Big Ideas: 100 Modern Inventions That Have Transformed Our World

From the polio vaccine to the Post-It, the personal computer to Prozac, these are the scientific and technological innovations that have transformed our world. Award-winning author Alex Hutchinson unveils the 100 greatest inventions of the modern era—starting with the discovery of the transistor in 1947—complete with original photographs and anecdotes about their creation. For example, a candy bar melting in a scientists pocket during an experiment led to the invention of the microwave oven.

Hutchinson consulted 25 experts at 17 museums and universities; their collective expertise spans aeronautics, automobiles, biology, computers, medicine, physics, and a host of other fields. The result includes some well-known breakthroughs (the laser, in-vitro fertilization) as well as a host of surprises (waffle-sole running shoes, the pull-top can). This charming book will delight, fascinate, and educate.