How Long to Read Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone

How Long Does it Take to Read Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone?

It takes the average reader 10 hours and 20 minutes to read Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone by Wilfried B. Holzapfel

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

While preparing to carve an unusual sculpture from a stump in his front yard, a professor of physics is interrupted by two first-year students at the university where he teaches. When the students ask him about his project, the professor describes the future sculpture as a three-dimensional representation of the way a sample of each chemical element reacts when high pressure is applied to it. That is not at all what the students were expecting to hear. They somewhat reluctantly agree to sign up for a consultation hour with the professor so that he can explain the concept in greater detail. When the professor describes his research in the area of high-pressure solid-state-physics as "modern alchemy", the students are hooked! One of them has been contemplating a career in science or technology, the other is planning to concentrate on liberal arts and philosophy. This appears to be a unique opportunity that offers something for each of them and a chance to expand their common knowledge and friendship. The professor and the students review the history of medieval alchemy as the basis for modern science. They compare the challenges faced by the ancient philosophers to the obstacles of modern scientists. He introduces the students to his version of a modern alchemist's "philosopher's stone", a device with which he is able to change the properties of the elements and make them take on different character. He leads this students on exploratory "journeys" across the Periodic Table of the Elements. They compare the different behavior and discover new relationships. The students converse about the "mystical" modern ideas that the professor introduces along the way; e.g., quantum chemistry and physics. He never resorts to formal, mathematical theory in their circumnavigation of the "world of high pressure". In the end, the students feel "enlightened" in the true alchemical sense, ready for their own journey into the modern world of science and philosophy.

How long is Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone?

Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone by Wilfried B. Holzapfel is 606 pages long, and a total of 155,136 words.

This makes it 205% the length of the average book. It also has 190% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 14 hours and 7 minutes to read Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone aloud.

What Reading Level is Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone?

Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone?

Modern Alchemy and the Philosopher's Stone by Wilfried B. Holzapfel is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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