The periodic table of elements is not only one of the greatest scientific achievements in human history, but also a treasure trove of stories full of passion, adventure, competition, betrayal, romance and persistence.
Beryllium, which tastes sweet, can trick our taste buds like sugar;
Cyanide, which smells like bitter almonds, is actually the poison that brings death;
Aluminum was once a metal more precious than gold and was used by the French royal family to entertain their most distinguished guests;
Tin will strangely turn into powder in extremely cold environments, making Scott's Antarctic expedition impossible to return;
Carbon and silicon have similar chemical properties, but why have no "silicon-based organisms" been found in the universe?
Mendeleev's creation of the periodic table of elements was actually inspired by a card game?
Marie Curie named the radioactive element polonium to express her love for her motherland, Poland;
The chemical genius Haber creatively synthesized nitrogen fertilizers to benefit mankind, but later developed poison gas in the war, which earned him eternal infamy...
"A Feast of the Elements" is the masterpiece of the famous American popular science writer Sam Keen.
In this book, he traces the wonderful history of chemical exploration behind the periodic table of elements with a very tense narrative rhythm, and tells the legendary stories and wonderful chemical properties of each element in a lively and attractive way.
Reader comments
The author Sam Keane brought the story behind the periodic table of elements to life, which reminded me of all the experiences I had when starting my own business. It was really full of passion and challenges! I am particularly inspired by the persistence and discoveries of those scientists. I think this book is not only suitable for people who are interested in chemistry, but also for all friends who like to explore the unknown. Recommend!
The author Sam Keane brought the story behind the periodic table of elements to life, which reminded me of all the experiences I had when starting my own business. It was really full of passion and challenges! I am particularly inspired by the persistence and discoveries of those scientists. I think this book is not only suitable for people who are interested in chemistry, but also for all friends who like to explore the unknown. Recommend!