Best introductory general chemistry text?

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SUMMARY

The discussion identifies several recommended general chemistry textbooks for students seeking rigorous study materials. Key titles include "General Chemistry: Principles and Structure" by James E. Brady and Gerard E. Humiston, "Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change" by Martin Silberberg, "Chemistry: The Central Science" by Theodore E. Brown et al., and "Chemistry" by Raymond Chang. Additional mentions include Linus Pauling's "General Chemistry," noted for its compact size and comprehensive coverage. The "Molecular Approach" by Nivaldo Tro is also highlighted as effective for introductory courses.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic chemistry concepts
  • Familiarity with chemical equilibrium principles
  • Knowledge of molecular structure and reactions
  • Ability to analyze textbook content for self-study
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "General Chemistry: Principles and Structure" by Brady and Humiston
  • Explore "Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change" by Silberberg
  • Investigate "Chemistry: The Central Science" by Brown et al.
  • Review "Molecular Approach" by Nivaldo Tro for AP Chemistry suitability
USEFUL FOR

Students in introductory chemistry courses, high school AP chemistry students, and educators seeking effective teaching resources will benefit from this discussion.

PhizKid
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Our class doesn't use a textbook and our professor doesn't give out much notes. Just handouts with problems on it. So I wanted a textbook to accompany my studies but don't know which is the best/rigorious general chemistry textbook.
 
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Oxtoby is fairly good.
 
I have checked out a bunch of general chemistry textbooks. Four are really excellent.

General Chemistry: Principles and Structure by James E. Brady and Gerard E. Humiston (this book's coverage of physical and chemical equilibrium is excellent)
Chemistry: The Molecular Nature of Matter and Change by Martin Silberberg
Chemistry: The Central Science by Theodore E. Brown et. al
Chemistry by Raymond Chang

And these too books are pretty good, but not great, in my opinion.
General Chemistry by Darrell Ebbing
Chemistry by Julia Burge
 
Linus Pauling's "General Chemistry" is the standard old school book. It's cheap and not unnecessarily big, your back will not suffer from carrying it around unlike most other books.

Covers 3 semesters worth of freshman-level chemistry theory and would be good for a high school student too.
 
Last edited:
Second vote for Chang.
 
Lavabug said:
Linus Pauling's "General Chemistry" is the standard old school book. It's cheap and not unnecessarily big, your back will not suffer from carrying it around unlike most other books.

Covers 3 semesters worth of freshman-level chemistry theory and would be good for a high school student too.
Seconded. I purchased Pauling's book for self-study and it worked out great.
 
What about A molecular approach by Nivaldo ?
 
We are using molecular approach by Nivaldo Tro for gen chem 1, this is my first chem class and I'm not having any issues understanding.
 
  • #10
462chevelle said:
We are using molecular approach by Nivaldo Tro for gen chem 1, this is my first chem class and I'm not having any issues understanding.
Do you recommend it for AP chem ?
 
  • #11
I don't see why not, AP chem is supposed to be a substitute for gen chem 1 for college.
 
  • #12
462chevelle said:
I don't see why not, AP chem is supposed to be a substitute for gen chem 1 for college.

I've seen that it has got very good reviews on Amazon, Do you think it's the best ?
 
  • #13
It's the only chem book I have ever used. My school is a high ranked pharmacy school and we have a good chem program, so I would think its a good book.
 
  • #14
462chevelle said:
It's the only chem book I have ever used. My school is a high ranked pharmacy school and we have a good chem program, so I would think its a good book.
Thanks !
 
  • #15
My grandson had AP chemistry last year and they used Chemistry: Principles and Reactions by Masterton et al. I thought it was a pretty good book.

Chet
 

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