The Life and Legacy of G. I. Taylor

A biography of one of the leading scientists of the last century, first published in 1996.

G. K. Batchelor (Author)

9780521002318, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 31 July 2008

304 pages, 47 b/w illus.
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.7 cm, 0.45 kg

Review of the hardback: 'I thoroughly recommend this book as a good read for scientists and non- scientists alike.' A. G. Atkins, Endeavour

G. I. Taylor was one of the most distinguished physical scientists of the last century, using his deep insight and originality and mathematical skill to increase greatly our understanding of phenomena such as the turbulent flow of fluids. His interest in the science of fluid flow was not confined to theory; he was one of the early pioneers of aeronautics, and designed a new type of anchor, now widely used in small boats throughout the world, that came about through his passion for sailing. Taylor spent most of his working life in the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge, where he investigated the mechanics of fluid and solid materials; his discoveries and ideas have had application throughout mechanical, civil and chemical engineering, meteorology, oceanography and material science. He was also a noted research leader, and his group in Cambridge became one of the most productive centres for the study of fluid mechanics. How was Taylor able to be innovative in so many different ways? This interesting and unusual mix of science and biography, first published in 1996, helps us to answer that question.

Preface
Chronology
1. An introduction to G. I. Taylor
2. Taylor's family
3. Childhood, school and university
4. First steps in research
5. The Scotia expedition
6. Participation in the birth of aeronautics
7. Return to Cambridge after World War I
8. Sailing
9. The golden years as Yarrow Research Prof. between the wars
10. Tour in the Far East
11. Plasticity of crystalline materials
12. Turbulence: a challenge
13. Taylor's foreign peers in mechanics
14. The universal defence consultant during World War II
15. The aftermath of Taylor's war work
16. The second golden period 1951–72
17. The closing years
18. The scientific legacy of G. I. Taylor
Appendix A. An applied mathematician's apology
Appendix B. G. I. Taylor: Honours
Appendix C. Articles about G. I. Taylor
Appendix D. Bibliography of works by G. I. Taylor
Index.

Subject Areas: Fluid mechanics [PHDF], Applied mathematics [PBW]