General Chemistry 2e (R) /SM: Intro Neuros 2/E, T

Some years ago, as a first year student of physics, I had a course in chemistry that I thought I would never pass - it had been years since I graduated from high school, so I could not remember much of the chemistry classes, and chemistry had never been my favorite subject anyway. This course was based on the worst example of a European textbook (filled with information, but extremely hard to grasp), it was impossible to understand chemistry from this source only. So I looked for alternatives.By sheer luck, I stumbled upon Atkins' book on a bookstore shelf. As soon as I started reading it, I was captivated. Everything that did not make much sense in the other book now was perfectly clear. The illustrations are beautiful, e.g. giving you a feel of what each element looks like in vivid color. This was one of the best textbooks I had ever encountered. It only took me a month or two to learn it all from cover to cover, and I guess what? - I passed the exam with an A, and with the compliments of the professor, congratulating me for my thorough knowledge - something I wouldn't dream of just a few months before. This was the first example for me of what a difference a good textbook can make.If you want to learn and understand chemistry, even if you're starting from scratch, this is the book to use!Later on, I read several other Atkins' books. His writing is truly remarkable, passing on not merely knowledge, but insight. I would recommend also "The 2nd Law".

Ever since I can remember I despised everything that had to do with physics, chemistry and natural science, even though I was good at math. When enrolling in high school we began learning chemistry at a higher level, and I immidiately felt captivated. I bought this book and suddenly it was all much clearer, no it's not a commercial, it's solid fact, that this book changed my view of the world. I read in it on a daily basis and find it fascinating to read the two authors' descriptions of the wonders of molecyles, atoms, pH, ions and physical chemistry, it has opened a doorway to a whole new world. I really owe my recently acquired interest in chemistry to books like this one. Buy it!

Beautiful book! Reads easily, great diagrams, and pretty pictures. Since Atkins is an excellent physical chemist, his chapters on physical chemistry are the best in the book.