A01=David E. Alexander
Author_David E. Alexander
bioengineering
biophysics
Category=PSV
eq_bestseller
eq_isMigrated=1
eq_isMigrated=2
eq_nobargain
eq_non-fiction
eq_science
Product details
- ISBN 9780801867569
- Weight: 703g
- Dimensions: 152 x 229mm
- Publication Date: 03 May 2002
- Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press
- Publication City/Country: US
- Product Form: Hardback
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David E. Alexander's fascination with the many animals and plants that have harnessed the air is evident in Nature's Flyers: Birds, Insects, and the Biomechanics of Flight, a detailed account of our current scientific understanding of the primary aspects of flight in nature. Instead of relying on elaborate mathematical equations, Alexander explains the physical basis of flight with sharp prose and clear diagrams. Drawing upon bats, birds, insects, pterosaurs, and even winged seeds, he details the basic operating principles of wings and then moves progressively through more complex modes of animal flight, including gliding, flapping, and maneuvering. In addition to summarizing the latest thinking about flight's energy costs, Alexander presents a holistic view of flight and its ramifications as he explores the ecology and evolution of flying animals, addressing behaviorally important topics such as migration and navigation. With somewhat surprising answers, the author then concludes his study by examining the extent to which natural flight has been inspiring or instructive for the architects of human flight-airplane designers and engineers.
David E. Alexander is an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology at the University of Kansas.
