WIE Physical Chemistry

by Robert J. Silbey, Robert A. Alberty

Ever since Physical Chemistry was first published in 1913 (then titled Outlines of Theoretical Chemistry, by Frederick Getman), it has remained a highly effective and relevant learning tool thanks to the efforts of physical chemists from all over the world. Each new edition has benefited from their suggestions and expert advice. The result of this remarkable tradition is now in your hands. Now revised and updated, this Fourth Edition of  Physical Chemistry by Silbey, Alberty, and Bawendi continues to present exceptionally clear explanations of concepts and methods. The basic theory of chemistry is presented from the viewpoint of academic physical chemists, but detailed discussions of practical applications are integrated throughout. The problems in the book also skillfully blend theory and applications. Highlights of the Fourth

Genres: Chemistry, Textbooks, Science, Reference

960 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Satyaki · Rating 4 out of 5]

MIT 5.60 Thermodynamics & Kinetics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7mrS...

[Steve Stuart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I used this (third) edition of Silbey & Alberty for several years in teaching an undergraduate PChem course. Not because it's perfect, but just because it's less imperfect than most of the others.

It has all of the standard topics, in a fairly standard order. The notation is consistent, and not too annoying. (Everyone will find something to object to in every book, whether it's the sign convention for heat and work, the adherence to IUPAC symbology for heats of vaporization, or the variables used for quantum numbers.) The level of detail is appropriate for students with a decent background in calculus: it provides derivations for most (but not all) topics that I would expect, but doesn't go into so much depth that you find yourself skipping large sections in a standard undergrad course. The students didn't enjoy reading this text, but I have yet to find a PChem text that most students will enjoy on their first pass. The in-text problems are generally pretty good. There are a few errors in the solutions manual (as always), but the text is fairly mature.

On the whole, Silbey & Alberty is a good, inoffensive choice for a traditional PChem course , especially if you don't like the Atkins. But if you have the flexibility to consider a quantum-first approach or a bio emphasis, there are better choices.

[Roderick Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great starter book for P-Chem especially if you want to make it thru the class alive as well as sane!!!!!!