Reactions: An Illustrated Exploration of Elements, Molecules, and Change in the Universe

Abstract

Reactions: An Illustrated Exploration of Elements, Molecules, and Change in the Universe by Theodore Gray is reviewed.

Reactions: An Illustrated Exploration of Elements, Molecules, and Change in the Universe Theodore Gray, Black Dog & Leventhal, New York, NY, $29.99,240 pages, Oct. 2017, ISBN: 978-0-316-39122-1

This third installment continues a journey through the molecular and chemical world that started with a look at elements and molecules. Now, this stop on the journey focuses on reactions through clear and thoughtful pictures and explanations.

The author uses his photography and storytelling skills to demonstrate how molecules interact in ways that are essential to our very existence. The book begins with a brief recap of elements and molecules and then explains important concepts that characterize a chemical reaction, including energy, entropy, and time. Chapters include Fantastic Reactions and Where to Find Them; On the Origin of Light and Color; The Boring Chapter, which discusses reactions such as paint drying, grass growing, and water boiling; and The Need for Speed, which covers topics such as weather, ignition, and fire.