Introduction
Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties, and the changes it undergoes. It is a fundamental science that helps us understand the world around us. General Organic and Biological Chemistry is a comprehensive textbook written by Karen C. Timberlake, designed to introduce students to the basic concepts of chemistry and their applications in organic and biological systems. This 2500 word blog post will provide an overview of the book and its author, as well as the topics covered, and why this textbook is an essential resource for students studying chemistry.
The Author
Karen C. Timberlake is a professor emeritus of chemistry at Los Angeles Valley College and has over 30 years of teaching experience. She has also taught at Cypress College, Long Beach City College, and Loyola Marymount University. Timberlake 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.
Timberlake has received numerous awards for excellence in teaching, including the title of Distinguished Faculty Member of the Year from Los Angeles Valley College and the Southern California Consortium. In addition, she has authored several chemistry textbooks and is a member of the American Chemical Society and the National Science Teachers Association.
The Book
The ninth edition of General Organic and Biological Chemistry is a result of Timberlake’s years of teaching experience and her passion for making chemistry accessible and interesting to students. This textbook is designed for students with little or no background in chemistry and starts with basic concepts, such as atomic structure and chemical bonding, before moving on to more complex topics.
One of the unique features of this book is its integration of organic and biological examples and applications throughout the text. This approach helps students see the relevance of chemistry in their everyday lives, as well as in the fields of medicine, nutrition, and environmental science.
Content and Organization
General Organic and Biological Chemistry is divided into 30 chapters, which are grouped into six parts. Part I introduces students to the basic concepts of chemistry, such as matter and measurements, atomic structure, and the periodic table. This section also covers chemical bonding, molecules, and intermolecular forces.
Part II focuses on organic chemistry, including the naming and properties of organic compounds, the structure and function of alkanes and cyclic hydrocarbons, and the reactions of alkenes and alkynes. Part III discusses acids, bases, and acid-base reactions, as well as redox reactions.
Part IV dives into the world of biochemistry, covering topics such as the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Part V explores the role of chemistry in nutrition and metabolism, including digestion, energy production, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.
The final section, Part VI, covers environmental chemistry and sustainability, including topics such as air and water pollution, climate change, and alternative energy sources.
Each chapter includes Concept Checks and Problem-Solving Practice sections to help students test their understanding and apply the concepts covered in each chapter. Additionally, each chapter ends with a Chapter Review, Key Terms, and Visualization and Analysis section.
Why This Book is Essential
General Organic and Biological Chemistry is a comprehensive and engaging textbook that is perfect for students with little or no chemistry background. The integration of organic and biological examples and applications makes this book relevant and interesting to students, helping them see the real-world applications of chemistry.
Furthermore, Timberlake’s clear and concise writing style, along with the use of pedagogical tools, make this textbook easy to follow and understand. The Concept Checks and Problem-Solving Practice sections are especially helpful for students to gauge their understanding and strengthen their problem-solving skills.
In conclusion, General Organic and Biological Chemistry by Karen C. Timberlake is an essential resource for students studying chemistry. This textbook provides a solid foundation in the basic concepts of chemistry and their applications in organic and biological systems, making it a valuable tool for students pursuing careers in healthcare, nutrition, environmental science, and more.
