Chemistry: Atoms First

by Julia R. Burdge, Jason Overby (Contributor)

The Atoms First approach provides a consistent and logical method for teaching general chemistry. This approach starts with the fundamental building block of matter, the atom, and uses it as the stepping-stone to understanding more complex chemistry topics. Once mastery of the nature of atoms and electrons is achieved, the formation and properties of compounds are developed. Only after the study of matter and the atom will students have sufficient background to fully engage in topics such as stoichiometry, kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics. Thus, the Atoms First approach empowers instructors to present the most complete and compelling story of general chemistry. Far from a simple re-ordering of topics, this is a book that will truly meet the needs of the growing atoms-first market. The fourth edition continues to build on the innovative success of the previous three editions. Changes to this edition include specific refinements intended to augment the student-centered pedagogical features that continue to make this book effective and popular both with professors, and with their students.

1216 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2011

Reviews

[Brianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was okay, but not great. It didn’t explain everything as clearly as I would have liked, but it made sense having taken a chemistry class before reading this. However, I disliked the format and there were a few grammar and spelling errors I noticed. I also did the online assignments connected to the book and they were pretty annoying.

[Sara Childers · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lots and lots of misprints in the text and the online homework companion. Additionally, some concepts were poorly explained and I had to search through different chemistry books in order to fully comprehend what I was learning. I would not recommend this book until revisions are made to save the reader from copious amounts of frustration.