BOOK REVIEWS ment thc discussion which is usually written in a simple, easily read style. The concont of enerw levels in atomic struc-
is carried into several illustrations, including those that deal with ionic and oovalent bonding. Other topics commendably introduced hy simple analogy and amplified by figures are oxidation and reduct,ion, lone refining, buffers, equilibrium, and ionization. At times, it may appear uncertain that the illustrations are comprehensible at the clementsry level of the dimmion, but m o ~ of t these analogy-figure treatments should provide a suitable learning situation for the beginning student. The author seeks to show the reasonableness in chemistry, and he seems to achieve his goal in general. However, the reader is led to view c h e m i s t ~as a mysterious suhjert without adequate basis in the areas of atomic theory, the absolute zero, t,he atomic nucleus, the nuclear energy, and certain of the aspects of metallurgy. The author's analogy of Rutherford's experimenGin which alpha, particles are 15 inch artillery shells and the target atoms are cities defended with tissue paper-is probably more difficult to understand than the actual experiment itself. Attempts to show the rensonsblenes~of organic reaction mechanisms, acids and hascs, and ionic equilibria are at least pertially successful. In an elementary course the danger of oversimplification constantly plagues both tho texthoak aobhor and the instructor. These potential half-truths are bravely faced by the author, and the reader is warned to beware of them. In two in~tancea,however, the author has indulged in erroneous oversimplification. He makes a direct analogy hetaeen grade distrihutions (Gaussian) and gas velocity distributions (Maxwllian), and he s h o w equal hond lengths between hydrogen and oxygen in the hydrogen hond structure of water. These misrepresentations are hardly warranted. From the standpoint of product,ian, the book is clmn, it has an att,rsctive format, and its binding should withstand ordinary student usage.
W. H. SLARAUGK Oregon State ColIege Comllis
Coreerr and Opportunities in Chemistry
Philip Pollack, with introduction by Gemge M. Murphy, New York University. E. P. Dutton & Co., Inc., New York, 1960. xii 147 pp. Illustrated. 14 X 21 em. $3.50.
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As an ex-educator now in industry, this reviewer finds Mr. Pollack's book both accurate and reahtic. The author successfully combines a certain degree of romance with actuality in discussing
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A762 / Journol of Chemical Education
BOOK REVIEWS career opportunities in chemistry. The romantic element is designed to make the book appealing to high school students for whom it is primarily wribten. Careers in chemistry are made to appear enticing but not unduly so, for the author is realistic in his portrayal of all facets of the topic. One reason for Mr. Pollack's success in tlceurately depicting the current situs, tion in chemistry ns a. career is that he has d r m from oridnal sources. He has made abundant use of article8 appearing in recent issues of chemical periodicals. Mr. Pollack tells us what a chemist is, how one learns to be a chemist, and what the chemist does in his professional life. Starting with a remarkably concise history of the subjcct, we are quickly transported to our present technological age, which would be impossible without tho chemist. Educational requirements are stated clearly and candidly ("Education for a, career in chemistry should begin in high school, where you should take as many courses in chemistry, physics, and mathematics s s possible"). Several chapters are devoted to a detailed survey of a. number of specialized fields of chemistry. I n each case the opportunities and special skills involved are described. The career opportunities of the profession, including typical sahries and future demands for chemists, are carefully documented. The book is enlivened by true accounts of problems attacked and solved by chemists. Exsmples include nylon by Carothers and cortisone by Kondall. Pertinent quotes of industrial research administrators (a. typiod exsmple: "Just t r y to recall one eminently successful research chemist who operated on a 9:OO a.m. to 5:00 p.m., five-day-a-week schedule!") and university professors ("I foresee the day when many of these mental diseases will be treated by artificial enzymes") are provided. Two other vital fields of work far chemists, technical selling and commercial chemical development, are explored in detail. Special attention is d m given t o the excellent opportunities for women chemixts and chemical engineers. A special appendix lists the educational institutions granting degrees in chemistry and chemical engineering which rue ap. proved by profeasionel organizations. This book, written in clear, nontechnicel lenguage, will appeal not only to students a t all levels, but also to educators and to anyone curious about what chemists do.
ROLLAND J. GLADIEUX Union Carbide Metals Conpmy Niagara Falls, New Ymk
A764 / Journal of Chemical Education
