Is McQuarrie's Quantum Chemistry Worth Reading?

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SUMMARY

Donald McQuarrie's book "Quantum Chemistry" has received mixed reviews. While the chapter on formalism and the historical context provided in chapter 1 are praised for their clarity and helpfulness, the book is criticized for being too mathematically light and attempting to cover an overly broad range of topics, including quantum mechanics, spectroscopy, and computational chemistry. The author's analogies, particularly between the classical wave equation and the Schrödinger equation, have also been met with disapproval.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with spectroscopy concepts
  • Basic knowledge of computational chemistry techniques
  • Mathematical proficiency in linear algebra and differential equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced quantum mechanics textbooks for deeper mathematical insights
  • Research spectroscopy techniques and their applications in quantum chemistry
  • Study computational chemistry software tools for practical applications
  • Investigate the historical development of quantum theory and its key figures
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in chemistry, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and computational methods, as well as educators seeking supplementary materials for teaching quantum chemistry concepts.

For those who have used this book

  • Strongly Recommend

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Lightly Recommend

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • Lightly don't Recommend

    Votes: 1 100.0%

  • Strongly don't Recommend

    Votes: 0 0.0%
  • Total voters
    1
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I don't like this book. I don't really think there is any reason it needs to exist.

Pros: His chapter on formalism is good. I like that he takes an axiomatic point of view. For those that need it, his math interludes are helpful. I enjoy his historical chapter on quantum a lot (chapter 1).

Cons: It is too mathematically light and attempts to cover too much material. It is a book on quantum mechanics, spectroscopy and computational chemistry all mixed into one text. I don't like how he goes about making an analog between the classical wave equation and the Schrödinger equation.
 

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