Chemistry textbook for physics majors?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on finding chemistry textbooks suitable for physics majors, particularly those who have completed junior and senior-level physics courses. Recommended texts include "Principles of Modern Chemistry" by Oxtoby and "Chemical Principles" by Atkins, both of which provide a physical chemistry perspective that integrates physics concepts. The participant emphasizes the importance of a solid foundation in general chemistry before delving into more complex topics like kinetics and thermodynamics. The consensus is that these resources will effectively bridge the gap between chemistry and physics for students.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of general chemistry concepts
  • Familiarity with junior and senior-level physics
  • Basic knowledge of physical chemistry principles
  • Mathematical skills relevant to chemistry
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore "Principles of Modern Chemistry" by Oxtoby for a physics-oriented approach to chemistry
  • Study "Chemical Principles" by Atkins to deepen understanding of physical chemistry
  • Investigate analytical chemistry textbooks for advanced mathematical treatment of acid-base concepts
  • Review topics in kinetics, thermodynamics, and intermolecular forces for a comprehensive understanding
USEFUL FOR

Physics majors, chemistry students, and educators seeking to integrate physics concepts into chemistry education will benefit from this discussion.

jack476
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I've only had a single semester of general chemistry but am in my third year of physics and will be taking general chemistry II this upcoming semester.

In addition to the assigned text (Chemistry: A Molecular Approach, Tro) what I'm wondering is whether there are any textbooks that treat the ideas of chemistry as results obtained from physics at a difficulty level appropriate for someone who's had junior and senior level physics courses. Basically something that presents chemistry as an extension of physics.
 
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That is the book I used for general chemistry, if you want a physics type treatment you should hit up a physical chemistry book.
If you want a more in depth math approach to the acid base type stuff an analytical chemistry book would work. Although I don't know how far you would get without mastering it at a gen chem level. I loved kinetics, thermo, and intermolecular forces, I hated acid base/equilibrium problems.
 
Either "Principles of Modern Chemistry" by Oxtoby or "Chemical Principles" by Atkins will be a great textbook that serves your need. Both books are physical-chemistry-oriented gen.chem. books that are heavy on both physics and mathematics.
 
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Why over think it... take it for what it is, a freshman course and have a course where you can most likely get an easy A without too much work.
 

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