Famously packed with information on the inner workings of everything from windmills to Wi-Fi, this extraordinary and humorous book both guides readers through the fundamental principles of machines, and shows how the developments of the past are building the world of tomorrow. This sweepingly revised edition embraces all of the latest developments, from touchscreens to 3D printer. Each scientific principle is brilliantly explained with the help of a charming, if rather slow-witted, woolly mammoth. An illustrated survey of significant inventions closes the book, along with a glossary of technical terms, and an index. What possible link could there be between zippers and plows, dentist drills and windmills? Parking meters and meat grinders, jumbo jets and jackhammers, remote control and rockets, electric guitars and egg beaters? Macaulay explains them all.

"Revised and updated"--Cover. "Originally published as: The way things work". "Originally published also as: The new way things work"--T.p. verso. First edition published as: The way things work. Second edition published as: The new way things work. Includes index.

The mechanics of movement -- Harnessing the elements -- Working with waves -- Electricity & automation -- The digital domain -- Eureka! The invention of machines -- Technical terms.