Book Description

The acknowledged leader and standard in general chemistry, this book maintains its effective and proven features—clarity of writing, scientific integrity, currency, strong exercises, visual emphasis and consistency in presentation. It offers readers an integrated educational solution to the challenges of the learning with an expanded media program that works in concert with the book, helping them to approach problem solving, visualization, and applications with greater success.Chapter topics cover: Matter and Measurement; Atoms, Molecules, and Ions; Stoichiometry: Calculations with Chemical Formulas and Equations; Aqueous Reactions and Solution Stoichiometry; Thermochemistry; Electronic Structure of Atoms; Periodic Properties of the Elements; Basic Concepts of Chemical Bonding; Molecular Geometry and Bonding Theories; Gases; Intermolecular Forces, Liquids, and Solids; Modern Materials; Properties of Solutions; Chemical Kinetics; Chemical Equilibrium; Acid-Base Equilibria; Additional Aspects of Equilibria; Chemistry of the Environment; Chemical Thermodynamics; Electrochemistry; Nuclear Chemistry; Chemistry of the Nonmetals; Metals and Metallurgy; Chemistry of Coordination Compounds; and The Chemistry of Life: Organic and Biological Chemistry.For individuals interested in the study of general chemistry. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Chemistry: The Central Science, 9th edition
I found this book to be very easy to read and follow. There are lots of pictures, diagrams, graphs, and tables which aide in understandin the text. There are review sections and questions at the end of every chapter so it is easy to tell if you have learned the material or not, plus you get plenty of practice. It covers all the basic advanced highschool chemistry and is a great book to go through before freshmen level chemistry in college. Overall this book is an excellent learning tool weather you are using it in a class or just using it for a reference for upper level chemistry classes.

classic text
This text is widely used and has helped many students to understand chemistry. The sequence of topics presented is traditional. It has a good chapter on modern materials. The dual-column format of examples clearly shows problem solving strategies.

This, and all other similar textbooks, are written for studnents who have appropriate background in high school sciences and reasonable reading comprehension. It is not fair to compare this book with a teacher whom you can talk face to face. Considering the poor reading skills of today's college students, most of whom have hard time with any materals written at 8th grade readability level and do have no idea on how to read and use a textbook, it is impossible for any textbook to do the magic of enlightening them.

The companion website of this text has thousands of problems available for practice, much more than most other similar textbook websites. Learning chemistry is like learning how to play tennis. You can't expect to learn how to play tennis by watching tennis matches on TV. Similarly, you can't expect to learn chemistry by simply reading the textbook or watching your professors solve problems in class. You have to practice. If this is the text you are using, take advantage of this good resource. Students using other texts are not as lucky as you are.

For a slightly more engaging text, see the one by Moore, Stanitski and Jurs.

Chemistry, the Central Science.
I am a teacher using this book for an AP Chem class. I have found the book very difficult to use. Topics are rather disconnected and most of my students had trouble following the logic of more difficult subjects. The early chapters are particularly difficult. I have also found numerous mistakes with the materials available to teachers. The number of errors on the power point presentations are ridiculous. I also questions some of the answers with regards to the use of significant fiqures.

The Web Site is excellent even though I only use the standard version and not the electronic chapters. The solution manual is so-so. Sometimes shortcuts are used without explanation which is dangerous for AP students.

I would not recommend this book for use in the high school classroom from the point of view of both the teacher using the books and materials and the student attempting to learn from the book.

There must be a better book out there
The only reason I got A's in Gen. Chemistry 1& 2 is because I had a FANTASTIC teacher (thank you François). This book makes Chemistry harder to understand than it should be. I recommend this book to insomniacs who like to get headaches!

Well done intro to Chemistry
This text is a great introduction for students just beginning their study of chemistry at either the advanced highschool or college freshman level. Every chapter has a review and questions so that the reader is able to verify how much (or indeed how little) they have learned. It's easy to read and quite thorough, and for someone in a science field it's also a great reference to keep on hand for when those basic details begin to slip. I found myself consulting it frequently as I prepared for my MCAT examination, and it still has a place in my science library. As for the CD-Rom, I'm sure it's lovely, but I've never even put it in the computer. Overall a worthwhile purchase if you need a chem text. ... Read more

Book Description

In a highly accessible fashion, this top-sellingbook bridges the gap between conceptual understanding and actual application—while strongly emphasizing the development of problem-solving skills.The book focuses on traditional organic chemistry topics and offers up-to-date aspects of spectroscopy, relevant photographs, and many applications to polymer chemistry integrated throughout the book. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

An excellent book for undergraduate
Skip Wade did a very good job in explaining Organic Chemistry concepts. Glossary and problem sets put in the end of each chapters are very good .They really help you understand the concept more. I recommend you to also buy the Solution Manual.

Fantastic!
The author has done an excellent job presenting the material in this textbook. The use of colored text and invaluable illustrations really make the lessons clear. There is no need to highlight or make side notes (something I often do) because the text is organized so well. The problems at the end of every section make you focus on what the author is trying to convey. By doing these problems religiously organic chemistry is easier to understand and can actually be fun (well, relatively at least).

Note: I recommend getting a really cheap used 4th edition solutions manual to go with the 5th edition book. There are very few differences and it is VERY helpful in terms of understanding where you're going astray with those end-of-section problems. This manual contains helpful explanations, not just answers to problems.

Overall "Organic Chemistry 5th Edition" is one of the best scientific textbooks I have ever seen.

Easy to understand organic chemistry book?
This textbook is excellent. It makes organic chemistry much easier. The illustrations are great. The book goes step by step, so you don't get lost.

You should read the chapters in order. The concepts and terminology build up from previous chapters and you'll be lost without them. Unfortunately, all the teachers I've had jump around a lot. The most important chapter in this regard is chapter 6. You won't know what the book is talking about in later chapters without reading this one. The earlier chapters are just as important to read, but instructors tend to not skip them as often.

Also, the solutions manual could be better. It sometimes gives no information about how the answer was solved.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this book. It is much better than any other organic chemistry book I've ever read.

Organic Chemistry Solutions Manual by Jan Simek
I began self-studying organic chemistry several months ago using two textbooks along with the accompanying solutions manuals which I had selected because they were being used by two local colleges.
A couple of months ago I read the reveiws about Wade's textbook and Simek's accompanying solutions manual in this space and decided to give them a try. In my opinion, both books are far superior to the books I started with.
I strongly disagree with the reviewer who wrote that the line drawings make the solutions manual hard to follow.

Organic Certified!
L.G. "Skip" Wade has done an exceptional job at writing a textbook in probably the most merciless field of human endeavor. First, the physical aspect of the book is worth noting; the illustration is pleasant yet remain faithful to the scientific accuracy it wishes to convey. The glossy paper is sturdy, preventing the frequent mishaps of tear and wear so common to the undergraduate life.

Wade does not condescend as an author (a particular attribute that probably increases the likeability of an author/professor) ; he matter-of-factly admits to having made a "C" on his second organic test, a testament to the difficulty of the subject. He acknowledges the difficulty of organic chemistry, he concurs to the fact that memorization is indeed required, yet he offers the comforting assurance that organic chemistry is indeed the logical subject it has always been touted to be, as evidenced by the structured organization of the book.

The book begins with a review of general chemistry (Lewis structure, acids and bases, molecular orbitals, and the like) and sets to introduce briefly the electron-pushing principle so fundamental to organic chemistry. Alkane is covered next, introducing the concept of conformational analysis, polarity, intermolecular forces, and general introduction the other functional groups. The next chapter is on the study of chemical reactions, followed by stereochemistry (perhaps the hardest chapter). Maybe it is safe to suggest that the most logical part (fundamental principles) of organic chemistry resides in these first five chapters, while the dreadful memorization will soon ensue.

Chapter 6 onwards introduces the major functional groups (alkyl halides, alkene, alcohols, alkynes), where the general trend is to present the nomenclature, the uses, the synthesis, and the mechanism; in that order. Accompanying summary of informations so essential to the "memorization" is found at the end of every chapter.The underlying principles common to all field of organic chemistry are exemplified in the illustrative reactions of the functional groups.

Spectroscopy are introduced in Chapters 12 and 13, and the chapters following them are devoted to introduce the remaining major functional groups with knowledge of spectroscopy already presented. Chapters 23, 24, and 25 discuss the organic compounds of particular interest to the biologically-orientated, while Chapter 26 concludes the book with a survey of synthetic polymer.

The most striking characterictics of the book are probably its problem solving hints, problem-solving strategies and essential problem-solving skills boxes. It almost seemed as though Wade was right in front of you showing you where to push that lazy electrons; patient and reminding. The solved problems are also very illustrative. An accompanying solution manual should perfectly complement your journey into the wonderful world of organic chemistry! ... Read more

Book Description

John McMurry's international best-seller is widely and consistently praised as the most clearly written book on the market. Why? In John McMurry's words: "I have been asked hundreds of times over the past ten years why I wrote this book. I wrote this book because I love writing. I get great pleasure and satisfaction from taking a complicated subject, turning it around until I see it clearly from a new angle, and then explaining it in simple words. I write to explain chemistry to students the way I wish it had been explained to me years ago." Through his lucid writing and ability to show the beauty and logic of organic chemistry, McMurry makes learning enjoyable for students. The highest compliment that can be given to a chemistry book applies to McMurry: It works! Mainstream in level, McMurry's coverage is concise yet doesn't omit any key topics. McMurry blends the traditional functional-group approach with a mechanistic approach. The primary approach, by functional group, begins with the simple and progresses to the more complex so that readers who are not yet versed in the subtleties of mechanisms are first exposed to the "what" of chemistry before beginning to grapple with the "why." Within this primary organization, the author places a heavy emphasis on explaining the fundamental mechanistic similarities.In this edition, McMurry retains his standard-setting features (including his innovative vertical format for explaining reaction mechanisms) while revising his text line-by-line to include hundreds of small but important improvements. For example, the Sixth Edition includes new examples, additional steps in existing examples, new problems, new phrases to clarify the exposition, and a vibrant new art program. In addition, new icons in the text lead students to a variety of new online resources. McMurry's text is in use at hundreds of colleges and universities around the world, from North America, to the United Kingdom and the Pacific Rim. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Clear, thorough text
McMurry's Organic Chemistry is a great textbook. The text is clear and uncluttered, especially compared to others. The graphics organize the information well. Also, the back of the solutions manual has an organized summary of the reactions.

If you are using it as a supplement to your assigned book, I find that the previous (5th?) is just fine, and is probably much cheaper than the new edition.

Fantastic Organic Text
I used this text for 2 semesters of Organic Chemistry. I thought it was fantastic, with very colorful, helpful electrostatic potential maps. It showed clear reaction mechanisms and gave a summary of all learned reactions at the end of the chapter.

If you need to learn Organic chem, McMurry is the way to go.

why the new edition???
This is an excellent text! I have one criticism though. Why must a new edition come out every year/every other year? Its rediculous! The books are practically the same but the bookstore will never buy the old version back. The 5th edition cost me 120$. Thats pretty darn expensive!!

A Beginner's Guide to Organic
McMurry's text is a very friendly, gentle intro to organic. It's a thoroughly enjoyable read, but it doesn't teach you what you need to know. Explanations for important mechanisms are usually very brief, and the problems included are usually very basic and general (the spectroscopy and synthesis problems, in particular). If you're looking to become a chemist, this is not the book to learn from. I'd recommend Vollhardt and Schore's textbook, or any number of sophomore-level texts that will give you the skills you need to approach complicated problems more successfully (i.e., on exams or out in the industry).

Organic Chemistry
I found this book to be helpful in my organic chemistry class. It has great diagrams and explains the concepts fairly well so one can understand what is being said. The book does come with a CD, which I did not use for the class. The book also has many examples, practice problems with solutions in the back, and chapter summaries. I recommend this book for anyone who is serious about organic chemistry. ... Read more

Book Description

This book provides sufficient detail without overloading the reader with details that might be unnecessary to attain basic understanding of the subject matter.A new chapter on genomics is a timely response to the mapping of the human genome that will appeal to many readers.This book will a useful resource for anyone working in the fields of nursing, physical therapy, agriculture, home economics, aquaculture—or those who simply have a desire to learn more about the basic concepts of chemistry and biochemistry. . ... Read more

Book Description

General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications is recognized for its superior problems, lucid writing, and precision of argument. This updated and expanded edition retains the popular and innovative features of previous editions—including Feature Problems, follow-up Integrative and Practice Exercises to accompany every in-chapter Example, and Focus On application boxes, as well as new Keep in Mind marginal notes.Topics covered include atoms and the atomic theory, chemical compounds and reactions, gases, Thermochemistry, electrons in atoms, chemical bonding, liquids, solids, and intermolecular forces, chemical kinetics, principles of chemical equilibrium, acids and bases, electrochemistry, representative and transitional elements, and nuclear and organic chemistry.For individuals interested in a broad overview of chemical principles and applications. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great Practice Problems
I would have to say that this is the best chemistry text I've ever come across. The strongest point of this book is the examples and practive questions. When presenting a new topic, they usually have about 3 practice questions that quiz you on the subject by asking it in different ways. The full solution and answers for these questions are included in the book. So there are no surprises when the test comes--you know every way the question can be asked. So while Chemistry isn't the most exciting subject overall, this book makes it a lot easier to learn!

Worst Chemistry book on the market
My school uses this book. This book is the worst book I have ever used. Poor explainations. Poor examples. Even advanced students find it convoluted. PLEASE AVOID TAKING CHEMISTRY FROM THIS BOOK.

Fine
This book is fine. It suffers because it is, after all, a general chemistry text. It does a fine job at explaining all of the basics you need for understanding the principles of chemistry. The chapters about metals at the end are a little too condensed, but the first twenty chapters are well written. Just remember that this is a *general* chemistry text. By 2nd year, you will learn that most of what is written in this book is an approximation...

Only used because of kickbacks to Chemistry departments!
This is the POOREST excuse for a general chemistry book I've ever seen! If I could rate it NEGATIVE stars I would! Every moment with this book is a nightmare! The only reason the publisher is able to unload it is because Chemistry departments get a KICKBACK from the publisher for requiring it! Without the kickback from the publisher, this JOKE for a chemistry book would fade away into oblivion! AVOID THIS BOOK AT ALL COSTS! If your school requires it, find somewhere else to take chemistry!

Not teachable
I attempted to teach from this book last year. It's HORRIBLE! The explanations are utterly lacking and confusing at best. The problems at the end of the chapter may as well be missing. A student cannot learn from them, especially one struggling with the basics. Given the choice, buy another one! ... Read more

Book Description

This best sellar, now in its eighth edition, makes chemistry exciting by showing why important concepts are relavant to the lives and future careers of readers. The new design, digital images, photos, Career Focus features, and macro-to-micro art enhance the new edition while it retains the many features that have made this book so successful. The writing, as always, is exceptionally friendly. Each section contains sample problems that develop readers' critical-thinking skills. This edition also contains more conceptual problems than ever before and has been redesigned to accomodate new styles of learning and teaching with a wide variety of pedagogical tools.Health and Environmental Notes throughout the book highlight topics that are relevant to readers' lives and are ideal for classroom discussion. Explore Your World activities in each chapter make chemistry exciting, relevant, and non-threatening.This book is ideally suited for the allied health student, or anyone interested in general, organic, or biological chemistry. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Life saving personal tutor
I recently took chemistry part II after not having chemistry for several years. This book was a life saver. I was able to pull many examples from it to guide me when I did my homework. Chemistry is tough enough by itself, but this book really helped. All the answers are there so you can test yourself on one part, and then see the answers with explinations on another part. Everything was easy to understand in this book. I highly recommend this Study Guide. This Study Guide will save you a lot of time at the tutor, and keep you from pulling your hair out while figuring out chemistry.

Chemistry by Karen C. Timberlake
This is an excellent book. I tutor students who are going into the allied health professions, and some have never had chemistry before now. The chapters are clearly written with sample problems after each topic and end-of-chapter problems. I refer to it for exercises for my students. It is the best that I have found so far. ... Read more

Book Description

From its first edition through this, its fifth, Organic Chemistry has been designed to meet the needs of the “mainstream,” two-semester, undergraduate organic chemistry course. This best-selling text gives students a solid understanding of organic chemistry by stressing how fundamental reaction mechanisms function and how reactions occur.With the addition of state-of-the-art multimedia tools, new cutting-edge molecular illustrations, updated spectroscopy coverage and seamless integration of molecular modeling exercises, the 5th edition of Organic Chemistry clearly offers the most up-to-date approach to the study of organic chemistry. ... Read more

Book Description

This best-selling text, GENERAL CHEMISTRY by Whitten/Davis/Peck/Stanley, is best summarized by "classic text, modern presentation." This simple phrase underlies its strong emphasis is on fundamental skills and concepts. As in previous editions, clearly explained problem-solving strategies continue to be the strength of this student-friendly text. This revision builds on the highly praised style and applications to everyday life that have earned this text a reputation as the voice of authority in general chemistry. Whitten always has been viewed as one of the few truly "traditional" general chemistry texts. Examples of this are that the text covers Thermodynamics, normally a topic split into two parts and covered in two different semesters, in one chapter and begins the second half of the course. GENERAL CHEMISTRY, Seventh Edition also follows a standard narrative-example-problem format, has a solid traditional writing style, and promotes problem solving. However, the authors have added some new elements over the years to reflect changes in chemical education. These include adding in conceptual questions in the problem sets, adding features like the Chemistry In Use boxes to show how chemistry is used in daily life, and further promoting problem solving by including hints and checks for students. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

traditional
This is a traditional freshman chemistry text widely used especially in the southern states. Its explanations of chemical concepts are generally clear. The writing style might be too formal for many today's college students. The book contains plenty of worked-out examples to illustrate porblem-solving skills and ample end-of-chapter exercises. Problem-solving tips and margin notes on common mistakes, though ignored by many students, are generally very helpful.

Chapter 8 on molecular geometry is much more detailed than most other textbooks of similar level. A good flow chart is provided at the beginning of the chapter. However, some example problems are needed to show students how to identify geometry and shape of a specific molecule. Thermodynamics is introduced in a single chapter in the second half of the book. The sections on entropy and Gibb's free energy is somewhat too brief. A better introdction of energy and heat is needed in chapter one.

Generally speaking, the text contains a great amount of information, maybe too much for students who are poorly prepared for college level chemistry. The authors should also strive to show students how different topics covered in the text are related to each other.

Another good traditional general chemistry text is the one by Brown, LeMay, and Bursten. The one by Oxtoby, Freeman, and Block is a very accurate text. An exciting new text by Moore, Stanitski, and Jurs is clearly written and has many new features that promote students's active learning. In my opinion, it might be a better text for the new generation of college students.

Some cheap resources for struggling students include: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Chemistry, Survival Guide for General Chemistry, and Chemistry for Dummies.

Best Chem text on the market!!!
This is the best general chemistry text on the market. I used Ebbing's text at first, that text is misleading. Lot information is out of date, but in this book everything's very clear.
It's problem solving tips in each section is very helpful. It helped me alot avoiding common errors and clarified many misconceptions.
It REALLY is the best chem text on the market as one of reviewer said. At least much better than two other books i used; one by Ebbing, one by Adkins. Don't buy those books. They're waste of money and probably ruin your clear mastery of chemistry.
This book is nice. With the CD-rom it will be even better.

Mistakes
This is a very complex textbook with TONS of mistakes within. One example that I remember is on page 85, question #66. It says its composition by mass is 49.4% C, 7.64% H, 17.7% N, 15.3% O, and 10.1% S. When working out this equation it will not come out right, it should be 47.2% C, 6.55% H, 13.0% N, 25.9% O and 7.43% C. I hope some of this helps!

The Best Out There
I cannot believe somebody has not written a review for this book. I had it for my g. chem. I and II classes. This book should be the standard textbook by which all others should be judged (actually, it's a surprise how this book has not put out of business all others -- I guess people are looking more for attractive subtitles and dazzling covers rather than real science). Together with Serway's "Physics for Scientists and Enginners," I made a 14 in the physical section of the MCAT, or a 99%. (and I'm certainly not a genius -- I just worked hard every day). Highly recommended. ... Read more

Book Description

This bestseller helps readers master basic skills with its clear and easy-to-follow presentation of key concepts. It focuses on the important ideas of organic chemistry and backs them up with illustrations and challenging problems. The authors' acclaimed writing style makes this thorny subject easy to grasp and comprehend. The new edition brings the book to the forefront of the latest research developments.
The book includes the ORGANIC VIEW CD, a browser-based study tool with animated 3D graphics, Drill/Review sections, and Practice Tests
"The Chemistry of..." boxes throughout highlight biological and other real-world chemistry
This edition is completely up-to-date with the latest developments in the field ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Organic Chemistry for Beginners
Organic Chemistry is often mistaken to be a subject to be of rote memorization. having a bachelors in chemical engineering, i was introduced to organic chemistry during my junior days. i always hated organic chemistry for the way i was presented was a mere reaction and the reagents. Entering the graduate school, i was forced to learn organic chemistry, whereby i accidentally encountered this book. Reading the first few pages of the book, it was damn lucid to my mind, that organic chemistry is not memorization of a bunch of reactions, but its LOGIC. believe me, i as much as everybody hated org chem and i can't believe that i am writing a review on this book.

coming to the book, this book is intended to be used as two semester course. the first semester you usually end up reading the first 13 chapters. It is here i recommend to use caution, as they form the foundation for the remaining chapters. The first chapters through alcohols and alkenes is presented excellently with the author meticulously providing the reaction mechanisms. although the material presented is overwhelming to the intro students, you have to be patient and always make sure you do your homework by solving the problems and reviewing the concepts before you proceed to the next level. The author has presented an excellent recap at the end of the first 13 chapters. Quite honestly, it will teach you the logic behind the product formation, which u should be able to deduce by logic.

it is the second part of the book, where it gets a little stinky. the author didn't provide a good recap at most of the reactions in the chapter ending, but nevertheless presented the logic, behind the formation of the product, so if you can recap yourself after each chapter with notes, then by the end of the next 13 chapters you should pretty much be able to reasonably predict the product for almost most of the reactions. concepts like the use of different oxidising and reducing agents, enolate formation and the carbonyl compounds have been dealt almost thoroughly. i would say it could be dealt in further detail, but it suffices for someone who wishes to learn organic chemistry.

i have read the book and solved the exercises, and trust me, i knew nothing about org and in about six months out of my own interest i am now at a stage with hardwork able to pursue synthetic chemistry as my expertise. i believe this book not only helped to learn org chem, but helped me to make my career choice.

a good book teaches you the concepts behind the theory, but a great book inspires you. i belive this to be a great book.

Fuzzy Chemistry
Review for the '99... I started to use this book from chapter 1-4 and I already dislike it. For instance the nomenclatature section does not explain what is the IUPAC naming for compounds pertaining functional groups well enough. The spectroscopy part, is too basic, it does not present a in-depth view of how important functional groups absorb the IR spectra. Finally, the answer that appear at the back of the book are to few, out of about 40 problems only the solution for 10 of them appear. This makes it difficult if a student wants to check an answer and does not have the solutions manual. If this book continues to be like that, I think that I might study from another book, a Professor recommended me Seyhan Ege. ... Read more

Book Description

This book retains the relaxed, easy-to-read style of the previous edition to provide integrated coverage of organic and biochemistry, applications, and tools that foster problem-solving skills. More than any other, this text offers balance-in the topics presented, and in its presentation of the subject of chemistry. The authors focus on three mains areas to help readers master the core concepts of general chemistry and enhance their problem-solving skills: problem-solving support and active assessment, conceptual development, and visualization of the molecular behavior of matter. For anyone who wants a relaxed, easy-to-read book that emphasizes major topics in chemistry as well as problem-solving techniques.

Reviews (4)

Trades readability for depth and rigor
This text is best suited for very good students who are motivated, comfortable reading English at a high level and mathematically adept: other students would be served much better by a different book. It contains far more material than could possibly be covered in a standard freshman general chemistry sequence, even with a good class. The authors assume that their audience is composed of the students I described initially (I am told it is the textbook at MIT), and leave it to the instructor to "break it down" for the students. Initially, I was not fond of this book, but I have slowly changed my mind, and I believe I have a better grasp of introductory chemistry thanks to the extra depth it goes to and the challenges it made me rise to.

Could be much better
It is because of textbooks such as this one that students lose interest in chemistry, and, worse, science in general. Yes, it is filled with LOTS of information, but there are many instances in which otherwise relatively simple concepts are twisted into something incomprehensible. In some cases, it seemed that the authors went out of their way to explain a topic in the most convoluted manner possible. Come on guys, chemistry is complex enough as it is, so rather than write a tome displaying how much YOU know about the topic, how about a more "student friendly" textbook that doesn't so readily confirm most people's suspicians that chemistry is as dry as saw dust.

Excellent Intro Text
This text was used in 1999-2000 at Oregon State University for the 100-level General Chem sequence for non-science majors. It is an excellent text with a (generally) friendly approach to introductory topics, and there are many nice photographs and discussion boxes containing info about practical chem applications. For some reason, the authors include a significant section on organic chemistry in chapter 2, far before they discuss bonding.... Other than that, this book is great. Better than four out of five other general chem texts.

Simple to Say, Detail to Explain!
This book is very up-to-date. Alos, there are may colorful pictures, that can attract the readers to keep on reveiwing. It is not a wonderful book for literature review, but it is a suitable book for the new-learner of Chemistry. In which, many examples are shown which can explain the theories effectively. Also, the index is arranged with a lots of words, that can be conventient for the readers to find out what we look for. ... Read more

Book Description

This new edition of CHEMISTRY: PRINCIPLES AND REACTIONS continues to provide students with the "core" material essential to understanding the principles of general chemistry. Masterton and Hurley cover the basics without sacrificing the essentials, appealing to several markets. Appropriate for either a one- or two-semester course, CHEMISTRY: PRINCIPLES AND REACTIONS, Fifth Edition is three hundred pages shorter than most general chemistry texts and lives up to its long-standing reputation as THE student-oriented text. Though this text is shorter in length than most other General Chemistry books, it is not lower in level and with the addition of the large volume of content provided by the revolutionary GENERAL CHEMISTRY INTERACTIVE 3.0 CD-ROM that is included with every copy, it has a depth and breadth rivaling much longer books. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Chemistry Text
This book contained many interesting pictures and well drawn diagrams, but could have been better organized and more detailed in it's explanations. Overall, this book did satisfy the basic principles and ideas generally found in chemistry 101 and chemistry 102 courses.

A nice read
I used this book for AP chem. I know one of the reviewers claims that it doesn't prepare you for the test. I think though, that it covers all the information you'll need to get a five on the AP, as I used this book, and I got a five. Perhaps, the practice problems aren't exactly AP chem test type problems. Therefore, to study for the actual test, go find a practice AP chem book like Barrons. They give you myriad practice problems. This book though, explains chemistry, not just how to do problems. Some people think that its over simplified. I think that its just written well and doesn't over complicate matters. Everything you need to know for a first year non calculus based chemistry course is in this book...and its accessible. The language is clear and concise. The sample problems are very useful because they cover basic problem solving techniques. I also enjoyed the little notes in the margins, they're kinda funny (this refers to the third edition). Anyway, if you want a general chem book that is not too complicated but still covers alot of material, this one's for you!

Absolutely terrible
Although this book may be useful as a reference, it is a disaster if you are new to chemistry and don't have a professor, who could explain some topics from this book.
In order to understand the book's problems you have to buy separately a solution manual.

So-so
A bit too complicated for a General Chemistry text, yet it still fails to touch on certain important aspects (steric numbers, among others). The practice problems at the end of each chapter are highly abstract, but may be viewed as somewhat useful when compared to the extremely wordy and complicated study guide. College students studying Chemistry for the first time, especially older non-traditional students, will find the authors' approach to several concepts to be unnecessarily complex. This text is far more useful when accompanied by a study guide such as Houk's Chemistry: Concepts and Problems, A Self-Teaching Guide. The text's study guide is fairly useless unless the instructor pulls tests from the publisher's web suite.

Good text book
I am a UCONN student, where Prof. Masterton and Prof. Hurley are my chemistry teachers. I have to say that this book is very well written, and interesting to read. It explains the priciple in clear and easy to understand fassion, not wordy, not repetitive. The exercises are step by step, and get to the point. The author often makes connection between chemistry and our everyday life. For example, he will expain that sea water is a bit slipery because it's slightly basic. There are some comments that this book is too simple, and not at college level. Well, I'm taking general chemistry course here, with this textbook, and this course is one of the hardest course at UCONN. We judge a book by it's content, not by it's thickness or how pretty the title page is. There are not too many organic stuff here, but most people who is major in chemistry related fields go on to take Organic Chemistry, at here this is the way it is here. This book is supposed to be General introduction to chemistry. And you can certainly get a lot out of it. ... Read more

Book Description

A popular introduction to organic chemistry whichstresses the importance of molecular structure in understanding theproperties and principles of organic chemistry. Providesa wide variety of spectra to be analyzed. Features four-color photographsthroughout.

Book Description

This innovative book from acclaimed educator Paula Bruice is organized in a way that discourages rote memorization. The author's writing has been praised for anticipating readers' questions, and appeals to their need to learn visually and by solving problems. Emphasizing that learners should reason their way to solutions rather than memorize facts, Bruice encourages them to think about what they have learned previously and apply that knowledge in a new setting. KEY TOPICS The book balances coverage of traditional topics with bioorganic chemistry, highlights mechanistic similarities, and ties synthesis and reactivity together—teaching the reactivity of a functional group and the synthesis of compounds obtained as a result of that reactivity.For the study of organic chemistry. ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Top Notch Organic Text
This text is a remarkable departure from the mundane world of organic chemistry texts. Not only does Dr. Bruice lay a good foundation by discussing electronic structure and nomenclature right upfront, she does a great job of including a historical perspective of the subject as well. This book is about understanding the material and applying your new found knowledge to solve problems never before encountered. This book is not about memorizing 400 reactions and trying to fit everything together on your own. One of the main departures this text has to offer is the detailed discussion of catalysis and bioorganic chemistry. Most students really enjoy the biochemical aspects of the subject and Dr. Bruice makes these connections throughout the book. I highly recommend this book dispite the few typographical errors mentioned in other reviews (what text doesn't have a few?). The improved artwork and simplicity of dialog is refreshing.

M. Werner (Asst. Prof. Organic and Biochemistry)
Lake Superior State University

An essential tool for the student of Organic Chemistry
A well organized book that approaches the subject in a way de-emphasizes rote memorization and helps the student master the subject by understanding the unifying principles of organic chemistry. Of particular value, the author provided numerous problems of varying difficulty. These problems were particularly well chosen by the author because they made the principles descibed in the text more readily understandable. In summary, it was a well organized, readable, and highly informative text on the subject of Organic Chemistry.

it's ok, but I would get another book instead
I had this book for class, she really jumps on her subjects,not well organized. There are also numerous errors. About 30% of the answers in the back of the book were wrong.

Excellent condition, prompt shipping! Thanks!
Excellent condition, prompt shipping! Thanks!

Excellent text but awful answer keys and Solution Manual
I just finished taking my first Organic Chemistry course and got an A -- and this text was a huge reason why. Her organization and explanation of reactions and mechanisms was great and her graphics were very helpful. This text was a huge improvement over my General Chemistry textbook (Zumdahl's Chemistry) which was awful. This text made the course very comprehensible. Only two things kept me from giving this book five stars. One, the answer key, both in the text and in the Solution Manual, was completely unreliable and many of the answers were wrong. Prentice Hall must have used one of their editorial interns to check the answer keys. Very sloppy work. Two, the NMR and IR chapters (Ch. 12 & 13) weren't as clear and comprehensible as the other chapters. Other than that, however, an excellent text for the Organic Chemistry novice. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Emphasis on Conceptual Understanding
This text emphasizes conceptual understanding of chemical principles by providing many conceptual example and end-of-chapter problems. It will greatly help those who know what meaningful study is and how to do it. Trying to memorize formula, facts, and procudures of solving different types of problems is not study and will result in poor grades in college chemistry classes.

As for the price, all textbooks nowadays are very expensive. I'm not sure if there is anything we can do about it.

It's a text that does its job
No chemistry textbook can be used exclusivly to learn chemistry. A student must attend the lectures and show up for recitation in order to understand the concepts more fully. Chemistry is not an easy subject; it involves math and an imaginative mind in order to picture what one cannot see. If your instructor has not required it, you should consider buying the solutions manual. Let's face it- how do you know your answers are right? It may cost a good amount, but you can always resell it when you're done with the course. This text actually provides more diagrams than any other text I have seen thus far and I believe it is easier to read and comprehend than other texts. This is a text for someone who can sit down and study. Although, this is coming from a chem major, so I sometimes find myself wondering why people find it hard, just like you may find it hard for people to understand something you are interested in.

Chemistry
This book drops mega-ton bombs more faster than you blink...'cause neutrons travel at a tremendous speed...clouds of smoke, un-natural blends of Fe. Only under one circumstance, it's if you're blunted, by this book 'cause the folks at the school want it.

It has a few mistakes too...and the authors and editors could care less about undergraduate students.

This book is horrible
If you think the book is bad, try attending one of his lectures at 10:10 in the morning. The man is the textbook

CHem
This book is horible!!!!!!!!!! vary confusing for the mild minded person. buy it at your own risk. there needs to be more diagrams explaning the consepts in the book insted writing, chemestry is also and imagnary subject also at an atomic level not just a quantam one. ... Read more

Book Description

This accurate and up-to-date book focuses on the basic principles of Biochemistry, with carefully selected examples of each. The areas of greatest change since the second edition are lipid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and protein metabolism.Includes stereo views of many macromolecules; computer supplement; a section on molecular evolution; protein structures; molecular evolution; and developments in the area of gene expression, including the structure of RNA polymerase, the structure of the ribosome, genome organization, repair mechanisms, regulation of transcription and translation, and the structure and evolution of aminoacy1-tRNA synthetases.For readers interested in Biochemistry. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A great introductory biochemistry text!
Filled to the brim with useful, concise information, and helpful explanations. It also has very complete coverage of a broad variety of concepts and fields of study of biochemistry. While it can at times get bogged down in the details, it was extremely helpful to me during my biochemistry class, and inspired in me a desire to continue educating myself in the field. I am keeping this book rather than selling it, because I'm certain it will be of great use to me in my further studies in biology and medicine.

not a bad text
The text could have expanded on some topics. I recommend the Voet and Voet text. Had to purchase this text because few of its authors were from the university I attend. ... Read more

Book Description

This comprehensive book gives readers easy access to the basic concepts and their relevant connections of the chemical principles operating in everyday life. Numerous examples and real-world applications provide chemistry enthusiasts with long-term, meaningful understandings. Chapter topics include scientific measurements, matter and energy, models of the atom, chemical reactions, the mole concept, liquids and solids, acids and bases, oxidation and reduction, chemical equilibrium, nuclear and organic chemistry, and biochemistry.For those who understand that knowledge of chemistry constitutes an empowering life skill. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

pretty easy to read
i liked this book. the examples were easy to read and the book was a decent introduction to chemistry. if u are required to get this book for an introductory class. dont worry too much its not that hard. ... Read more

Book Description

This text's clear explanations and descriptions of the mechanisms of chemical reactions teach students how to apply principles in order to predict the outcomes of reactions. Early coverage of acid/base chemistry allows students to quickly grasp the concept that the structures of organic compounds determine their chemical reactivity. This new edition offers a strengthened focus on biological applications that renders the text more accessible to the majority of organic chemistry students and more consistent with the interdisciplinary nature of scientific research.

This text's unique pedagogy encourages meaningful analysis and evaluation. "A Look Ahead" sections at the beginning of each chapter introduce the chapter's main topics and objectives. "One Small Step" features apply familiar concepts to new reagents and reactions, encouraging students to analyze material rather than memorize the outcome to each new reaction. "Visualizing the Reaction" features help students recognize important reactions by demonstrating the complete mechanisms for each type of reaction. The "Problem-Solving Skills" sections offer students a systematic approach to solving organic chemistry problems, allowing them to reason their way to a solution. End-of-chapter materials include a summary that offers a concise review of major concepts or end-of-chapter tables that summarize the reactions that appear in the chapter.

• New! Complex synthetic concepts and reactions have been moved to chapter 21, which highlights synthetic pathways and strategies and includes new sections on solid-phase syntheses and combinatorial chemistry.
• New! Biological macromolecules and concepts are discussed in a separate chapter (Chapter 23).
• New! HM ClassPrep with HM Testing version V.6.1 CD-ROM includes lecture outlines and line art from the textbook in PowerPoint, the Computerized Test Bank and the Word files of the Test Bank in a new, easy-to-use interface with complete cross-platform flexibility, electronic versions of materials from the Instructor's Resource Manual, and a transition guide that directs instructors through this new edition.
• New! Icons in the text highlight chapter material that students can explore in further detail on the student web site and CD-ROM.
• Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is briefly introduced in Chapter 5 to present ideas of symmetry and the chemical equivalence of atoms and groups.
• The student web site includes "One Small Step" problems, selected "Visualizing the Reactions" features, workbook exercises, concept charts, animations/ simulations, and a glossary.
• The Study Guide includes solutions to every problem in the text, Concept Maps (key concepts presented in an outline or diagrammatic form), and supplemental problems.
• Darling's Molecular Visions Kit helps students visualize organic structures and reactions.
• ChemOffice Ltd includes the introductory student version of ChemDraw and Chem3D, CambridgeSoft's premiere chemical drawing and modeling programs.
• The Instructor's Manual provides worked-out solutions to "One Small Step" problems, as well as supplemental problems for students, advice on teaching organic chemistry, and directions for in-class chemical demonstrations.
• The Test Bank contains over 1,200 multiple-choice and cumulative free response questions to accompany the content covered in the text.
• End-of-chapter tables review the stages of the reactions presented, reminding students of the types of reagents needed, the reactive intermediate involved, and the stereochemistry of the reaction.
• All problems in the text relate to real-life research performed by chemists.

Reviews (4)

Excellent
Simply the best organic chemistry textbook I've seen. I own three organic chemistry texts, and this one is the most helpful, hands-down. Excellent summaries, clear and concise text, very illustrative examples. Comes with a Student Solutions Manual that contains answers to _every problem_ in the text. Fantastic. If you're having trouble learning Organic Chemistry, get this book.

I like this author better than others
This author seems to put complex concepts in terms you can easily understand. I am currently studying out of the McMurry organic chemistry book and find it much more vague.

Two thumbs up!
Dr. Ege taught me organic chemistry when I took organic chemistry in my undergraduate. She is one of not many chemists I have seen thus far that can present her expertise in such a friendly and simple manner. I used her text as a textbook for class and this book gave me valuable knowledge of Chemistry. This new edition has been recently updated and Dr. Ege still maintains her unique talent in making difficult subject easy. For those who are afraid of taking this burdensome class. Try reading this text and do the problem sets given at the end of each chapter. I am sure that you will love organic chemistry like thousands of Dr. Ege's students. This book is well organized, clear, comprehensive and ideal for future reference. It may seem too expensive, but you pay a little more for a much better one...

In-depth and detailed
Excellent organic chemistry textbook. Many mechanisms and coherent explanations of reactions. Problems throughout the book require a very thorough understanding of the material. Study guide very detailed and helpful. ... Read more

Book Description

With each edition, Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change by Martin Silberberg is becoming a favorite among faculty and students.Silberberg’s 3rd edition contains features that make it the most comprehensive and relevant text for any student enrolled in General Chemistry.The text contains unprecedented macroscopic to microscopic molecular illustrations, consistent step-by-step worked exercises in every chapter, an extensive range of end-of-chapter problems which provide engaging applications covering a wide variety of freshman interests, including engineering, medicine, materials, and environmental studies.All of these qualities make Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change the centerpiece for any General Chemistry course. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Occasionally Helpful
This is the book used for General Chemistry at the University of Florida. This book was occasionally helpful with equations and broad topics, but didn't go into enough detail on some subjects, especially in the Acid/Base chapters. Otherwise it's a decent reference.

a good general chemistry text for science majors
This is a very useful chemistry textbooks for a science student who studies independently. I like this book for several reasons: (1) It is comprehensive, (2) It contains detailed explanatins of WHY and HOW things happen,(3) The book includes numerous worked-out problems, and (4) The book is written in a very readable manner, containing straight-foward language and excellent graphic explanations. I am studying biochemistry now, and I go back to this text very often for the explanation of certain topics, eg. buffer problems. The coverage of organic chemistry is very basic in Silberberg's book. For in-depth coverage refer to Organic Chemistry: Structure and reactivity by Seyhan Ege (ISBN 0395902231), a very good book that emphasizes understanding, not memorization. A note: solutions to all problems in Ege's book are in the study guide.

excellent introduction to chemistry
The book gives a clear and precise introductio to the mail concepts in chemistry. The excellent graphics, examples and discussions on frontiers of chemistry makes this book very useful, and motivates students to go deepest in knowledge.

I think it is a great text
I was out of school for a long time, in fact, 16 years since I had high school Chemistry, so I was really nervous about taking a tough Chemistry course. I ended up doing great and I honestly believe you can learn the material from the text only. I think it is an excellent text with problems and examples that facilitate learning.

My Physics text, on the other hand, is AWFUL!

Avoid this book at all costs!!
This is undoubtably the worst text I have ever seen used at the freshman chem level. It is poorly organized, does not give the student a good grounding in the basics before moving on to more detailed areas and printed with ink and glossy paper that makes reading very difficult. The margins are cluttered with distracting diagrams, flow charts and pictures that have little relavance to what is being discussed in the text. As to organization, it is absurd to introduce thermodynamics in chapter 6, discussing only enthalpy,leaving out entropy and Gibbs free energy, placing them piecmeal in later chapters. This fragmented approach only confuses the student when they can't see the interrelationship between entropy, enthalpy and free energy. The same applies in discussing molarity at the end of chapter 3 instead of leaving it with acid-base and solution chemistry. The fragmented approach is very distracting for both student and instructor. This is my first and hopefully last semester to use this text. For a good text use McMurry-Fay or Davis, Whitten and Galey. Don't use this text if at all possible. I gave it one star because that was the lowest available. ... Read more

Book Description

Designed for the two-semester general chemistry course, Chang's textbook has often been considered a student favorite.This best-selling textbook takes a traditional approach.It features a straightforward, clear writing style and proven problem-solving strategies.The strength of the seventh edition is the integration of many tools that are designed to inspire both students and instructors.The textbook is the foundation for the technology.The multi-media package for the new edition stretches students beyond the confines of the traditional textbook. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Good Textbook for Learning Chemistry
Chang's Seventh edition of Chemistry includes the core material of most chemistry texts. The material that is usually covered in high school or in a first year college course is presented in the first five chapters: Basic concepts; Atoms, molecules, and ions; Chemical Reacions; Aqueous Solutions; and Gas Laws. Further chapters include topics appearing in a comprehensive first year or second year course: Thermochemistry; Atomic Orbitals; Periodic Properties; Bonding; Intermolecular Forces; and Physical Properites of Solutions. Finally, the conclusion of general chemistry includes Kinetics; Acid/Base Properties and Equilibria and Solubility; Electrochemistry; and Nuclear Chemistry; among possible other topics. The book also includes several other topics that may not be covered in a class, such as Chemistry in the Atmosphere; Metallurgy; Nonmetals; Entropy and Free Energy; Transition Metals; Organic Chemistry; and Polymers. You might want to look into these chapters if you are planning on taking more advanced courses in chemistry(Organic, for example).

I used this book for three courses in college. I did not consider myself a big fan of chemistry original, but found the subject much more interesting after opening Chang's text. I found the book rather easy to read and study. The material is presented in as much of a straightforward manner as is possible for chemistry. The numerous colorful pictures in the text made studying somewhat more enjoyable and definately made chemistry more interesting. The book also includes a handy keycard folder that features the periodic table and many other useful value tables. This book provides several useful examples and problems. It was very intrumental in forming my knowledge of basic chemistry. It is a useful tool for self-instruction. Truthfully, I think that I learned a lot more from the book alone than from any of my actual chemistry professors (no offense, but chemistry professors are some of the worst teachers in the world). I really did find the book quite interesting though (more so than my professors' lectures).

There are several optional materials that are available with this book. The first is a web service that may be included as a feature of your university's internet course programs. It is quite helpful, providing study questions and practice tests. The second is the Student Solutions Manuel. You will probably want to pick this up if you want to know how to solve homework problems. There is also a Student Study Guide. This is somewhat optional. It is helpful, but I have found several errors in it. Finally, there is a "Ready Notes" book. I wouldn't really suggest to buy this. It just has text pictures with spaces to write information next to them.

I'm not a conosur of chemistry books, but I can say that Chang has all the neccesicities for your general chemistry n