Contains more than 2,000 entries ranging from short definitions to major overviews of concepts in all areas of science.

The Gale Encyclopedia of Science, Third Edition has been designed with ease of use and ready reference in mind.

• Entries are alphabetically arranged across six volumes, in a single sequence, rather than by scientific field
• Length of entries varies from short definitions of one or two paragraphs, to longer, more detailed entries on more complex subjects.
• Longer entries are arranged so that an overview of the subject appears first, followed by a detailed discussion conveniently arranged under subheadings.
• A list of key terms is provided where appropriate to define unfamiliar terms or concepts.
• Bold-faced terms direct the reader to related articles.
• Longer entries conclude with a “Resources” section, which points readers to other helpful materials (including books, periodicals, and Web sites).
• The author’s name appears at the end of longer entries. His or her affiliation can be found in the “Contributors” section at the front of each volume.
• “See also” references appear at the end of entries to point readers to related entries.
• Cross references placed throughout the encyclopedia direct readers to where information on subjects without their own entries can be found.
• A comprehensive, two-level General Index guides readers to all topics, illustrations, tables, and persons mentioned in the book.