Solid Matter

Supported by a generous quantity of full-color illustrations and interesting sidebars, Solid Matter introduces the basic characteristics and properties of solid matter. It briefly describes the cosmic connection of the elements, leading readers through several key events in human pre-history that resulted in more advanced uses of matter in the solid state. Chapters include: -Solid Matter: An Initial Perspective -Physical Behavior of Matter -The Gravity of Matter -Fundamentals of Materials Science -Rocks and Minerals -Metals -Building Materials -Carbon Earth's Most Versatile Element -Sand, Silicon, and Ceramics -Polymers, Soft Matter, and Composites.