Big Ideas

Alex Hutchinson is the award-winning author of the Popular Mechanics series “Know Your Footprint: Energy, Water and Waste” and a contributing editor at the magazine. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from Oxford University, and did post-doctoral research in nanoelectromechanics at a National Security Agency lab outside Washington, D.C.

From the polio vaccine to the Post-It, the personal computer to Prozac, these are the scientific and technological innovations that have transformed our world. Award-winning author Alex Hutchinson unveils the 100 greatest inventions of the modern era—starting with the discovery of the transistor in 1947—complete with original photographs and anecdotes about their creation. For example, a candy bar melting in a scientist’s pocket during an experiment led to the invention of the microwave oven.

Hutchinson consulted 25 experts at 17 museums and universities; their collective expertise spans aeronautics, automobiles, biology, computers, medicine, physics, and a host of other fields. The result includes some well-known breakthroughs (the laser, in-vitro fertilization) as well as a host of surprises (waffle-sole running shoes, the pull-top can). This charming book will delight, fascinate, and educate.

ISBN: 9781588167224
Published by: Penguin Books India