The peaceful atom

The book introduces atoms as the tiny building blocks of matter and surveys their structure and behavior, explaining radiation and radioactivity in accessible terms. It traces how scientists investigated atomic rays and discovered isotopes, describes instruments such as the Geiger counter, and explores practical, nonmilitary applications of atomic phenomena: generation of power, use of radioisotopes as tracers in industry, agriculture and medicine, carbon-14 dating, and irradiation to change materials. Chapters outline atomic energy for transport and manufacturing, give examples of everyday tracer techniques, and include an appendix and glossary to clarify technical terms.