How to Build a Habitable Planet

By Wallace S Broecker
Review by Amy (Earth Sciences)

There are billions of planets in our galaxy alone and an infinite number in the universe but so far ours is the only one with known life. Why is this? What is it that makes the Earth so perfect for life?

How to Build a Habitable Planet gives an overview of the history of the Earth, its formation and continued development. In this book are perfect summaries of the multiple theories surrounding aspects of our solar system, including the formation of our moon and the source of energy for the melt of the interior of the Earth. In addition to the planet’s history, this book also explains why it is that the Earth is so perfect for life. It explores the many interlinking factors that balance perfectly to form the atmosphere and temperature we need in order to survive.

While the book explains fact in a way that is accessible to everyone, certain chapters delve into chemical compositions and specific scientific theories, applying well-known principles to a large and unknown scale. Building chapter on chapter, How to Build a Habitable Planet provides the reader with a thorough understanding of the Earth and its features. If you have specific areas of interest, you can dip in and out easily without the need for any prior reading or knowledge. While formal in style, this book is a fascinating read which I would recommend to anyone, regardless of their field of interest or prior knowledge. Although it may not cover specific aspects of the degree course, the general understanding and appreciation of the Earth and its processes it provides is invaluable.

How to Build a Habitable Planet by Wallace S Broecker
ISBN-10: 0691140065
ISBN-13: 978-0691140063

Try checking the availability of this book at your school or local library or explore second hand bookshops and websites. You may also wish to purchase from either Amazon or Blackwell’s.

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