How did life emerge? What are the smallest elements of matter? How are planets formed?

Over the centuries, brilliant men and women have sought to develop theories to answer the most compelling questions about the world around us. Through their amazing insights and conscientious efforts they helped to create the world we know today. In this beautifully illustrated book, Anne Rooney introduces you to the fascinating world of science and its greatest practitioners.

Ranging from evolutionary biology to quantum physics to chaos theory and featuring the ideas of such pivotal scientists as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, and Marie Curie, this essential guide will bring you up to speed on all of the world's most important scientific discoveries.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The 50 Essential Ideas series brings together entertaining, highly visual guides to different disciplines, from philosophy to physics. It explores the subject's 50 greatest ideas, giving readers an accessible overview of its defining theories and breakthroughs.