Who Gives a Gigabyte?
A Survival Guide for the Technologically Perplexed
- 304 pages
- English
- ePUB (mobile friendly)
- Available on iOS & Android
About this book
An exhilarating chronicle of the most revolutionary advancements in recent-and future-technology
Which new technologies are bound to have the biggest impact on our lives in the years ahead? This groundbreaking book looks at the latest technological superstars destined to reshape the upcoming century and offers easy-to-understand, engaging explanations of what they are, how they work, and how they will affect our lives. Written by a senior editor of Scientific American, the world's premier science magazine, and based on in-depth interviews with today's leading innovators as well as extensive research of the latest scientific literature, Who Gives a Gigabyte? takes you on a fast-paced tour into the brave new world of gene therapy, quantum computation, designer drugs, and recyclable cars.
Surveying the wide range of technological wonders, the authors investigate such diverse realms of scientific advancement as computing, telecommunications, laser beams, bioengineering materials, and alternative energy sources. From the Human Genome Project, which aims to spell out every letter of our genetic inheritance, to the implications of altering genes in important agricultural projects, to new strategies for attacking malignant cancer cells without the damaging side effects of traditional treatments, to the startling but still unsuccessful attempts to make computer software more like the human mind, Who Gives a Gigabyte? demystifies the technology of today and provides an enlightening glimpse into the limitless possibilities of tomorrow.
"An enjoyable and rewarding book." —Choice
"An informative overview of new and emerging technologies." —Booklist
"The reward for the reader is a solid grounding in technological literacy." —Scientific American
Frequently asked questions
- Essential is ideal for learners and professionals who enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. Access the Essential Library with 800,000+ trusted titles and best-sellers across business, personal growth, and the humanities. Includes unlimited reading time and Standard Read Aloud voice.
- Complete: Perfect for advanced learners and researchers needing full, unrestricted access. Unlock 1.4M+ books across hundreds of subjects, including academic and specialized titles. The Complete Plan also includes advanced features like Premium Read Aloud and Research Assistant.
Please note we cannot support devices running on iOS 13 and Android 7 or earlier. Learn more about using the app.
Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Title
- Copyright
- Contents
- Acknowledgments
- Introduction: Microchips and the Millennium
- 1 Computers 101: From Bits to Gigabytes and Beyond
- 2 Software: Making a Computer Bend to Your Will
- 3 Wiring the World: Telecommunications and Data Networks
- 4 Lasers: The Light Fantastic
- 5 All in the Genes: DNA Becomes an Industry
- 6 Medicine and Molecules: New Approaches to Drug Development
- 7 Spare Parts and High-Tech Flashlights: Repair Kits and Diagnostics for the Human Body
- 8 Material Improvements: Better Living through Advanced Chemistry
- 9 Mother Earth, Wind, and Fire: Energy for a Small Planet
- 10 Clean Machines: Technology and the Environment
- Conclusion: Great Expectations
- Further Reading
- Index