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Experiments, Instruments & Measurement - The Measure of All Things: The Seven-Year Odyssey and Hidden Error That Transformed the World

Description

Book Synopsis: In June 1792, amidst the chaos of the French Revolution, two intrepid astronomers set out in opposite directions on an extraordinary journey. Starting in Paris, Jean-Baptiste-Joseph Delambre would make his way north to Dunkirk, while Pierre-François-André Méchain voyaged south to Barcelona. Their mission was to measure the world, and their findings would help define the meter as one ten-millionth of the distance between the pole and the equator—a standard that would be used “for all people, for all time.” The Measure of All Things is the astonishing tale of one of history’s greatest scientific adventures. Yet behind the public triumph of the metric system lies a secret error, one that is perpetuated in every subsequent definition of the meter. As acclaimed historian and novelist Ken Alder discovered through his research, there were only two people on the planet who knew the full extent of this error: Delambre and Méchain themselves. By turns a science history, detective tale, and human drama, The Measure of All Things describes a quest that succeeded as it failed—and continues to enlighten and inspire to this day.

Details

Discover the incredible story behind the world's most fundamental unit of measurement. In "The Measure of All Things," historian and novelist Ken Alder brings to life the captivating, seven-year odyssey of two astronomers during the French Revolution. Jean-Baptiste-Joseph Delambre and Pierre-François-André Méchain embarked on a daring mission to measure the world, a journey that led to the creation of the metric system we know today. Immerse yourself in this extraordinary tale of triumph, secrecy, and scientific exploration.

Uncover the hidden error that lies at the heart of the metric system. While Delambre and Méchain successfully defined the meter as one ten-millionth of the distance between the pole and the equator, their findings were not without flaws. "The Measure of All Things" reveals the shocking truth behind the perpetuated mistake in every subsequent definition of the meter. Be prepared to have your mind opened and your understanding of history challenged as you delve into this gripping detective tale.

Join Alder on a journey that combines science, history, and human drama. "The Measure of All Things" is not just a book about measurement; it is a captivating exploration of the human spirit and the pursuit of knowledge. As you turn the pages, you'll become engrossed in the triumphs, failures, and enduring legacies of Delambre and Méchain. Their quest, both successful and flawed, continues to shape our understanding of the world and inspire curiosity in readers like you.

Don't miss out on this enlightening and inspiring read. Experience the excitement of scientific discovery and the intrigue of a hidden error that has shaped our world in ways we never imagined. Start your journey with "The Measure of All Things" today and discover the untold stories that still resonate with us. Click here to order your copy now.

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