is not just a collection of facts and theories that appear out of thin air, but is primarily a process developed over hundreds, if not thousands, of years by many men and women from very different cultures. Many of the same concepts that students try to grasp today perplexed ancient scientists and philosophers in the past, such as when and how the size of the Earth was first accurately measured, how we measure the distance to the Sun and the nearest stars, and other interesting questions. Science also has a rich connection with history. For example, how did an incorrect estimate for the size of the Earth enable Columbus to persuade Spain's King Ferdinand to fund his voyage of discovery in 1942? Why did it take so long for Copernicus heliocentric model of the solar system to be finally accepted by the public? This book tries to answer these questions along with many others. The text also provides students with a framework for basic concepts in physical science, including measurement and units, kinematics and forces, electricity and magnetism, light and waves, energy and heat, nuclear and atomic physics, astronomy, geology, weather and climate, and finally, basic chemistry.

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