Introduction to General Organic and Biological Chemistry by Karen C. Timberlake
Chemistry is a fundamental scientific discipline that deals with the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. It plays a crucial role in our daily lives, from the food we eat to the air we breathe, and the medicines we take. General Organic and Biological Chemistry, written by Karen C. Timberlake, is an introductory level chemistry textbook that provides a comprehensive understanding of the basic principles of chemistry.
Karen C. Timberlake is a professor emeritus at Los Angeles Valley College and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Washington and a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has over 35 years of teaching experience and has written several chemistry textbooks. Her aim with the book is to make chemistry interesting and relevant for students by providing real-life examples and applications of chemical principles.
The book is organized into three main sections: General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biological Chemistry. It begins with an introduction to the scientific method, measurement, and matter. The following chapters cover topics such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and states of matter. The use of diagrams, charts, and illustrations makes it easier for students to understand the complex concepts.
The second section focuses on organic chemistry, which is the study of carbon compounds. This section covers the structure and properties of organic compounds, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. The book also discusses the principles of organic chemistry, such as nomenclature, functional groups, and reactions of organic compounds.
The third and final section of the book is dedicated to biological chemistry, the study of chemical processes that occur in living organisms. It introduces students to the basic concepts of biochemistry, including the structure and function of biomolecules, enzymes, metabolism, and cellular respiration. The book also explores how chemistry is applied in various fields of biology, such as genetics, nutrition, and medicine.
What sets General Organic and Biological Chemistry apart from other chemistry textbooks is its emphasis on problem-solving. The author has included numerous worked examples and practice problems with detailed solutions to help students master the material. The end-of-chapter questions and exercises provide an opportunity for students to test their understanding of the concepts.
In addition to the text, the book also includes online resources such as videos, animations, and interactive exercises to enhance learning. These tools make the study of chemistry more engaging and interactive for students.
In summary, Chemistry: An Introduction to General Organic and Biological Chemistry by Karen C. Timberlake is a comprehensive and reader-friendly textbook ideal for students starting their journey in chemistry. With its clear writing style, real-life applications, and problem-solving approach, the book makes learning chemistry enjoyable and understandable for students of all levels.
