Books by "John A. Balmer"
4 books found
First published in 1986, this is the story of the analysis of starlight by astronomical spectroscopy. Beginning with Joseph Fraunhofer's discovery of spectral lines in the early nineteenth century, this new edition continues the story through to the year 2000. In addition to the key discoveries, it presents the cultural and social history of stellar astrophysics by introducing the leading astronomers and their struggles, triumphs and disagreements. Basic concepts in spectroscopy and spectral analysis are included, so both observational and theoretical aspects are described, in a non-mathematical framework. This new edition covers the final decades of the twentieth century, with its major advances in stellar astrophysics: the discovery of extrasolar planets, new classes of stars and the observation of the ultraviolet spectra of stars from satellites. The in-depth coverage makes it essential reading for graduate students working in stellar spectroscopy, professional and amateur astronomers, and historians of science.
In this important new work, the author provides us with a unique perspective on the creation of a scientific discipline. A key figure in the development of dispersive spectroscopy himself, Dr. Brand combines lifelong experience with a careful exposition of the key technical and scientific advances that have brought dispersive spectroscopy to its present maturity. The reader is led to meet the actual people who have contributed to this field and know their trials as well as breakthroughs. From 1800 to 1930, Brand preserves the thread of scientific thought and activity through six generations of working scientists.
This book is a readable andcomprehensive account of the physics that has developed over the last hundredyears and led to today’s ubiquitous technology. The authors lead the reader through relativity, quantum mechanics, and the mostimportant applications of both of these fascinating theories. With more than 100 years of combined teaching experience and PhDs in particle, nuclear, and condensed-matter physics, these three authors could hardly be better qualified to write this introduction to modern physics. They have combined their award-winning teaching skills with their experience writing best-selling textbooks to produce a readable and comprehensive account of the physics that has developed over the last hundred years and led to today’s ubiquitous technology. Assuming the knowledge of a typical freshman course in classical physics, they lead the reader through relativity, quantum mechanics, and the most important applications of both of these fascinating theories.
Looks at the mysteries, scientific discoveries, and benefits of the chemical element hydrogen.