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The Devil'S Element: Phosphorus And A World Out Of Balance,Used
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A New Yorker Best Book of 2023 A Smithsonian Staff Favorite of 2023The New York Times bestselling author on the source of great bountyand now great perilall over the world.Phosphorus has played a critical role in some of the most lethal substances on earth: firebombs, rat poison, nerve gas. But its also the key component of one of the most vital: fertilizer, which has sustained life for billions of people. In this major work of explanatory science and environmental journalism, Pulitzer Prize finalist Dan Egan investigates the past, present, and future of what has been called the oil of our time.The story of phosphorus spans the globe and vast tracts of human history. First discovered in a seventeenthcentury alchemy lab in Hamburg, it soon became a highly soughtafter resource. The race to mine phosphorus took people from the battlefields of Waterloo, which were looted for the bones of fallen soldiers, to the fabled guano islands off Peru, the Bone Valley of Florida, and the sand dunes of the Western Sahara. Over the past century, phosphorus has made farming vastly more productive, feeding the enormous increase in the human population. Yet, as Egan harrowingly reports, our overreliance on this vital crop nutrient is today causing toxic algae blooms and dead zones in waterways from the coasts of Florida to the Mississippi River basin to the Great Lakes and beyond. Egan also explores the alarming reality that diminishing access to phosphorus poses a threat to the food system worldwidewhich risks rising conflict and even war.With The Devils Element, Egan has written an essential and eyeopening account that urges us to pay attention to one of the most perilous but littleknown environmental issues of our time.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: This book has two hundred fifty-six pages. It's a comprehensive exploration of phosphorus and its impact on the environment.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six point three inches in length, one inch in width, and nine point four one inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard hardcover size.
- Q: Is the binding type hardcover or paperback? A: The binding type is hardcover. This ensures durability and a premium feel for readers.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Dan Egan. He is a New York Times best-selling author known for his environmental journalism.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: This book belongs to the engineering genre. It delves into scientific and environmental themes surrounding phosphorus.
- Q: What is the main topic of the book? A: The main topic is phosphorus and its dual role as both a critical nutrient and a source of environmental peril. It highlights historical and contemporary issues.
- Q: How can I apply this book's knowledge? A: You can apply this book's knowledge to understand the importance of phosphorus in agriculture and environmental health. It encourages awareness of sustainability issues.
- Q: Is this book suitable for casual readers? A: Yes, this book is suitable for casual readers. It presents complex topics in an engaging and accessible way.
- Q: What age group is this book appropriate for? A: This book is appropriate for adults and older teens. It discusses environmental issues that are relevant to informed citizens.
- Q: How should I care for this hardcover book? A: To care for this hardcover book, keep it in a dry place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight. This will help maintain its condition.
- Q: Is this book safe for children? A: No, this book is not specifically aimed at children. It contains complex themes about environmental issues that may not be suitable for younger audiences.
- Q: What do I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for return or exchange options. Most sellers have policies in place for such situations.
- Q: Can I return this book if I don't like it? A: Yes, you can typically return this book if you are not satisfied. Check the seller's return policy for specific details.
- Q: Does this book contain any illustrations or images? A: No, this book primarily contains text. It focuses on the narrative and scientific explanation rather than visual aids.
- Q: Where can I buy this book? A: You can buy this book from major retailers like Amazon or directly from the publisher, W. W. Norton & Company.
- Q: What is the publishing company for this book? A: The publishing company for this book is W. W. Norton & Company. They are known for publishing a variety of quality literature.