Quantum Theory of the Chemical Bond (Hameka, H. F.)

be used as the basis for a goad course in classical thermodynamics at the graduate- senior level. The hoak ... the primary data of our science are rec...
3 downloads 8 Views 673KB Size
book reviews madynamics of aqueous electrolyte solutions. The Debye-Huckel Theory for activity coefficients is introduced with a minimum of background. Moderately dilute electrolytes are treated with the Bronsted-Guggenheim modification of the Dehye-Huckel Theory. Apparent molal enthalpy of solution and partial molal enthalpy of electrolyte solutions arr discussed briefly but clearly. A special topics chapter on phase and Gibbs energy diagrams and surface tension, with brief paragraphs on gravitational, electric, and magnetic fields concludes the book. It is interesting to compare both the present book and other thermodynamics books with the sequence of topics in teaching chemical thermodynamics suggested several years ago by F. D. Rassini (''Pure and Applied Chemistry," 18, 405 (1969)). The present book contains most of Professor Rossini's suggested topics in s not too different sequence. The main point of departure ison the use of the Carnot cycle. "Thermcdynamics" by N. A. Gokcen could be used as the basis for a goad course in classical thermodynamics a t the graduatesenior level. The hoak does appear to he slanted a little more to the interests of chemical engineering, metallurgy, and materials science students than t o the interests of many present day chemistry majors. H. Lawrence Clever E m q University Atlanta. Georgia 30322

A392 / Journal of Chemical Education

Quantum Theory of the Chemical ~ o n d

H. F. Hameka, University of Pennsylvania. Hafner Press, A Division of Macmil-

+

Ian PublishingCa., New Ybrk, 1975. vii 312 pp. Figs. and tables. 24.5 X 15.5 cm. $16.95.

Two major trends appear to be affecting the teaching of undergraduate and beginning graduate training in physical chemistry. The first is the fact that, in keeping with physics, the primary data of our science are receding rapidly from direct sensory perception. The second is that average performance levels of students, as measured by SAT scores, ete., are receding rapidly from reasonable levels. The ability to reason abstractly and to manipulate symbols is measured by the second trend; the need to dosoisimposed by the first. The effect of synergy here is ohvious. Having established the necessity far a text at this level, it pains me to have to report that I d o n o t believe this