Synopsis
U.X.L responds to requests from librarians and teachers to bring you Chemical Elements. This new 3-vol. title provides in-depth, current and accurate information on 112 known chemical elements, plus coverage on elements 113 through 118 (known to exist but not yet discovered).
Entries describe how the element was discovered and by whom, the element's practical role in everyday life and who or what it is named after and more.
Chemical Elements covers this complex topic in an easy-to-understand language that is accessible enough for younger and middle school students, yet appropriate for high school students, too. Sidebars spotlight well-known products containing the element, trivia on famous events relating to the element, definitions of difficult words and more. Other useful tools include a timetable of events, glossary of terms, general bibliography, periodic table endsheets, 200 black-and-white illustrations and an 8-page color photo insert in each volume.
VOYA
This jewel of a reference is by far the best of the UXL publications that this reviewer has seen. Relating stuffy sounding names of elements and an ominous periodic chart to real life is often difficult for youth. This three-volume set provides much information on each element that is often difficult for students and teachers to find. The beauty of the periodic table as an organizing tool is brought to life by relating the elements to others in the same groupings, while describing the elements alphabetically. A student can find the definition of word in a sidebar on the same page as the text for the element, in addition to a glossary at the beginning of the volume. A diagram showing the electron configuration accompanies the text for each element. A time line for discovery of the elements and references to historical events such as the Gold Rush and Oklahoma City bombing relate the elements to history. Applications to modern medicine and technology are frequently cited and illustrated. The organization of each entry simplifies locating specific information within each discussion. Youth of all ages will find the text inviting and readable, but comprehensive. My life as a science teacher would have been easier with this reference. It is a must-have for any library serving science teachers or students, not just for the reference shelf, but to be savored outside the library. Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos. Biblio. Chronology.