Chasing the Molecule

by John N Buckingham

In this fascinating book, Dr Buckingham unravels the story of one of perhaps the most important and influential scientific developement in the 19th century. The discovery of molecules--and its constituents.

Genres: Science, History, Nonfiction, Chemistry, Biography

262 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Beth Robinson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a thorough covering of the origins of organic chemistry, from when the existence of atoms was debatable through the acceptance of molecular structure determining the properties of organic molecules. Buckingham does a great job at showing how the basic principles we learned in high school weren't always accepted or obvious. He describes theories that were rejected eventually with as much respect as those adopted and also goes into the personal and political relationships that influenced various discoveries.

The tone is that of a history book, not a general science book, and it's a bit drier and more detailed so I though it was published longer ago than it was. I say this not as a detraction, just to set expectations. It is very readable within this style and well-balanced in how he presents the people and the chemical information. I learned many new things and enjoyed it.

[Malcolm Balster · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a reread of a book that I have previously recommended to potential chemistry undergraduates, for it is a fine history of the development of tha molecular model through the eighteenth, nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

[Sabot · Rating 3 out of 5]

A interesting blend of scientific history and chemistry 101, detailing the (sometimes haphazard) course from alchemy to modern understanding. I would recommend this book to anybody interested in the subject, regardless of their knowledge of chemistry. The only real complaint I have is that I found it hard to keep track of the many different names in the book, though perhaps I am more to blame for this fault than the author.

[Jake · Rating 3 out of 5]

if you like organic chemistry and the history of science you may like this book