The Origin of the Earth

First published in 1953, as the second edition of a 1951 original, this book was written for the general reader by the renowned Scottish astronomer William Marshall Smart (1889?1975). The text presents an accessible account of the history of earth, incorporating the contributions of astronomy, physics, chemistry, geology and biology within the main theme. Numerous illustrative figures are also included. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the development of earth and the history of science.

1. Introduction; Part I. Whence?: 2. General description of the solar system; 3. General description of the Earth; 4. General description of the moon and planets; 5. A provisional summing-up; Part II. When?: 6. The geological record and the conflict with physical science; 7. Radioactivity to the rescue; 8. The astronomical evidence; Part III. How?: 9. From the nebular hypothesis to the present day; 10. Epilogue; Index.