Understanding Molecules

The following review appeared in the July 2019 issue of CHOICE.

Anyone who has taught chemistry to engineers understands that their needs are different from those of a typical chemistry major, biology major, or premed student. Understanding Molecules: Lectures on Chemistry for Physicists and Engineers aims to provide an introduction to chemistry for a group of mathematically oriented students who might only take one class in chemistry. After a brief introduction to atoms, stoichiometry, and the nucleus, the text's major focus is on the physical behavior of atoms and molecules through bonding, spectroscopy, thermodynamics, equilibrium, kinetics, and electrochemistry. It is not a one-volume substitute for a degree in chemistry, however. People with a strong mathematical bent are going to find the book more approachable than those who shy away from books with a high equations-per-page ratio. Like any physical chemistry text, readers need some knowledge of physics, calculus, and linear algebra to make the best use of the book. It is a serious read without splashy photos or sidebars on chemical applications. The book is the entryway to the language of chemistry and the behavior of chemical systems. This is the right book for a niche audience of those seeking a brief look at chemistry from a very mathematical perspective.

--J. A. Bartz, Kalamazoo College

Summing Up: Recommended. Advanced undergraduates through faculty and professionals.