Summaries of books about Earth Sciences:
The World in a Grain
The Story of Sand and How It Transformed Civilization
Vince Beiser
The book delves into the surprisingly critical role of sand in modern society, exploring its use in everything from construction to technology. It also examines the environmental and geopolitical consequences of the world's insatiable demand for this seemingly mundane yet vital resource.
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Rain
A Natural and Cultural History
Cynthia Barnett
The book delves into the multifaceted role of rain throughout history, exploring its influence on civilizations, cultures, and the natural environment. It combines scientific explanations of meteorological phenomena with anecdotes and historical accounts, revealing the profound impact of rainfall on human life and the planet.
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Uranium
War, Energy, and the Rock That Shaped the World
Tom Zoellner
The book delves into the history of uranium, exploring its role in warfare and nuclear power, and examines the geopolitical and environmental implications of uranium mining and its use in atomic weaponry and energy production. It provides a narrative that intertwines science, politics, and human stories, revealing the global impact of this potent element.
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Hubbert's Peak
The Impending World Oil Shortage - Revised and Updated Edition
Kenneth S. Deffeyes
The book presents a detailed analysis of global oil reserves and production rates, arguing that the peak of oil production is imminent due to geological constraints. It explores the consequences of this peak for society and the economy, and discusses potential alternatives and adaptations to a future with declining oil supplies.
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Beyond Oil
The View from Hubbert's Peak
Kenneth S. Deffeyes
The book presents an analysis of the world's dependency on fossil fuels, particularly oil, and predicts an imminent peak in global oil production based on geologist M. King Hubbert's methodology. It discusses the potential economic, political, and social implications of this peak and explores alternative energy sources and strategies for a post-peak future.
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When Oil Peaked
Kenneth S. Deffeyes
The book presents the argument that global oil production has reached its maximum rate and will decline henceforth, impacting economies and lifestyles. It delves into the geological, technological, and economic aspects of oil extraction, forecasting the challenges and changes society must adapt to in a post-peak oil world.
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Tsunami
The World's Greatest Waves
James Goff|Walter Dudley
The book examines the science behind tsunamis, exploring their causes, the physics of their propagation, and their devastating impacts on human societies. It also shares gripping personal accounts and historical records of the world's most significant tsunami events, providing insights into past disasters to better prepare for future ones.
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