Isaac Newton text is the most expensive science book sold to dateDecember 16, 2016 - 11:37 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Science texts aren't normally top earners at auctions, but Christie's just proved that there are major exceptions to this rule. The auction house has sold a first edition of Isaac Newton's 1687 masterpiece, Principia Mathematica, for just over $3.7 million -- the most expensive science book sold to date. It was originally estimated to sell for no more than $1.5 million, but its rarity likely helped drive the price up. This is a rare continental Europe edition, with only 80 copies published versus the 400 for Britain, Engadget said. It's not the rarest. That honor goes to Newton's original manuscript, which the Royal Society (Newton's academic home for much of his life) is likely to keep for as long as possible. Another copy bound in similar material went for a relatively modest $2.5 million back in 2013. To call Principia Mathematica important would be an understatement. It's the book where Newton sets out his laws of motion, including gravity. Many of the concepts outlined in the title would be cornerstones of physics for centuries (including today), and wouldn't be significantly questioned until the 20th century through relativity and quantum physics. They formed the basis of industrial breakthroughs, and helped explain or refine key astronomy concepts that we now take for granted: the elliptical orbits of planets, tidal effects and even the not-quite-spherical shape of the Earth. The very fact that you can read this article partly explains why Principia fetched a high price -- the technology you're using might not exist if it weren't for Newton's findings, Engadget said. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. |