Computer science is a rapidly growing discipline that continues to awe, inspire, and challenge all those who interact with its many elements and capabilities. Exploring six prominent topics in computer science research, this revised edition describes how scientists conduct research and formulate possible answers to important questions. With the rapid development and incorporation of advanced technology in our daily lives, this field is constantly expanding and lending itself to many scientific fields such as medicine and environmental science. Students will gain an understanding of the basic concepts of the field, while discussing the background and context essential for the big picture of computer science in the 21st century. This revised edition is great for any middle and high school students interested in the world of computer science and technology. Chapters include Advanced Computers; Artificial Neural Networks-Computing with "Brainy" Technology; Computational Complexity and Solving Problems Efficiently; Encryption and Decryption-Making and Breaking Codes and Ciphers; Computer Vision-Creating Machines That Can See; and Bioinformatics-Using Computers to Explore Biological Data.