Why is rubber elastic? Why are leaves green? Answering these and a myriad of other puzzles of nature, this richly illustrated volume shows how the simplest questions can lead us through a chain of reasoning that explains some of the most fascinating principles of science. Each chapter begins with a question that forms the basis for explaining a scientific principle. Step by step, the text then delves into the more sophisticated scientific matter necessary for providing insight into the question presented, elucidating key principles and concepts. Each chapter contains a summary highlighting the salient points, answers the question definitively, and concludes with a series of exercises.

Written in a non-technical, entertaining style to engage those without a science background while maintaining the academic rigor required by more advanced readers, the book follows a unique format that enhances the learning process. Each chapter begins with a pertinent question that forms the basis for explaining a scientific principle. Step by step, the text then delves into the more sophisticated scientific matter necessary for providing insight into the question presented, elucidating key principles and concepts. Each chapter contains a summary highlighting the salient points, answers the question definitively, and concludes with a series of exercises to test readers’ assimilation of the material.

Richly illustrated with more than 650 vibrant color images, this work captures the essence of our intuitive appreciation of nature, which is the starting point for the adventure of science. Presenting integrated scientific ideas that seamlessly blend biology, mathematics, chemistry, and physics, this volume brings the most complex and intriguing phenomena to readers in a manner that is both accessible and entertaining.

The book has an accompanying website with more information.