Subject
Coal mines and mining Books
Best books
Homer Greene
Coal and the coal mines
"Coal and the Coal Mines" by Homer Greene is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work explores the geological processes behind coal formation, the structure of coal beds, and the development of the coal mining industry, particularly in the U.S. The book emphasizes the importance of coal as a natural resource and its historical significance to economic growth. The opening of the book introduces readers to the fundamental question of how mineral coal was formed and sets the stage for an exploration of geological history, beginning with theories like the Nebular Hypothesis. Greene discusses the layers of the Earth’s crust and the role of ancient vegetation in creating the coal deposits that we mine today. He also touches on the major geological periods, leading up to the Carboniferous age, during which the coal plants thrived, giving way to a rich narrative on the complexities and the environment that fostered the eventual creation of coal over millions of years. The text is rich in scientific detail yet aims to remain accessible, illustrating Greene's intent to provide a comprehensive understanding of coal mining’s intricate nature to a broad audience.
Charles Fitzhugh Talman
The Mentor: The Story of Coal, vol. 6, Num. 6, Serial No. 154, May 1, 1918
"The Mentor: The Story of Coal, vol. 6, Num. 6, Serial No. 154, May 1, 1918" by Charles Fitzhugh Talman is an educational publication from the early 20th century that delves into the geological and industrial significance of coal. As a part of the Mentor series, this work seeks to inform readers about the origins, types, and uses of coal while also addressing its implications for society and industry during a period when coal was a dominant energy source. The book is structured in sections that discuss the formation of coal from ancient vegetation during the Carboniferous Period, detailing the process that transformed peat into coal over millions of years. It explores the extensive coal fields in the United States, highlighting the regions rich in coal deposits, and elaborates on the history and evolution of coal mining practices. Talman emphasizes the various products derived from coal, including electricity and industrial chemicals, and examines issues like air pollution from coal combustion, safety concerns within coal mines, and the future sustainability of coal resources. Through informative prose and illustrations, the book provides a comprehensive view of coal's essential role in shaping modern energy use and industrialization.
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