Author:
Hargittai, István.
Imprint:Amherst, N.Y. : Prometheus Books, 2011.
Description338 p. : ill. ; 24 cm.
Note:"Ignorant" genius : double helix -- Pushed by personal tragedy : lifesavers -- Overcoming handicaps : MRI -- Spirit of competition : structure of proteins -- Valuing a steady job : sequencing biopolymers -- Saving time and labor : combinatorial chemistry -- Proving herself : measuring hormones in blood -- Stubbornness : "impossible" matter -- Risking reputation : conducting polymers -- Reluctant environmentalist : saving the ozone layer -- Mental exercise : polymerase chain reaction -- Doing what nature did not : "noble" compounds -- To save humankind : nuclear chain reaction -- Creating under pressure : thermonuclear explosion -- Joy of understanding : Big Bang -- Lessons, but no recipes.
Bibliography Note:Includes bibliographical references and index.
Note:This book examines the careers of fifteen eminent scientists who achieved some of the most notable discoveries of the twentieth century and uncovers a singular personality characteristic, motivational factor, or circumstance that, in addition to their extraordinary drive and curiosity, led these scientists to make outstanding contributions. --Book jacket.
