The development of universal scientific laws, physical principles, viable theories, and testable hypotheses has a long history, one which has included many errors and many exciting breakthroughs. Students can explore that fascinating history from ancient times to the present in this unique reference collection of laws, theories, and principles related to the physical and biological scientific fields. Each entry clearly defines a concept in easy-to-understand language. Discussions of the history and development behind the concepts in each entry provide students with a broad understanding of the exploratory nature of science, how conclusions are drawn and how the study of science affects our lives.

The development of universal scientific laws, physical principles, viable theories, and testable hypotheses has a long history, one which has included many errors and many exciting breakthroughs. Students can explore that fascinating history from ancient times to the present in this unique reference collection of laws, theories, and principles related to the physical and biological scientific fields. Each entry clearly defines a concept in easy to understand language. Discussions of the history and development behind the concepts in each entry provide students with a broad understanding of the exploratory nature of science, how conclusions are drawn, and how the study of science affects our lives.

Entries are arranged alphabetically according to the name of the person credited with formulating the theory or concept. Each entry includes the name of the person who proposed the law, principle, or theory; the place where it was developed; and the time period in which it was developed. Narrative discussions explain how the scientist drew his or her conclusions and how it impacted both the scientific world as well as the world outside of science. Detailed definitions of law, principle, and theory are provided to aid readers in distinguishing among the three, and a topic and scientist index, as well as a glossary of terms, further enhance ease of use for students and interested readers.