Abstract
PROF. THURSTON, the head of Sibley College, Cornell University, ranks very high among American engineers. He is well known as the author of several widely-used text-books and of numerous important papers on engineering matters. The volume just published runs into less than one hundred pages; but in that space, energy and its transformations, and the relations between matter, force, and energy are skilfully described. The chapter which deals with the animal as a prime motor will be found attractive from many points of view, and should be read by all who have to do with the muscular work of men and animals. Among the many matters with which it is concerned are the processes of vital machines, the efficiency of the animal system, effective methods of application of power, intensity of muscular effort, dietaries, and the draught of vehicles. To a large extent the book is made up of reprints from magazines, and selections from various works; nevertheless, it contains many original and valuable points, and will add to the author's already high reputation.
The Animal as a Machine and a Prime Motor, and the Laws of Energetics.
By R. H. Thurston. Pp. 97. (New York: John Wiley and Sons. London: Kegan Paul and Co., 1894.)
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[Book Reviews]. Nature 50, 474 (1894). https://doi.org/10.1038/050474b0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/050474b0