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John Barnett

Carbon: One Atom's Odyssey

Carbon: One Atom's Odyssey

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  • More about Carbon: One Atom's Odyssey


Carbon is a short story by Italian chemist, writer, and Auschwitz survivor Primo Levi that follows the life story and molecular manifestations of a single atom of this life-essential element. It traces one atom from its birth 14 billion years ago to its journey on planet Earth, where it has become a basic building block of nearly 10 million known compounds in living things.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 12 May 2021
Publisher: No Starch Press,US


An illustrated adaptation of Carbon, a short story from Italian chemist, writer, and Auschwitz survivor Primo Levi. It traces the life story and many molecular manifestations of a single atom of this life-essential element. You'll follow one atom from its spectacular birth 14 billion years ago through its harrowing journey on planet Earth, where it has become a basic building block of nearly 10 million known compounds in living things.


The story begins with a brief introduction to the history and importance of carbon, followed by a description of the molecular structure of carbon and its unique properties. It then delves into the life story of a single atom of carbon, from its birth in a supernova to its eventual formation of carbon compounds in living things. Throughout the story, Levi provides detailed explanations of the molecular processes involved in carbon formation, including the formation of carbon chains, rings, and complexes.


The book also includes numerous illustrations and diagrams that help to visualize the molecular structures and processes described in the text. These illustrations are particularly useful for students and researchers in the fields of chemistry, physics, and biology, as they provide a visual representation of the complex molecular world.


Overall, Carbon is a fascinating and informative book that provides a deep understanding of the life story and molecular manifestations of a single atom of this life-essential element. It is a must-read for anyone interested in chemistry, physics, and biology, as well as for anyone who wants to learn more about the history and importance of carbon.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 223 x 285 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781718501225

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