynamics, one of the most fundamental branches of pure science. Illuminated by many fascinating stories from the history of science, this book provides a powerful argument for the relevance of pure research, and gives the general reader and scientist alike an idea of the nature and importance of the links between science and technology.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• 1 Science and technology
• 2 James Watt and the science of thermodynamics
• 3 Daguerre, Talbot, and the legacy of photography
• 4 Michael Faraday and electric power
• 5 James Clerk Maxwell and radio transmission
• 6 J.J. Thomson and the world of electronics
• 7 The Braggs and molecular architecture
• 8 Planck, Einstein, the quantum theory, and relativity
• 9 Scientists, science, and society
• Bibliography and notes
• Index

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

What is the difference between science and technology? Does one invariably evolve from the other? Laidler answers these questions by focusing on seven major scientific and technological advances to show that the two, in the words of a popular song, "go together like love and marriage." Sometimes technology precedes theory, as when the invention of the steam engine gave rise to thermodynamics. But more often, "impractical" science, such as the early work in electricity and magnetism, points the way to technological advances that change the very face of the planet. The chapter on crystallography, for example, covers how X-rays were used to determine the shape of DNA and led to an understanding of the makeup of this fundamental molecule of life. More general topics, such as science and religious belief and the impact of science on society, are also discussed. The book is well illustrated with pages from original manuscripts and pictures of many of the scientists, along with personal anecdotes that help to bring them to life. A chapter bibliography and extensive notes add greatly to the value of this book. An excellent volume for the professional historian of science and technology or the interested general reader with a background in the physical sciences. Highly recommended for both public and postsecondary libraries. C. G. Wood; formerly, Eastern Maine Technical College

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Keith Laidler is Professor Emeritus of Chemistry at the University of Ottawa. He is the author of the award-winning The World of Physical Chemistry (OUP, 1993).