• Adams, Phillip; Davies, Paul 1996, The big question: Paul Davies in conversation with Phillip Adams, Penguin, Ringwood, Vic.
  Paperback, 159 p.
  This is a collection of transcripts from a television program in which Phillip Adams interviewed Paul Davies, Professor of Natural Philosophy at Adelaide University, and author of The mind of God and other books on topics of modern science. The questions cover such aspects as time, the expanding universe, determinism, chaos, reductionism, consciousness and God. For the most part, the book details various theories and discoveries about the universe, its origin and age, from the teachings of the Hindus to the conjectures of Einstein, Hoyle and Carter. Most topics are to do with astronomy, nuclear physics and other science topics, discussed from a philosophical rather than a scientific angle. In fact, Paul Davies thinks that ' the whole of scientific enterprise is founded on an act of faith'. While neither Adams nor Davies is revealed as a theist, it is obvious that the latter has a belief in 'that which underpins or guarantees this mathematical law-like order in nature'. Davies exhibits a profound belief in the value of mathematical enquiry for an understanding of the universe. Adams encourages the writer through skilful, relevant questioning which expands rather than changes the direction of the discourse.
  Senior students of all subjects, but particularly mathematics and science, will find the book readable, entertaining and enlightening.
  523.1 DAV 1996 (Level: US)
• Clark, J O E 1994, Matter and energy: physics in action, Andromeda, Abingdon, UK.
  Hardcover, 160 p.
  This beautifully presented book comprises two sections. The main (second) section contains forty-eight two-page spreads organised under topics such as gases, gravity, electric current and chemical elements. Each two-page spread contains excellent coloured photographs, paintings and diagrams which expand and explain the main ideas. The text of this section is appropriate for lower secondary students. A box at the top of each subtopic contains a list of six to eight keywords found in the article. Each of these keywords forms an entry in the first part of the book which is, in effect, an encyclopaedic glossary and uses language far more scientific in style than that used in the main section. In the front are two 'knowledge maps', one showing the various fields of science and their inter-relationships, the other showing the particular areas of physics, followed by a timechart showing significant advances in physics over time. A Factfile at the end of the book lists general scientific measurement units, as well as Nobel prize winners and other items related to physics: classification, periodic table, common formulas. Each page of the four-page index is compressed into five columns of small type and is very comprehensive.
  530 CLA 1994 (Level: LS-US)
• Gribbin, John 2002, Quantum physics, (Essential science), Dorling Kindersley, London.
  Paperback, 72 p.
  This book examines the quantum revolution that turned physics upside down. Beginning with Max Planck's explanation for black body radiation, it moves on to Niels Bohr's model of the atom, Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity and the work of Schrodinger, Heisenberg and Feynman. The book concludes with the discovery of quarks and the development of quantum computers. The book is vibrantly illustrated with colour photographs, diagrams and boxed texts relating to famous people or issues. While the text is jargon-free, no concession is made to young readers. Key points summarise preceding explanations and an extensive glossary and index conclude the book. Use with the Energy and Change strand, 6.1 of the Science syllabus.
  539.7 GRI 2002 (Level: MS-US)
• Hurst, Tim 1994, Essential physics, Oxford University Press, Melbourne.
  Paperback, 201 p.
  A physics text book written specifically for the VCE Units 1 and 2 of the Physics Course, this text does not include all of the syllabus core material for the Queensland Physics syllabus, but would be a reasonable reference for selected topics. Textual depth of coverage is only just adequate. It is in plain clear type with black and white illustrations and with no colour photographs. It does have suggested experimental activities and extension research articles. It contains a good selection of standard physics problems and revision questions.
  530 HUR 1994 (Level: LS-US)
• Physical science 1999, (Time Life student library), Time-Life, Alexandria, Va.
  Hardcover, 128 p.
  Physical science gives a brief overview of the basics of physics and chemistry, including nuclear physics, matter, elements, bonding, machines, heat, magnetism, light and colour. Each topic is given a two-page spread relating it to real life, giving some theory and applications, sometimes with an unusual or little known instance, such as the ability of some creatures to walk on water, and an activity to reinforce a principle. Replete with excellent colour photos, diagrams, montages and coloured text boxes, the book will attract and also generate considerable interest by focussing on significant topics with clear, concise and stimulating writing aimed at upper primary and above. Students will certainly be motivated to study in areas that may not normally hold their interest and, although the book does not aim to be comprehensive, it will enable readers to learn much about topics they may not normally study. With a glossary and a useful index, a valuable introduction to the various areas of study for those about to enter secondary school.
  530 PHY 1999 (Level: UP-LS)
• Pingel, Chris 1994, Thermal physics, Jacaranda, Milton, Qld.
  Paperback, 90 p.
  Although a 'thin' volume, this book is probably a more comprehensive study than is required in the Year 11 and 12 Physics course. It is an excellent source however of worked samples and other examples, for teachers and students, in the area of Thermodynamics. The style provides relatively easy reading, information is accurate and clearly presented. Formulae and diagrams are clear and relevant. Treatment of units is clear, but the book requires a knowledge of S.I. units to be read easily.
  536 PIN 1994 (Level: US)
• Stannard, Russell 1992, Black holes and Uncle Albert, Faber, London.
  Paperback, 145 p.
  This book is a companion volume to The time and space of Uncle Albert but can be read on its own. It is a continuation of Gedanken's and her Uncle Albert's adventures through the mysterious world of the thought bubble. Together they continue to explore Einstein's theories. The story introduces children to the elements of gravity in an entertaining way.
  F STA 1992 (Levels: UP-LS)
• Wiese, Jim; Cash-Walsh, Tina (illus) 1997, Cosmic science: over 40 gravity-defying, earth-orbiting, space-cruising activities for kids, Wiley, New York.
  Paperback, 120 p.
  This is a well laid out book of straightforward experiments to illustrate aspects of cosmic science. Items used in the experiments are readily available and cost effective. The experiments are set out in easy-to-follow steps and illustrated by black-and-white diagrams and drawings. Boxes highlight relevant aspects of space exploration history and 'More fun stuff to do' which gives added variations to the outlined experiments. While the experiments themselves are simple enough for middle primary students with adult supervision, they also express a depth of understanding of relevant theories such as Newton's Laws of Motion and Bode's Law, and explanations for everything from gyroscopes to ellipses, to make them of value to students in Year 8. The book contains a useful glossary and index.
  629.4078 WIE 1997 (Levels: MP-LS)

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