Dr. Pramod Naik received his PhD in Physics from the University of Bombay in 1993, focusing on studies in wave-particle interactions. He then worked as a visiting lecturer for an army officers training program in petroleum management on behalf of the Indian Oil Corporation in Mumbai. Dr. Naik is currently a lecturer in physics at the Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute in Mumbai, India. He is also on the Board of Studies in Physics at Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Woman's University in Mumbai. He has published in various journals, including Astrophysics and Space Science. Dr. Naik has written four other books on physics and/or engineering, published by Narosa Publishing House, PHI Learning, Pearson, and Viva Books. He is a member of the AGU, Institute of Physics, Plasma Science Society of India and the Indian Physics Association.

Provides a compact yet comprehensive overview of the life of Meghnad Saha, who developed the theory of thermal ionization and constructed the well-known and frequently used Saha equations

Frames Saha's life in the historical context of the times in terms of the political and scientific struggles and achievements in India

Discusses the scientific work of Saha in a mostly non-technical way, so as to appeal to the general reader

Includes supplementary material: [...]

Introduction.- Science in India: Ancient and Modern.- It Was the Nineteenth Century.- Early Years.- Understanding the Atom.- Saha the Physicist.- Saha's Ionization Formula.- Saha at Allahabad.- Again in Calcutta.- Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics.- National Problems and Social Concern.- Saha and Bhabha.- Saha in Parliament.- Sudden End.- Saha and a Symbol of Excellence.- Epilogue.- References.- Appendices.