What is an otolith? Where are the Caledonian granites of Ireland and Scotland? And who has been shortlisted for the centenary Boyle Medal?

The answers to these and many more interesting questions are to be found in the recently-published The Irish Scientist 1999 Year Book, which boast over 200 pages and 430 colour illustrations.

Science teachers will be clapping their hands with glee at the sight of this glossy publication, which is being widely distributed and sent to every second-level school library in the State courtesy of the Department of Education and Science.

Inside articles include summaries of winning projects from the UCD Merville lay seminars and descriptions of science projects by 28 of the young scientists who took part in the Esat Telecom Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition and Competition.