Bibliograph

The physics of Christmas, from the aerodynamics of reindeer to the thermodynamics of turkey, Roger Highfield

Type

Label

The physics of Christmas, from the aerodynamics of reindeer to the thermodynamics of turkey, Roger Highfield

Language

eng

Bibliography note

Includes bibliographical references (p. 288-295) and index

Index

index present

Literary Form

non fiction

Main title

The physics of Christmas

Nature of contents

bibliography

Oclc number

42877882

Responsibility statement

Roger Highfield

Sub title

from the aerodynamics of reindeer to the thermodynamics of turkey

Summary

Can reindeer fly? Why is Santa Claus fat? Was the Star of Bethlehem really a comet? Will scientists succeed in creating the perfect Christmas tree by cloning? How do snowflakes form, and what could we do to guarantee an annual White Christmas? How does Santa manage to deliver presents to an estimated 842 million households in a single night? Why is Rudolph's nose red? These are among the questions explored in an irresistibly witty book that illuminates the cherished rituals, legends, and icons of Christmas from a unique and fascinating perspective: Science

Table Of Contents

Christmas and the scientist : an introduction -- Santa and those reindeer -- The flame and tree -- Giving and shopping -- Festive fare -- Gluttony : Santa's genetics -- The Bethlehem star -- Snow -- Christmas spirit -- Christmas blues and seasonal moods -- Santa's science -- Christmas 2020 -- Appendix 1: The formula for Christmas Day -- Appendix 2: Is faith good for you?

Classification