This is an annual roundup of the amazing breakthroughs in science and technology. The McGraw-Hill Yearbook of Science & Technology 2012 continues its tradition of making information on the latest advances in science and technology accessible to the nonspecialist through concise, richly illustrated articles. With entries written by international leaders in their respective fields, this new edition covers a broad range of scientific and technical disciplines from Astronomy to Zoology. 190 experts in science and technology keep you informed about key developments and trends in more than 50 major disciplines. Its coverage includes forefront topics in areas such as biomedical sciences; cell and molecular biology; computer science; environmental science; genetics; materials science and engineering; neuroscience; polymer chemistry; theoretical physics; and, more. 300 images, two-color illustrations, and charts complement and enhance the text. An extensive index makes finding information easy. This title features numerous cross-references to the McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science & Technology, 10th Edition, in each article for background reading as well as references to key literature. All articles are invited, reviewed, and signed to ensure quality of content, then edited and illustrated to ensure comprehensibility for the nonspecialist reader.