Books in Spotlight on Earth Science series

What are atoms? We can't even see them, so how do we know they are real? This book introduces readers to the concept that atoms are everywhere and that everything is made up of them. Readers will learn the history of atomic theory, from early Greek philosophers through John Dalton and Niels Bohr and on to current researchers in the field. Students will encounter high-tech tools such as the atomic force microscope and discover how scientists and engineers solve atomic problems. Colorful photographs and diagrams help make complex scientific concepts more accessible to elementary readers.

Named by the ancient Romans after the god of war, this small red planet is fascinating. Readers will explore the Red Planets formation, orbit and rotation, and unique features and atmosphere, as well as the exciting missions to Mars including exploration by the rovers Spirit, Opportunity, and Curiosity. Captivating photographs will make readers feel like theyre right there on the dusty, windy surface of Mars.

What do a rusting bike, a growling stomach, and a crackling campfire have in common? They are all the result of chemical reactions! Chemicals are constantly reacting in our bodies and all around us. Chemical reactions can be natural, like respiration and photosynthesis, or human-made, like the reactions in fertilizer and fireworks. This book simplifies chemical reactions with clear explanations and explosive examples. Primary sources show how scientists and engineers have studied and harnessed the power of chemical reactions. Their bold achievements will inspire readers to look for the extraordinary ways chemical reactions shape our world and future.

Saturn is best known for the magnificent rings that circle the gaseous planet. In this book, readers explore Saturns orbit and rotation, its moons, its craters and volcanoes, and just what its mysterious rings are made of. This informative text also explains the history of exploration of Saturn and what scientists have learned from missions to study the ringed marvel.

Heat is a form of energy that people are very familiar with. Heat makes our homes warm in winter and it helps us prepare food for dinner. Heat can also be dangerous, such as when a fire destroys a home or forest. Readers will learn the physics behind the transfer of heat from one object to another, whether it's the sun warming our world or a stove burner heating water. Readers also explore how a change in temperature can change the characteristics of matter. The manageable text is paired with eye-catching images and primary sources to support reader comprehension.

Everything in the universe is on the move! Motion plays a big part in our world, even when we cannot see or feel it. Young readers will discover the laws of motion and learn how they affect everything we do. From the action of sports to the thrill of amusement park rides and from the movement of the planets to the motion of the waves, students will learn why things speed up, slow down, change direction, or stop. This book introduces the revolutionary ideas of scientists such as Isaac Newton and Galileo and shows how science applies to everyday events.

A rainbow is just one example of light in action. Light is a fundamental component of life on Earth, but how does it work? Light is unique in physical science because it doesn't completely conform to either a wave model nor a particle model. Readers will discover that light is a form of energy and they'll learn aspects of light such as reflection and refraction. This challenging physical science concept is made easier to understand by age-appropriate language and real-life examples, such as the science behind photography and eyeglasses.

The ringing notes of an electric guitar, the ripples after you've thrown a rock in the water, even the way a microwave oven cooks your food. These are all examples of what waves can do. A wave is one way that energy travels through space and matter. This book simplifies complex physical science topics so young readers can understand them more easily. Real-life examples of how people use waves for science, art, and more help readers see how waves are all around us.

What makes it possible for plants to grow? What makes it possible for you to move your arm to raise your hand in class? What makes it possible for your house's lights to turn on? The answer is energy! Energy is the capacity for doing work. This book focuses on the different types of energy, including potential, kinetic, thermal, electrical, chemical, and nuclear. Readers will learn about properties of energy, how energy is measured, and major sources of energy. Primary sources show energy in action. This book will captivate young scientists.