Atkins' Molecules / Edition 2

by Peter Atkins

Overview

In this new edition of the book that was called "the most beautiful chemistry book ever written," Peter Atkins reveals the molecules responsible for the experiences of our everyday life in fabrics, drugs, plastics, explosives, detergents, fragrances, tastes, and sex. Atkins gives a non-technical account of a range of aspects of the world around us, revealing unexpected connections and insight into how it can be understood in terms of the atoms and molecules from which it is built. This new edition has dozens of new molecules, new graphic presentations, and a more accessible account of the molecules themselves. Peter Atkins is SmithKline Beecham Fellow and Tutor in Physical Chemistry at Oxford University. Atkins' research includes the fields of theoretical chemistry, particularly magnetic resonance and the electromagnetic properties of molecules. He spends virtually all his time writing books, which range from bestselling college textbooks to books on science for general audiences, including Galileo's Finger (Oxford, 2003); The Periodic Kingdom (Basic Books, 1997); The Second Law (W.H. Freeman, 1995); and Atoms, Electrons, and Change (W.H. Freeman, 1991). Previous Edition Paperback (W.H. Freeman, 1995) 0-7167-2928-8

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521535366
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	09/25/2003
Edition description:	REV
Pages:	244
Product dimensions:	7.44(w) x 9.72(h) x 0.75(d)

About the Author

P. W. Atkins is a fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford, and Professor of Physical Chemistry. His works include The Periodic Kingdom, Atoms, Electrons, and Change as well as the best-selling textbook Physical Chemistry.

Table of Contents

Preface; Introduction; 1. Simple substances; 2. Fuels, fats and soaps; 3. Synthetic and natural polymers; 4. Taste, smell, and pain; 5. Sight and colour; 6. The light and the dark; 7. Life.

Editorial Reviews

"This is undoubtedly the most beautiful chemistry book ever written." New Scientist

"We need to be reminded that matter, ordinary matter, is mysterious and magical. In Atkins' delightful book, the Cinderella of chemistry begins to look a lot like a beautiful princess." Boston Globe

From the Publisher