From down under

Chemistry

Alan Blackman, Steven Bottle, Siegbert Schmid, Mauro Mocerino and Uta Wille  

Milton, Australia: John Wiley Australia 2008 | 1071pp | ?38.99 (SB) ISBN 978047810866 

Reviewed by Tom Salkeild    

This is a single-volume chemistry book developed for first-year chemistry courses in Australia and New Zealand. It is an authorised adaptation of three US textbooks, bringing the text closer to the courses taught in Australasian universities. Although covering the basic principles behind physical, organic and inorganic chemistry, there is an emphasis on organic chemistry which is introduced from the early chapters and integrated throughout the book. 

There are over 30 local examples designed to highlight the connections between chemistry and the world surrounding the students. These examples emphasise the high-quality research which is being carried out in Australasia by leading researchers in such subject areas as green chemistry, materials and nanotechnology. 

This book is beautifully illustrated; it also features good worked examples and review questions and problems which emphasise key concepts chapter-by-chapter to reinforce learning.