Handbook of Geoscience

Frank R. Spellman is the author or co-author of more than 70 books on the natural sciences, as well as environmental and health sciences. He has served as a consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice, a variety of law firms, and a number of non-governmental organizations on environmental issues and health-related matters. He is formerly an assistant professor of environmental health at Old Dominion University.Melissa L. Stoudt is a radiation controls training instructor at an atomic power laboratory. Previously, she instructed students and officers of the US Navy in proper radiation controls and handling of radioactive material. She is coauthor of Nuclear Infrastructure Protection and Homeland Security (Scarecrow Press 2011).

This reference work—a compilation of key facts related to earth science—provides a broad overview of all aspects of geoscience. Authors Spellman and Stoudt possess complementary backgrounds. Spellman earned a PhD in environmental engineering and has written more than 70 books on environmental matters. An expert in the demanding area of radiation controls, Stoudt has provided instruction to naval officers and to technicians at an atomic power laboratory. The authors’ collaboration has produced a reference book notable for its readability and utility. Incorporating relevant math operations and conceptual terminology, the volume surveys the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, pedosphere, and related areas. Force and motion; work, energy, and momentum; and circular motion and gravity receive their due. Sample entries include Acceleration, Biological diversity, Ecosystem, Evapotranspiration, Geodesy, Lentic habitat, Troposphere, Weathering, and Wind farms. The topically arranged entries range in length from a single paragraph to several pages. Example-driven definitions clarify many concepts. Sidebars provide ballast to the survey; for example, we learn that without plankton, there would be no living organisms on earth. Select black-and-white line drawings, photographs, and illustrations punctuate the text. A listing of references and recommended reading are provided at the end of each section. Appendixes include a 42-page glossary and a 9-page subject index. Undergraduates and general readers will find The Handbook of Geoscience up-to-date, accessible, and reliable. The clarity and economy of language of the presentation will appeal to nonspecialists. The work’s scope and command of data render it a useful addition to general reference collections.