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Energy and civilization : a history

Smil, Vaclav2018
Books
Energy is the only universal currency; it is necessary for getting anything done. The conversion of enery on Earth ranges from terra-forming forces of plate tectonics to cumulative erosive effects of raindrops. Life on Earth depends on the photosynthetic condersion of solar energy into plant biomass. Humans have come to rely on many more energy flows - ranging from fossil fuels to photovoltaic generation of electricity - for their civilized existence. In this monumental history, Vaclav Smil provides a comprehensive account of how energy has shaped society, from pre-agricultual foraging societies, through today's fossil fuel-driven civilization.
Main title:
Author:
Smil, Vaclav, author
Edition:
[Revised edition].
Imprint:
Cambridge, Massachusetts : The MIT Press, 2018.
Collation:
vii, 552 pages : illustrations ; 23 cm
Notes:
This edition originally published: 2017.Includes bibliographical references and index.
Audience:
Specialized.
ISBN:
9780262536165 (pbk. :)
Dewey class:
333.7909333.79
Language:
English
BRN:
1286886
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