Best Intro Gen Chem Textbook w/ *Conceptual* Questions?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on finding a rigorous introductory general chemistry textbook that emphasizes conceptual understanding over quantitative problem-solving. Participants mention the need for a book that covers topics such as chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, electronic structure, electrochemistry, and acid-base equilibria, while also providing thought-provoking questions similar to those found in older Giancoli Physics texts. Recommendations include "Silberberg" for its decent content and "Linus Pauling" for those with a calculus background, highlighting the importance of engaging with material that fosters deeper learning.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general chemistry concepts, including chemical kinetics and thermodynamics.
  • Familiarity with electronic structure and electrochemistry principles.
  • Basic knowledge of acid-base equilibria.
  • Calculus proficiency for advanced texts like Linus Pauling.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "Silberberg General Chemistry" for its conceptual approach and rigor.
  • Explore "Linus Pauling's General Chemistry" to assess its suitability for calculus users.
  • Investigate additional resources that provide conceptual questions in chemistry.
  • Look into supplementary materials that enhance understanding of chemical principles through problem-solving.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students, educators, and self-learners seeking a comprehensive and thought-provoking approach to introductory general chemistry, particularly those looking to deepen their conceptual understanding.

ricorico
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Hello all,

I was wondering, what is a really great introductory general chemistry book/source (covers chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, electronic structure, electrochemistry, acid-base equilibria, etc.) that has a lot of conceptual questions and not just quantitative? An example is like the end of chapter questions in the older Giancoli Physics texts. I would like this book's content to still be rigorous.

The reason why I ask is because I have taken general chemistry, and I know it well in my opinion (at least from in the context of academia a.k.a getting an A on a test, but that doesn't mean anything nowadays), however my textbook was primarily plug and chug, and didn't have many questions forcing me to think about changing situations, perturbing conditions, or analyzing charts, etc. Coupled with my background as a trained mathematician, the plug and chug route was a bore and I felt like I didn't learn as much as I could have.

Thank you!
 
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ricorico said:
Hello all,

I was wondering, what is a really great introductory general chemistry book/source (covers chemical kinetics, thermodynamics, electronic structure, electrochemistry, acid-base equilibria, etc.) that has a lot of conceptual questions and not just quantitative? An example is like the end of chapter questions in the older Giancoli Physics texts. I would like this book's content to still be rigorous.

The reason why I ask is because I have taken general chemistry, and I know it well in my opinion (at least from in the context of academia a.k.a getting an A on a test, but that doesn't mean anything nowadays), however my textbook was primarily plug and chug, and didn't have many questions forcing me to think about changing situations, perturbing conditions, or analyzing charts, etc. Coupled with my background as a trained mathematician, the plug and chug route was a bore and I felt like I didn't learn as much as I could have.

Thank you!

What book did you use for your intro class? We used Silberberg, wasn't a bad book, but I'm not sure how "rigorous" it was.
 
If you know calculus maybe try Linus Pauling?

I never took a chemistry course, however, I self studied from that book. I really liked it and it didn't feel like plug n chug.
 

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