Just as water has a source and trees have roots, not a single plant, tree, or object in the universe came into being out of nothing. No matter how ancient, complex, or seemingly magical something may seem, its origins can be traced back to its source, revealing both scientific truths and fascinating anecdotes. This book explores the origins of everything from multiple perspectives, offering both scientific detail and engaging narratives. From specialized knowledge like astronomy and calendars to cutting-edge weaponry like the atomic bomb, the book presents concrete data and accessible theories for analysis and demonstration. While discussing diverse folk customs and pastimes like lucky money and playing cards, the book unravels fascinating anecdotes and legends. The book features over 200 objects, encompassing nearly every aspect of nature and society, from the origins of continents, oceans, and country names to the invention of the zipper and the origins of a postcard—everything imaginable and beyond is covered.
水有源,树有根,大千世界里的一草一木、一事一物都不是无中生有的。无论它年代多么久远,也不管它听上去多么复杂、看上去多么神奇,都可以追本溯源,发现其中蕴含着的科学道理或是趣闻逸事。本书从多角度探寻万事万物的本源,既有科学细说,又有生动趣说。讲到天文历法这样的专业知识、原子弹这样的尖端武器,会通过具体的数据、易于理解的理论来分析论证;而提到压岁钱、扑克牌这类五花八门的民俗民风和娱乐活动,则会带出一个个妙趣横生的典故或传说。书中所选的200多种事物,几乎涵盖自然界和社会生活中的各个方面,大到大洲大洋和国家名称的起源,小到一个拉链的发明、一张明信片的由来,无论是你想得到的,还是你想不到的,应有尽有。
水有源,树有根,大千世界里的一草一木、一事一物都不是无中生有的。无论它年代多么久远,也不管它听上去多么复杂、看上去多么神奇,都可以追本溯源,发现其中蕴含着的科学道理或是趣闻逸事。本书从多角度探寻万事万物的本源,既有科学细说,又有生动趣说。讲到天文历法这样的专业知识、原子弹这样的尖端武器,会通过具体的数据、易于理解的理论来分析论证;而提到压岁钱、扑克牌这类五花八门的民俗民风和娱乐活动,则会带出一个个妙趣横生的典故或传说。书中所选的200多种事物,几乎涵盖自然界和社会生活中的各个方面,大到大洲大洋和国家名称的起源,小到一个拉链的发明、一张明信片的由来,无论是你想得到的,还是你想不到的,应有尽有。