Vladimir Arnold was a major Russian mathematician and popularizer of mathematics. In this short book, a collection of his essays on the relationship between observation ("science") and the deeper underlying mathematical reality is gathered. Topics covered are amazingly diverse. While the majority pertain to physics, Arnold's erudition and insight extend from the big questions of large-scale astronomy (Percolation and the Hydrodynamics of the Universe) to small observational astronomy and orbital mechanics (planetary rings, orbital eccentricities); from planetary science (glacial flows, rainbows and water depth) to everyday machinery (bicycles, glass jars and bridges); and many other subjects. Each short essay is written with Arnold's characteristic clarity and many are accompanied by his original illustrations. This is a wonderful introduction to both mathematics as it applies to physical nature and a mind of amazing caliber and capability for abstraction. Annotation ©2015 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)