Books in Engineering in Action series

Civil engineering is one of the oldest engineering fields. Civil engineers are involved in the design and construction of various structures, including high-rise buildings, sports stadiums, canals, dams, and bridges. This book gives readers a up-close look at the technology used to build various structures around the world, including the ancient pyramids, the Eiffel Tower, the Golden Gate Bridge, and modern skyscrapers. Readers learn about the design process and tools used by civil engineers and are guided through a design challenge to create their own stable structures.

"You might be surprised at the huge variety of materials we use every day, in the places we live, the vehicles we use, the clothes we wear, and in preparing the food we eat. This book explores how materials engineers research, design, and develop the materials needed to make these products a reality. Readers will also learn how to combine their understanding of materials science and the engineering design process to tackle a design challenge of their own."--

Working in oceans presents unique challenges. Readers will learn how ocean engineers design equipment and processes to help scientists that study ocean systems, such as oceanographers, do research in deep waters, long distances away from land, and in harsh weather conditions. Ocean engineers come up with innovative solutions to these challenges by designing submersible vessels, structures built offshore, monitoring devices, and communication systems. Real-life examples and a design challenge help students understand key concepts related to the engineering process.

"As cities and populations grow, we need more and more energy to run and heat our homes and to power transportation. Readers will learn how energy engineers help make sure that our energy demands are met in a number of different ways. They discover new ways to convert natural resources into affordable and environmentally friendly forms of energy; they build and operate power stations for both renewable and non-renewable forms of energy; they manage electrical power networks; they also monitor how generating energy may harm the planet. Real-life examples and a design challenge help students understand key concepts related to the engineering process, and how energy engineers will play a vital role in our future."--

"Every structure that touches the ground could benefit from the skills of a geotechnical engineer. Readers will discover how these engineers study rocks, soil, natural processes, and potential hazards to help make the safest, strongest foundations possible. This book introduces key concepts and the engineering design process with interesting examples from the field. A hands-on activity and a design challenge engage readers in engineering action."--

Genetic engineers study genes and DNA to develop ways to recreate and modify them to advance technologies in fields such as medicine and agriculture. Using living organisms and systems to create new products and technologies is called biotechnology. Readers will learn how genetic engineers are working toward curing diseases in humans and making crops less susceptible to disease. Real-life examples and a design challenge help students understand key concepts related to the engineering process, and encourage discussion about the impact of biotechnology on our lives, including its benefits and risks.

GPS technology is used in everything from car satellite systems to iPhones to FitBits. How does GPS actually work? Who takes care of the vast constellation of satellites that are needed to make these systems work? Enhanced with full-color photos and fact boxes, this book showcases current military technology and tools, historical accounts leading to todays global systems, and tips to prepare for a career in the military.