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

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 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 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

Book Description

Written for the short coursewhere content must be thorough, but to-the-point, FUNDAMENTALS OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Fifth Edition provides an effective, clear, and readable introduction to the beauty and logic of organic chemistry. McMurry presents only those subjects needed for a brief course while maintaining the important pedagogical tools commonly found in larger books. With clear explanations, thought-provoking examples, and an innovative vertical format for explaining reaction mechanisms, FUNDAMENTALS takes a modern approach: primary organization is by functional group, beginning with the simple (alkanes) and progressing to the more complex. Within the primary organization, there is also an emphasis on explaining the fundamental mechanistic similarities of reactions. Through this approach, memorization is minimized and understanding is maximized.This new edition represents a major revision. The text has been revised at the sentence level to further improve clarity and readability; many new examples and topics of biological relevance have been added; and many new features have been introduced. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great helper for a tough subject
This book has helped me tremendously with my understanding of organic chemistry and has helped me get an A in the course ... 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

Reviews (2)

A very solid text!
I'm a computer guy working at a biotech and wanted to know more about what the guys in the coats are doing. This book is a very good introduction for those with a science bent.

I especially enjoyed reading about the Bohr model of the atom (which is what I learned in school) only to have it totally dissed after 3/4ths of a page as inadequate!

I don't know how well it works as a class room text (this is night-time reading for me) but for a enjoyable well written text on Biochemistry this is an excellent choice.

biotecnologia
please up go information of biotecnologi ... Read more

Book Description

The solution manual provides step-by-step solutions guiding the student through the reasoning behind each problem in the text.There is also a self-test at the end ofeach chapter, designed to assess the student’s mastery of the material. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

One of the better texts I had while in college
An all-around good book for an intro to organic chemistry. Good example problems, plenty of end-of-chapter questions and concise explanations of critical concepts. Lays an excellent foundation of molecular theory as it pertains to Organic Chemistry in the first few chapters. End of chapter review (very thorough) gives tables of important reactions, their respective reagents/catalysts, and in some cases real-world applications (very helpful). Of course, I had excellent teachers for these courses, so I am a bit biased in favor of this book. But, organic chemistry is inherently not an extremely difficult subject to understand; mostly memorization. I found the graphics somewhat boring, though, and felt they could have aided in understanding concepts, as might be the case with students who stuggle with this subject; maybe the newer editions are better; I haven't seen them.

Much better than any other used
I have used this book in replacement of my organic chemistry class book. It's much more clear and easy to learn. However, it would be nice if the book and answer book was not so expensive but it's worth to me.

Very informative, easy to understand
I read this book for my first organic chemistry course.I found it very helpful and i still refere to it at times.I specially find the chapeter about SN1 and SN2 reactions very useful because i tried couple of the other books before reading this one.

Well done!!
Kudos to Professor Carey on a job well done! I have used the text for a semester and must say that it is a clear, well-written book. Difficult concepts are simplified; this text is definitely a must-read!

An all-comprehensive text on basic organic chemistry
I personally bought the book at a used book store for a couple bucks and must admit this is one of the best textbooks I have ever had. I have been teaching organic chemistry to myself by use of this book, and it's clear explanations, excellent figures and tables, and pleasing appearance combine to create this textbook a 'must' for students in organic chemistry. Certainly even a new book would be worth the typically high cost of textbooks ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Straightforward and Clear
I used this text for my introductory Organic chem class, and found it both easy to read and helpful. It seems well-organized and has plenty of clear examples and good chapter-end summaries. However, I would highly recommend purchasing the study guide and solutions manual as well. Many of the problems are challenging, and having this resource available is very helpful. However, at the time of this writing, the only version of this study guide available on Amazon is that for the 3rd edition, which is little good for use with the 4th edition textbook, so be sure find the proper study guide for the textbook you purchase.

An adequate organic text...but that's all
This is not a very good organic text. My department selected this text, and I am teaching out of it now, but I don't like it very much. It follows the standard functional-group based organization that the majority of organic texts on the market currently use, which I have certain problems with (see the text by Whitesell & Fox for a contemporary alternative organizational format). I don't think that this text does a sufficient job in the beginning of equipping the student with the fundamental chemical principles that are needed later in the course, especially with the sparse treatment of bonding and MO theory given in the first chapter. The same goes for the treatment of basic principles of thermodynamics, kinetics, and acid-base theory. These are such important principles; I wish the text did a more thorough job in discussing them. The biggest gripe that I have about the text is that it is a slave to the new IUPAC system of organic nomenclature. For example, while, granted it is technically correct, according to the IUPAC system, to use 1,1-dimethylethyl to refer to a tert-butyl group, practically speaking, this is not the case. Just call it a tert-butyl group for Heaven's sake!! 99.999% of organic chemists are going to know what you are talking about. The homework problems also leave a lot to be desired. If you are considering adopting this text, I'd recommend taking a good look at one of the other texts on the market (e.g. Whitesell & Fox, Jones, or Bruice) before adopting this one. You might come to regret your decision.

It's Alright
Granted I am taking this course for the second time (yes I fell behind and hopelessly played "catch-up"). However, the previous book I used by Bruice was far more helpful. It contained more examples, explanations were more simply put, and there were more excercises throughout the chapters to reinforce concepts. Although there were several mistakes (apparently due to bad editing), I felt overall, the text by Bruice was superior.

A very ilustrative, explanatory book
If you want a book to start learning university Organic Chemistry...this is the one. The text is well writen, very clear and is always acompanied with ilustrations wich use color to enhance your understanding. These factors make it a easy-to-grasp book (but still concise) that doesn't demand any high level chemistry. It covers some necessary bonding concepts, nomenclature, reaction mechanisms and examples of organic chemistry applications. It was very helpful for me...and I still refer to it for the concepts of reaction mechanisms and structures in organic chemistry issues.

A Well-Written Text
A very well-written text, Vollhardt covers basic functional groups in organic chemistry and even difunctional compounds, carbohydrates, polycyclic benzenoid and heterocycles. With very plain language and explicit illustrations, each chapter provides a summary of new reactions and plenty of exercises. The intensity of this book is along the line with McMurry's Organic Chemistry. This book is suitable for especially students studying biological sciences who need an overview in organic chemistry. ... 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

Book Description

In this laboratory textbook for students of organic chemistry, experiments are designed to utilize standard-scale ("macroscale") glassware and equipment but with smaller amounts of chemicals and reagents. The textbook features a large number of traditional organic reactions and syntheses, as well as the isolation of natural products and experiments with a biological or health science focus. The organization of the text is based on essays and topics of current interest. There are six introductory technique-based experiments and eleven project-based experiments. In addition, there is a section of green chemistry experiments. The book contains a comprehensive treatment of laboratory techniques, including small-scale and some microscale methods. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

WWU grad
Dr. Pavia's class was so much fun. It was great to have a book written for our facility, by our instructors. I recommend this book to other schools because the techniques are clearly explained and the experiments are interesting.

Don't sell this book back!
An outstanding lab text for sophomore level 1-yr organic courses. Any chemistry/physical science major should not sell this book back at the end of the semester! Half of the book is dedicated to experiments which while informative is not the real gem here. The other half of the book covers techniques in organic and microscale chemistry. If you ever need to build a chromatographic column or do vacuum filtration again, you will be glad that you kept this book in your library.

The techniques section alone justifies buying this book. Chemistry majors, microbiologists, environmental scientists and engineers will all find this text valuable in their future careers. ... Read more

Book Description

150 pages of questions, answers, and explanations covering all possible topics in MCAT organic chemistry, both stand alone and 'mini-passage-based' questions, b&w illustrations.This book contains 1001 organic chemistry questions covering all the organic chemistry topics tested by the MCAT. Each question is in the MCAT multiple choice format. Questions are arranged by topic, and range from basic to extremely difficult. Typically, questions on a given topic begin easy and become progressively more difficult. Answers with explanations and formulas are provided.
... Read more

Reviews (5)

Perfect practice problems for MCAT
Practice is the key to the MCAT. Review is an essential first step, but is only part of the complete preparation for the MCAT. ORGO 1001 will help you guys ace the Biological Science questions. Everything from stereochemistry to lab techniques is in this book. There are over 90 stereochemistry questions alone. This book won't guarantee a 15, but it may help raise your score a couple points.

hastily prepared and poorly researched
This book is simply a collection of simple organic chemistry problems. These problems are not passage or concept-based, and thus very poorly model MCAT-style questions.

Good points:

*1000 problems covering many topics which are best mastered through practice, such as stereochemistry, lab techniques, resonance and spectroscopy

Bad Points:

*Not worth what paid for. There are more, _better_ questions in your text-book. Sad, but true.

*The questions that resemble those found on the exam are few and far in between.

Other: If you're in the hurry phase of MCAT prep. you may find it useful to know that each question in this book takes about 20 seconds to do.

Great Review
I used this book and found the questions to be very close to the type used on the MCAT. While there are a few typos I found this book a great way to review for the exam. Of this type of resource I found this to be the best one for OChem.

Not the best book
I bought all of the examcracker books- some were good, but this book was obviously hastily prepared- there are numerous typos as well as redundant questions. The title of the book makes it seem like you're going to get thorough practice in organic chemistry but all of the questions are too short and straightforward to be relevant to the MCAT. Unfortunately, I don't know of any good book for MCAT organic chemistry- it's certainly not this one, though.

Great way to review.
This book provides an excellent way to review Organic Chemistry. The question types are very similar to those found on the MCAT (altough they are not passage based). The content overlaps precisely with what could be tested on the MCAT. Although there is a little repetition of concptual content, it makes you realize how few question types can actually be asked on the real thing. ... Read more

Book Description

This supplemental text is designed to accompany Solomons or any Organic Chemistry text. David Klein helps students see the patterns in organic chemistry. This leads to a deeper conceptual understanding of the material and less memorizing or rote learning.

Many students in this course lack effective study habits and a sense of the big picture. Klein gives explicit instructions on how to organize one's study time. He also presents topics clearly by using a friendly writing style, analogy where appropriate, and lots of hands-on problem solving. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

I love you, Prof Klein
I'm a JHU student who took orgo two years ago. I got a D and I had no idea what was going on. Now I am taking orgo again with Prof Klein and its an entirely different class for me. Klein has this subject broken down into basic concepts, and it makes total sense now. We aren't even required to have the $120 text book (with its additional $80 solutions manual), just this short, simple, well-outlined book which I got for a mere $20. I still use Wade and my old Carey texts for additional problems, but I can't see how you can learn orgo effectively with those texts. Buy this book, do the problems and you will have a much easier time. And Klein, you are a great teacher, by the way.

AWESOME
This is by far and away the best book I have ever seen for ORGO. I read and did the book before starting class and I have the highest average in the class! Eveything is in language that is understandable (even to a dyslexic like me!) and actually fun to read. My Prof. wanted to see it after I told him about it and he's recommending it as an optional text for the fall classes .. He also borrowed my copy to take to the departmental meeting and show to the other Profs. If you have to take ORGO and do well, this it THE BOOK to help you do it!

If you are Pre-Med, an engineer, or just taking Orgo, then..
GET THIS BOOK! I'm a current pre-med student at Columbia University and i wanted a book to help me prep for my upcoming Orgo class. Though I haven't finished this book, I can honestly say it is fabulous! I had to stop reading to come and write this review. Klein def. knows his stuff. He breaks it down into PLAIN ENGLISH! And for a student like me who hates the terminology of expensive text books, this is much needed relief. Its like he's talking to directly to you. You almost expect him to call, when you're done with the book, to congratulate and wish you luck in the future. There are many examples, some simple, others tricky and a bit advanced. I truly believe that you (and I) will go into any Organic Chem class and feel very secure about the material. Do yourself a favor and get this book. It concise, compact, and an easy read...A recommended book for you to take while your on that summer vacation!

Enthusiastic professor, great writer!
Dr. Klein is a professor (and former student) at Johns Hopkins who really inspired me to (gasp!) go way beyond the general requirements of organic chemistry to go on to take upper level and graduate courses on the subject, even while I am not a chemistry major!

He takes the anxiety out of organic chemistry and teaches it as a friend, even when my lecture class had over 450 students.

I highly recommend his book as not only a way to learn organic chemistry but to welcome learning organic chemistry.

Klein's Student
This is a good book for preparing for the mcats or doing well in orgo. ... Read more

Book Description

Written for the laboratory that accompanies the sophomore/junior level courses in Organic Chemistry, Zubrick is a paperback student guide to the basic techniques of the Organic Chemistry lab. The book describes the instruments and techniques used in an Organic Chemistry lab. Diagrams show students how to make measurements, set up labs and perform meaningful experiments. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

A put-you-at-ease manual for a keep-you-on-edge subject
Professor Zubrick cuts to the heart of the intimidating subject of Organic Chemistry. His dry, even warped sense of humor is a welcome break from the usual style found in chemistry texts. This book is worth reading even if you're not taking Organic Chem! As some of the other reviewers say, it is not a daily reference for the practicing organic chemist, but for anyone taking O Chem I or II, it is an absolute must-have! The numerous diagrams help make sense of which part is which, and how they go together. The detail Prof. Zubrick provides is sufficient without being excessive, which makes reading this book actually fun for anyone. His explanations will make you snicker, if not laugh out loud! If you're the only student in the class with this book, keep a close eye on it, it may grow legs. I promise (if you have a sense of humor), you'll enjoy this book more than most others, on this topic or otherwise!

"I love it, I love it, I love it!"
I have had the opportunity to use this great manual for two semesters; it continues to be a permanent fixture to my hip. O. Chem can be and is for some a very difficult subject but Professor Zubrick has the rare talent of making the lab understandable and less of a fearful experience. Through his knowledgeable insight as well as his calm but "safety-first" attitude I have truly become an Organic Chemistry fan ("geek"). Thank you for all the laughs and wonderful guidance your manual has provided me throughout the two semesters. I recommend this manual to any O. Chem students, enthusiasts, as well as professors. Hope Professor Zubricks' next manual/book is as enjoyable to read...can't wait!

Chemistry is FUN?
This made learning ochem fun...Which is something I can't say about any other textbook I have ever read. It was funny and made the subject matter easy to remember.

Organic Lab Primer For Beginning Students
This volume provides a plethora of information on equipment and techniques for introductory organic chemistry laboratory. It is best suited for first year organic sequence. A great deal of info includes keeping a lab notebook, experiment glasswares, separation techniques and IR spectroscopy. A particular section that I find helpful and handy is the discussion on jointware. The distinction and usage on different kinds of adaptation jointwares can be confusing. I believe Zubrick's book is one of the few out in the field that actually discusses the use of different jointware. The section "To Grease or not to grease" discusses whether or not to use a lubricant and when to use lubricant. For a novice organic lab student who is both confused and overwhelmed by massive equipment in the lab, this book is the perfect primer. Yet the information might be oversimplified and scarce to advanced student and lab chemist. Coverage on topics like TLC, distillation theory, spectroscopy could be more in-depth and detailed. I recommend this book for beginning students. For more advanced students, they should consult Vogel's "Practical Organic Chemistry".

MY CONSTANT COMPANION IN LAB!
This book is the most immediately useful and user friendly chem textbook I have ever purchased. Written with delightful wit, the Survivor Manual sent me into lab feeling confident, prepared and ready to relax and enjoy the experience. I used it constantly in pre-lab, in experiment trouble-shooting and it was invaluable in lab write-up. Without it I would have wasted alot of time and effort. Org. Chem. students do not need any additional unnecessary stress and this book greatly lessened mine. I can't think of a time when I had a question in lab that was not addressed in the Survivor Manual. ... Read more

Book Description

This kit enables users to build virtually all simple molecules encountered in organic chemistry.Includes space-filling models that simulate the true shape of saturated compounds. Provides open models that form realistic single, double, and triple bonds — even strained rings. Allows smooth rotation of the bonds to make conformational analysis easy. Contains enough components to create several models at once. The components are precision-tooled from quality plastics, are virtually indestructible, and come in a sturdy plastic case for easy storage. Provides a useful Instruction Book — with photos, diagrams, and concise discussions of chemical principles. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Excellent Kit
I would recommend this kit to anyone who is taking organic chemistry. I found it very useful in learning organic chemistry mechanisms and structures. The high price is reflected in the high quality of the product!

In other reviews there were a couple of complaints about the kit not being realistic. However, the bond stiffness and design are surprisingly realistic (molecules aren't all that flimsy). The kit is perfect for create virtually any small organic molecule. It is excellent for seeing the difference between a chair and boat conformation, provided that it is put together appropriately. (My organic book and the directions were useful in arriving at the right conformation when I had problems.) The kit may just take a little bit of time to get used to, but it definitely is worth the work and time to see molecules in 3-D!

Does hardly work
The pins representing the bonds hardly fit the atoms. They don't allow for any rotation around the bond axis (exept by deforming the pin and introducing awkward stress in the molecule. Almost impossible to build a good model involving a ring structure.
There is a special tool to get the pins out. Don't lose it.

Helpfull but not that helpfull
This kit is a good learning tool for Organic Chemistry it really helps you understand the chapters on stereochemistry a bit better but they can confuse you a bit as well. The only set back is that they are not that flexible and will not help you when you study the different ring comformations I mean you really have to have a huge imagination to tell the difference between a chair conformation or a boat conformation with these models.

Why are none of the elements pink?
While the molecule kit allows you to make lots of fun molecules, it just doesn't provide enough creative freedom...though the fun popping noise you get when you pull the molecules apart is quite amusing. I found these overall pretty useful in class, but would not recommend eating them. The nitrogen goes down a little rough.

A great way to learn
I am Currently taking an Organic Chemistry Class and this model kit is a great way to understand Shape and structure. It helps you understand how atoms come togather in order to male a molecule. ... Read more