Only in the early 19th century did scientists recognize that energy is a distinct physical quantity. Since then, however, it has played a pivotal role in the advancement and the understanding of science and in technology. From the steam engine to the equation e=mc2 and beyond, the concept of energy offers an essential key to our understanding of the Universe.

In this entertaining and highly readable book, Professor Laidler explains the concept of energy and its characteristics as they were discovered over the past two centuries. He describes how energy transformations, as interpreted by the second law of thermodynamics, are not absolute but can only be understood in terms of chance and probability. After looking at energy on a small scale and then at the scale of the Universe itself, he shows how these topics are linked with chaos theory according to which the unexpected is inevitable.

Written for the general reader with an interest in science, the development and interrelationship of the concepts of energy, chance and chaos are set in their historical context, and illuminated by accounts of the key scientists involved and of some of their investigations.

Keith J. Laidler's profile page

Keith J. Laidler is Professor Emeritus of Chemistry at the University of Ottawa. He has received many honours and awards and is the author of several textbooks on physical chemistry.

'Even nonspecialist readers will find much to enjoy in the first chapter which explores the broad sweep of the subject and looks at the impressive contributions that it has made at the interface of pure research and technology . . . carefully researched and scholarly volume . . . Laidler has provided a masterly survey of the field, which will help to put the record straight in many backwaters of the subject and in not a few estuaries too.' Review by Peter Atkins of 'The World of Physical Chemistry' in Nature, October 1993

'This is one of those rare books, a privilege to review. that within minutes of opening you realise is written with authority, enthusiasm, insight, and great style - in short a book you will enjoy and treasure. This . . . will surely become a classic and I highly recommend it for individual purchase by all serious chemists, teachers and students for edification and pleasure.' Review by Thorburn Burns of 'The World of Physical Chemistry' in Chemistry in Britain, March 1994

'Review from other book by this author The format of the book is attractive, and its argument provides a[n] . . . introductory exposition of topics in the history of science.' Review of 'To Light Such a Candle' in Nature, January 1998