cover image No Small Matter: Science on the Nanoscale

No Small Matter: Science on the Nanoscale

Felice C. Frankel, George M. Whitesides. Belknap Press, $35 (182pp) ISBN 978-0-674-03566-9

To follow up their 1997 volume On the Surface of Things: Images of the Extraordinary in Science, scientific photographer Frankel and chemist Whitesides, both of Harvard Univ., present a game, insightful attempt to illustrate reality at the very smallest scales, where lengths are measured in billionths of a meter. Though not all the images are photomicrographic-images like cascading watersteps serve as metaphors for nano- and quantum-scale processes-Frankel's intricate work reveals a world of unexpected textures and landscapes. Whitesides contributes a page each on 60-plus subjects, including everything from ""Quantum Cascades"" and ""Laminar Flow"" to ""Soap Bubbles"" and ""Fog"" to ""Computers as Waterworks"" and ""Later Flow Assay as Crystal Ball."" His text covers the physical, but extends into the metaphysical and, occasionally, the anthropomorphic-""A cell biologist, looking at this structure, can gauge a cell's joie de vivre""-but remains clear throughout, and Frankel provides a helpful appendix describing the techniques she uses to turn invisible science subjects into vibrant art (even out of context, Frankel's photos make a striking exploration of form, line, contrast, shading and motion). This visual and intellectual treat is best absorbed at leisure, with ample time for pondering the new relationships each topic reveals. 100 color illus.