[jmbky1]

I've taken and done very well in physics and all other branches of chemistry. My undergraduate degree was not in chemistry specifically, so I never was able to take physical chemistry (mostly due to time and money).

Anyways, I will begin working on my PhD in the fall in biochemistry. I feel like I sort of cheated the system by getting into a doctoral program without having to take p-chem, especially since I have such a strong interest in it based on my love of both physics courses I took.

So based on all of this, I want to purchase a textbook with solutions manual and dedicate this summer to teaching myself physical chemistry.

I know this won't be easy, but does anyone have any advice for me? Also, any recommendations for a great textbook? So far, I'm leaning toward A Molecular Approach by McQuarrie and Simon, but does anyone have a better suggestion?

[Loyal]

The classical physics portion of P-Chem such as Thermodynamics is generally a rehash of things you may have done in physics and chemistry before.    The quantum mechanical portion of it is a whole new ball game. 

So you may be able to learn the more classical portions just fine, but after that it could be very tough to learn on your own.