About the Book
General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications is a comprehensive textbook written by Ralph H. Petrucci and his colleagues, including F. Geoffrey Herring, Jeffry D. Madura, and Carey Bissonnette. First published in 1983, the book aims to provide a solid foundation in general chemistry principles while also highlighting the application of these concepts in modern research and everyday life.
Petrucci and his team have over 100 years of combined experience in teaching and researching chemistry, making them well-versed in the subject matter. This expertise is reflected in the clear and concise explanations, as well as the numerous real-world examples and applications included in the book.
One of the key strengths of General Chemistry is its integration of modern technology and multimedia resources to enhance the learning experience. The authors have created an online learning platform, MasteringChemistry, which includes interactive simulations, videos, and tutorials to help students grasp difficult concepts.
Highlights
Petrucci and his colleagues have structured the book in a logical and easy-to-understand manner, beginning with basic principles and gradually building up to more complex topics. The first few chapters cover fundamental concepts such as atomic structure, periodic trends, and bonding, providing a solid foundation for the rest of the book.
The authors then delve into more advanced topics including thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, and equilibrium. These chapters employ a problem-solving approach, encouraging students to think critically and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.
One of the key strengths of this book is its numerous real-world applications. Petrucci and his team have included a wide range of examples and case studies that demonstrate how chemistry is relevant in our daily lives. From explaining the process of food digestion to discussing the role of renewable energy sources, these applications help students understand the practical applications of chemistry and reinforce key concepts.
New to This Edition
The 11th edition of General Chemistry includes several new features and updates to keep up with the rapidly evolving field of chemistry. The authors have added new sections on cutting-edge topics such as green chemistry, nanotechnology, and materials chemistry.
The book also has a new emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with discussions on the contributions of underrepresented groups in chemistry and their impact on the field. In addition, Petrucci and his team have updated the end-of-chapter problems and added new examples and case studies to reflect the latest research and applications.
Final Thoughts
General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications by Ralph H. Petrucci is a comprehensive and well-rounded textbook that provides a solid foundation in general chemistry principles. With its clear explanations, real-world examples, and integration of modern technology, this book is an invaluable resource for students studying chemistry. Whether you are just starting your chemistry journey or are looking to deepen your understanding of key concepts, this book is an excellent choice.