Popular Mechanics inspires, instructs and influences readers to help them master the modern world. Whether it’s practical DIY home-improvement tips, gadgets and digital technology, information on the newest cars or the latest breakthroughs in science -- PM is the ultimate guide to our high-tech lifestyle.

There are 100 quizzes of 10 questions each, graded and colour-coded for difficulty. You can use these to test what you already know about the Earth and the Universe but they will also lead you into finding out more about the subject, as each question is accompanied by a cross-reference to the relevant pages in the reference section. These pages give you the answer to the question plus masses of other interesting information on the topic. There's also a quick answer section at the back of the book with a blank question and answer sheet. The core reference section is packed with facts on space, the Solar System and Earth's physical geography and climate. Find out how to identify different planets, stars and galaxies; learn how rivers, islands and mountains are formed; explore incredible land formations from caves to earth pillars; and marvel at Earth's incredible powers of devastation in landslides, floods and monsoons. You can either use this book as a straightforward reference source or if you simply want to browse, you will find that each fascinating piece of information leads you on to discover another and another and another...

The surprising and illuminating look at how Tolkien's love of science and natural history shaped the creation of his Middle Earth, from its flora and fauna to its landscapes. The world J.R.R. Tolkien created is one of the most beloved in all of literature, and continues to capture hearts and imaginations around the world. From Oxford to ComiCon, the Middle Earth is analyzed and interpreted through a multitude of perspectives. But one essential facet of Tolkien and his Middle Earth has been overlooked: science. This great writer, creator of worlds and unforgettable character, and inventor of language was also a scientific autodidact, with an innate interest and grasp of botany, paleontologist and geologist, with additional passions for archeology and chemistry. Tolkien was an acute observer of flora and fauna and mined the minds of his scientific friends about ocean currents and volcanoes. It is these layers science that give his imaginary universe—and the creatures and characters that inhabit it—such concreteness. Within this gorgeously illustrated edition, a range of scientists—from astrophysicists to physicians, botanists to volcanologists—explore Tolkien’s novels, poems, and letters to reveal their fascinating scientific roots. A rewarding combination of literary exploration and scientific discovery, The Science of Middle Earth reveals the hidden meaning of the Ring’s corruption, why Hobbits have big feet, the origins of the Dwarves, the animals which inspired the dragons, and even whether or not an Ent is possible. Enhanced by superb original drawings, this transportive work will delight both Tolkien fans and science lovers and inspire us to view both Middle Earth—and our own world—with fresh eyes.