Energy Levels in Atoms and Molecules (Oxford Chemistry Primers)

This text is interesting because it is perhaps the only one of its kind: a short, introductory book solely devoted to the discussion of energy levels, and the application of those concepts, for example to NMR spectroscopy. The level of rigor and detail here is quite high, on the order of most physical chemistry texts. I should note, however, that the mathematics are mostly absent--for a rigorous mathematical treatment, McQuarrie and Simon's (very flawed) text is superior. But what makes this text still worth reading is the sheer number of fundamental, really fascinating questions it answers. Why are there four quantum numbers, not two or five? Why is the 4s orbital sometimes lower in energy than the 3d orbital? Why can we ignore those s orbitals when counting d electrons in transition metal complexes? Any text that actually poses and answers questions such as these scores big points with me. This text, along with Anslyn and Dougherty's quantum mechanics chapter and the second half of McQuarrie and Simon, provide an utterly essential foundation for understanding some of the most basic and important concepts in physical chemistry. I cannot overstress the importance of establishing this conceptual foundation for the serious student of chemistry.Of the aforementioned triumvirate, I actually do not recommend that this text be read first, despite its brevity. On the contrary, Anslyn and Dougherty's chapter is a really outstanding, clear, and rigorous introduction to the subject. After that, I believe the matter presented in this short text by Richards and Scott will be sufficiently familiar for the reader to appreciate. Slogging through McQuarrie and Simon (buy the solutions manual!), although necessary for those seeking a mathematical treatment, should arguably be done last.

I bought this book as it was recommend by my course, and whilst helpful, there really isn't much of it that was applicable to me in my first year.After the first few chapters, other concepts such as diatomic molecules are talked about which only became useful (and still somewhat briefly) in my second year.What it does do well is really explain the concept of energy levels very well and thoroughly. Enough so that I had a perfect understanding required for my first year exams.It's a somewhat hard book to recommend if you feel confident or good about the subject; maybe a rent from the library will suffice.If however you are the kind of person who likes to go back and keep refreshing, then it is more than worth the money to really drum in the knowledge required for first year.

These Oxford Chemistry Primers entered the market just over 15 years ago. Great value for an authoritative brief introduction to topics which you don't want to spend the time or money buying massive textbooks for!

excellent book, but not for long date chemists. It helps you through your first semesters. Should use as a backup