From my high school days, I remember that chemistry books used to be extremely tedious and complicated; only true science fanatics could enjoy this convoluted read. the time has changed! now the shelves are full of fascinating chemistry books that are great for self-study and suitable for beginners! If you’re looking for an easy-to-read chemistry book before college, when all the comprehensive studies start, there will be a gift for you too! Here is a list of chemistry books that all undergraduate students should be familiar with.
things that matter: chemistry book to read before university
miodownik brand, things matter: exploring the wonderful materials that shape our man-made world
You are reading: Chemistry books for beginners
Things Matter takes you on an exploration of 11 man-made materials we take for granted, including paper, porcelain, plastic, steel, glass, and…chocolate. the emphasis is on the history of these materials as well as their current application.
You’ll also learn a lot about why these materials have their properties and functions: durability, elasticity, elasticity (that’s where a lot of chemistry comes into play). none of the material is demonized (which is often the case with plastic), and all the “stuff” gets a fair shake.
mark miodownik, professor of materials science at ucl, reveals the miracles and amazing stories behind these mundane materials. this book will definitely convince you that chemistry can be an exciting story (and not a boring recital of formulas and functions). That’s why it’s the best pre-college read to put your passion for chemistry to the test when crucial decisions about study tracks and courses lie ahead.
napoleon buttons: one of the best chemistry books for beginners
penny le couteur and jay burreson, napoleon’s buttons: how 17 molecules changed history
this is a modern classic in the history of science and technology, first published in 1991. napoleon’s buttons give you a fascinating and educational read on 17 molecules, eg ascorbic acid (vitamin c), artificial hormones , tin , glucose and salt (who would have thought that these topics could be described as interesting?).
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It can be read as an exciting novel with elements of detectives and suspense, written by a duo of authors who nurture a passion for chemistry with a keen eye for detail. Penny Le Couteur and Jay Burreson will share with you how these molecules altered our diets, defined the outcomes of wars, and influenced the making of laws. Adventurous narratives and easily understandable explanations make Napoleon’s Buttons one of the best chemistry books for college students. chemistry makes the world go round!
the elements: the best chemistry book for self-study
Theodore Grey, The Elements: A Visual Exploration of Every Known Atom in the Universe
is the most visually appealing chemistry book you will find. Each items page features fantastic quality photos depicting each item. every chemistry student should have this edition as their desk book!
Each entry is provided with a brief history of an element and its extensive characteristics, making the book a useful reference resource or introductory chemistry textbook for college students. In either case, you’ll find the items to be a cheerful and worthwhile addition to your library. If you have friends who study chemistry, I bet this would be a perfect gift for them.
the disappearing spoon: the best chemistry book for beginners
sam kean, the disappearing spoon: and other true tales of madness, love, and the history of the world of the periodic table of the elements
There is no chemistry without the periodic table of elements. The Disappearing Spoon takes this statement even further: Some famous scientists and even authors (such as Mark Twain) would not have experienced passion, love, and madness were it not for the periodic table.
But the book isn’t just about a handful of fascinating stories. behind them is a series of very attractive questions: why do things appear as they are? How did people first come across chemical elements? this second layer is very thought provoking and makes the disappearing spoon a great chemistry book for self-study.
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You will learn how the periodic table works and why it is structured in this particular way. Sam Kean will also guide you through the history of some of the elements: from its discovery to its current application, and between wishes of lies, ruined careers, success, marriages, fame, and big parties. definitely one of the most fascinating chemistry books to read!
wonder why this book has such a strange title? check out this disappearing gallium spoon trick.
timberlake chemistry: the best college chemistry textbook
karen c. timberlake, chemistry: an introduction to general, organic, and biological chemistry
Why is it important to study chemistry in college, especially if it’s not your major? If you are still wondering, one of the best accessible chemistry textbooks, The Chemistry of Timberlake, will give you an answer.
Karen Timberlake is a renowned chemistry teacher and textbook author, so her name on a cover is a sure sign of quality. In this textbook, she covers both organic and inorganic chemistry, making it an excellent introductory read, capable of giving you a basic understanding of the subject. And most importantly, no prior knowledge is required to study this textbook.
It is important to highlight that chemistry is not presented as an isolated field but rather linked to health and the environment. therefore, the textbook is highly applicable for those considering careers in these spheres. It’s also a must-read for medical students, as Timberlake offers examples from actual medical practice.
Obviously chemistry – an introduction is not fit for a fun hobby. It’s not written to become your favorite nonfiction book like others on the list; however, it is one of the best basic chemistry books for beginners. If you have already decided to study chemistry at university, buy this textbook without hesitation.
These best books for college chemistry students will definitely confirm your opinion that this topic is both fun to study and crucial to understanding our everyday lives and stories.
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