Seeking recommendation for rigorous general chemistry textbook

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for a rigorous general chemistry textbook suitable for someone with a background in math and physics. Participants explore various textbooks and their appropriateness based on the user's desire for a mathematically rigorous approach, including the use of calculus and other advanced topics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a textbook that incorporates calculus and higher mathematics, suggesting a preference for a rigorous presentation of chemistry.
  • Participants mention "Chemical Principles" by Atkins and "Principles of Modern Chemistry" by Oxtoby as potential options, questioning which might be more suitable.
  • Another participant recommends "Chemistry: The Central Science" by Brown, LeMay, and Bursten, providing a link for reference.
  • One participant suggests "Physical Chemistry" by Atkins or McQuarrie, noting their suitability for advanced courses that utilize multivariable calculus and other mathematical concepts.
  • There is a suggestion to also consider a separate book on analytical chemistry for foundational topics like acid/base equilibria.
  • Another participant expresses a preference for Oxtoby, especially for those interested in the physics aspects of chemistry.
  • A later reply mentions Linus Pauling's "General Chemistry" as a valuable, albeit older, text.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on which textbooks are most appropriate, with no consensus reached on a single recommendation. Some participants favor Oxtoby, while others suggest different texts based on varying criteria.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding the mixed reviews of the suggested textbooks and the appropriateness of their mathematical rigor for the user's background.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals seeking a rigorous approach to general chemistry, particularly those with a strong background in mathematics and physics, may find this discussion beneficial.

mosenja
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Title says it all.

But to further elaborate... it's been about 12 years since I had general chemistry, I don't remember any of it, and would like to pick up a textbook to refresh my knowledge. I majored in math and physics, so I would prefer the book not to dodge the use of, say, calculus, other 'higher mathematics', introductory QM, or thermo, if it would be useful giving a rigorous presentation of the material.

A little research has lead to the books Chemical Principles by Atkins and Principles of Modern Chemistry by Oxtoby. Which would be more appropriate for my situation? Or are there other books better suited to me? Any recommendations are appreciated. Thanks!
 
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Ok, maybe my question was a bit too general and/or vague.

The reviews on amazon.com for those two books are quite mixed, and some are irrelevant. Does anyone here have anything good or bad to say about either of them? If you have used either in the past, would you recommend it?
 
You're in a weird situation. You should get Physical Chemistry by Atkins or Physical Chemistry by McQuarrie. Those are books appropriate for junior/senior courses that use multivariable calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, group theory, etc. On the other hand, I would then recommend you pick up a separate book on analytical chemistry to get the introduction to acid/base equilibria and gravimetric methods among other things. There's a Schaum's Outline of Analytical Chemistry.

Alternatively, you can pick up either of those books you mentioned, I would lean towards Oxtoby, and get the full freshman chemistry curriculum, but you won't get any math above algebra being used.
 
Oxtoby! Especially if you're more inclined to appreciate the physics behind the chemistry
 
Sorry if I'm late, but Linus Pauling's General Chemistry is a wonderful (albeit old) text.
 

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