Fire Under the Sea: The Discovery of the Most Extraordinary Environment on Earth-Volcanic Hot Springs on the Ocean Floor

From Publishers Weekly Cone, who teaches science writing at Oregon State University, here offers a rare look at scientific discovery in progress. His smooth, evenhanded reporting compresses some 30 years of spectacular efforts from scientists working with ingenious machines-- and offers a "new paradigm" for earth sciences. The discovery of superheated seawater vents along ocean floor faultlines has not yet yielded "the origins of life," but Cone provides jolts of sheer wonder and a successful model of science at work on a true frontier. Illustrations not seen by PW. Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. From Library Journal In 1977, scientists discovered a previously unknown environment in the undersea hot springs on the Galapagos Rift. Cone, a science writer, conveys the excitement of finding this new world of life in a lively style. He describes diving expeditions in the submersible Alvin and puts into perspective the politics behind the funding of scientific projects. He also discusses the development of the theories of continental drift and plate tectonics, the discovery of the midocean ridge system, and advances in geological and geophysical techniques that provide three-dimensional views of the earth's interior. Covering some of the same territory as V.A. Kaharl's Water Baby: The Story of Alvin ( LJ 10/15/90), the present volume has a wider focus and will appeal to young aspiring scientists as well as to adult readers. Copious notes, an 11-page bibliography, and a list of the 68 interviewees are included. Purchase where interest in the subject warrants.