Origins of Life in the Universe

This concise and beautifully illustrated book traces the evolution of the Cosmos from the Big Bang to the development of intelligent life on Earth, conveying clear science in an engaging narrative. By mapping the history of the Universe for introductory science and astrobiology course for non-science majors, this book explores many of the most fascinating questions in science. What is the origin of the Universe? How do stars and planets form? How does life begin? How did intelligence arise? Are we alone in the Cosmos? Physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy and geology are combined to create a chronicle of events in which the swirling vapors in the primordial cloud of the Universe evolved over billions of years into conscious life. Features: -The most fascinating questions on the history of the Universe are answered in this text for one-semester introductory science courses.
-The strong narrative and exciting color images of this incredible story will motivate non-science students to develop an understanding of science and life on Earth
-Explains science in a way that isn't overwhelming for non-science majors.
-Questions for the student prompt critical thinking.
-Combines astronomy, geology and biology to give a broad introduction to these sciences for non-science students.
-Coverage of the latest discoveries in astrobiology conveys the excitement of this fast-moving field.


Author: Robert Jastrow, Michael Rampino
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 10/23/2008
Pages: 444
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 2.50lbs
Size: 9.50h x 7.40w x 1.00d
ISBN: 9780521532839

Review Citation(s):
Choice 06/01/2009

About the Author
Jastrow, Robert: - Robert Jastrow is well known internationally as an astronomer and author of many widely acclaimed books. His initial research experience was in the field of nuclear physics, and his later work has been in planetary science, atmospheric physics, weather and climate prediction, and application of satellite observations to studies of earth resources. Dr Jastrow joined NASA when it was formed in 1958 and in 1961 set up NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies, a U.S. Government laboratory charged with carrying out research in astronomy and planetary science.Rampino, Michael: - Michael Rampino is an associate professor of earth science and biology at New York University, and a research associate at GISS in New York. His research spans many areas of the earth sciences, especially the inter-relationships between the Earth's changing environments and the evolution of life. He is Series Co-Editor for the highly acclaimed Encyclopedia of Earth Sciences (Springer) and the Editor-in-Chief of the Earth Science Encyclopedia On-Line.