book reviews matrix diagonalization program calculates one of the diagonal elements n times (for an n x n matrix) instead of once, because of the misplacement of the relevant statement within a Imp (statement 13 on p. 99). Another one (p. 127) solemnly multiplies every element of a n array hy 1.0; the author gives no hint of what this is supposed to accomplish. More serious is the lack of a n index, despite the author's excuse that the subject matter is too restricted to merit one. Though there are useful suggestions for further reading after each chapter, there is no real bibliography. Perhaps related to this is the author's apparent reluctance to use the names of scientists associated with the concepts he discusses. Thus determinantal forms for wave functions are used throughout hut are never associated with the name of Slater; the book is mostly about molecular arbitals, hut Mulliken is mentioned only in connection with population analysis; and the name of Bays does not occur anywhere, though all the basis orbitals used are Gaussians. Finally, after comparatively mild criticism of the author, I must add afew much harsher words for the publisher. This hook is reproduced photographically from a typed manuscript-a procedure which, by eliminating typesetting, should cut the production cost roughly in half. This would be commendable, despite the less attractive appearance, if the savings were reflected in the price. But a comparison of the price of this book-about $0.10 a page
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Journalof Chemical Education
w i t h other currently published scientific books indicates that it is among the most expensive. No doubt, the small prospective market of a hook on this topic prevents a low price, hut this one seems designed to assure that the market will be not merely small hut minute. Charles E . Reid University of Florida Gainesvilie, Florida 3261 1
CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 54th Edition
Editor-in-Chief, Robert C. Weast. CRC Press, Inc.' 18901 Cranwood Parkway, Cleveland, Ohio 44128. 1973. xnv + 2436 pp. 26 x 21.5cm. $25.95. Readers of these columns should not forget this annual classic compendium of reference information. This edition is slightly smaller in dimension hut still weighs nearly five pounds. One good feature remains: most tables can be read without the aid of a magnifying glass. An improved feature is the 7000-entry index.
Specialist Periodical Reports This series, published by the Chemical Society, London, England, will ultimately include 40 titles. The following six volumes are the first in their respective series. Each volume contains chapters by eontributors reviewing progress in their fields of special research interest. All are available from the Publications Sales Officer, The Chemical Soeiety, Blackhorse Road,
Letchworth, Herts., SGGlHN England. Biosynthesis Volume 1
T A. G e i s s m a ~et ol, Senior Reporter. The Chemical Society, London, 1972. 14.5 x 22 cm. t6.50. Chemical ThermodynamicsVolume 1
M. L. McGlashan, Senior Reporter. The Chemical Society, London, 1973. 14.5 22 cm. t8.00.
X
Dielectric and Relate Molecular Processes Volume 1 Manse1 Douies, Senior Reporter. The Chemical Society, London, 1972. 14.5 X 22 cm. f8.00. Electron Spin Resonance Volume 1
R. 0.C. Norman. Senior Reoorkr. The Chemical society; London, 1973. 14.5 X 22cm. t7.00. Organometallic Chemistry Volume 1
E. W. Abel and F. G. A. Stow, Senior Reporters. The Chemical Society, London, 1972. 14.5 X 22 em. f9.00. Radiochemistry Volume 1
G. W. A. Norton. et ol. Senior Rewrter. The Chemical Society, London,' 1972. 14.5 X 22 cm. C4.50. WFK
(Continued onpage A144J
