Alternative Energy, 3 Vol. Set

This three-volume set introduces researchers to issues surrounding both current energy sources and alternative energy options. While there is significant discussion of the non-renewable resources now used to meet the majority of the world's energy needs (oil, coal and natural gas), the primary focus of the set is on newer options to meet the ever-growing demand...

Three slim volumes each begin with a common introduction, overview, and glossary ("Words to Know" such as balneology, E85, Trombe wall) and end with a list of sources and a set index (where Mekong is misspelled). Eight chapters focus on specific energy sources ("Fossil Fuels," "Bioenergy," "Geothermal Energy," "Hydrogen," "Nuclear Energy," "Solar Energy," "Water Energy," and "Wind Energy"), and the last two identify the need for conservation and future and theoretical energy sources.

Chapters range from 30 to 50 pages, with lots of background on scientists who developed the technology, benefits and drawbacks, economic and societal impacts, and illustrations of use in different parts of the world. Examples give a global view. Color photos, diagrams, and sidebars are informative and attractive and add to the user's understanding. A list of sources--books, journal articles, and Web sites, mostly dated 2000 through summer 2005--is found at the end of each chapter.

Although there should be page numbers or chapter numbers on each spine and cover, the set is well-organized and clearly written and will be used in middle- and high-school libraries. Susan Gooden
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Book Description
This three-volume set introduces researchers to issues surrounding both current energy sources and alternative energy options. While there is significant discussion of the non-renewable resources now used to meet the majority of the world's energy needs (oil, coal and natural gas), the primary focus of the set is on newer options to meet the ever-growing demand. These options include wind and solar energy, fuel cells, hydropower, geothermal power and biomass energy. In addition, more theoretical sources are also explored, including cold fusion, zero point energy and universal forces. Entries discuss the science behind the energy source, notable scientists and scientific discoveries, current examples of use, and the issues, challenges and obstacles to large-scale use. Arranged alphabetically by entry name.