Walther Nernst and the Transition to Modern Physical Science - Softcover

Barkan, Diana Kormos

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521176298 ISBN 13: 9780521176293

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2011

Synopsis

Primarily a scientific biography of Walther H. Nernst (1864–1941), one of Germany's most important, productive and often controversial scientists, this 1999 book addresses a set of specific scientific problems that evolved at the intersection of physics, chemistry and technology during one of the most revolutionary periods of modern physical science. Nernst, who won the 1920 Nobel Prize for Chemistry, was a key figure in the transition to a modern physical science, contributing to the study of solutions, of chemical equilibria, and of the behavior of matter at the extremes of the temperature range. A director of major research institutes, rector of the Berlin University, and inventor of a new electric lamp, Nernst was the first 'modern' physical chemist, an able scientific organizer, and a savvy entrepreneur. His career exemplified the increasing connection between German technical industry and academic science, between theory and experiment, and between concepts and practice.

About this title

Review:

Review of the hardback: 'This insightful book guides the reader through the most successful but also contradictory development of the beginning of the 20th century.' Hermann Berg, Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry

Review of the hardback: 'A beautifully written and thoroughly researched book.' Bretislav Friedrich, Angewandte Chemie

Review of the hardback: '... an impressive reconstruction of Nernst's intellectual journey ... Barkan's book makes notable contributions in the history of physical chemistry ... Barkan's study ... deserves much attention from historians of physics, especially those who are interested in the early years of quantum theory ... a rich narrative that allows a glimpse of numerous scientists and various places in Nernst's time.' Annals of Science

Review of the hardback: '... a valuable and interesting book.' Ambix

Book Description:

A scientific biography of one of Germany's most important scientists (active 1890–1933). This 1999 book provides a highly detailed, yet accessible examination of the scientific problems that evolved at the intersection of physics, chemistry and technology during one of the most revolutionary periods of modern physical science.

About this edition

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2011
• ISBN 10: 0521176298
• ISBN 13: 9780521176293
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 302