[everydaygame]

Hi
   I just finish studying for my degree in chemistry so have a reasonable understanding of core areas but I want to read up on inorganic chemistry and in particular applications in nano science and photovoltaic cells. I am looking for a text that is technical but still accessible. Should I go for Shriver and Atkins or do people have some other suggestions.

Thanks

[sjb]

Whereabouts in the world are you?

Shriver and Atkins (assuming you mean http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shriver-Atkins-Inorganic-Chemistry-Peter/dp/0199264635 ) was used as the introductory inorganic text (well, not this edition) at my university (UK). From what I recall it didn't really have much about nanoscience or photovoltaics, but this was a few years ago.

[IITian]

1. Inorganic Chemistry by Catherine E. Housecroft, Alan G. Sharpe, Paperback: 832 pages, Publisher: Prentice Hall
This book's fresh writing style, combined with up-to-date coverage, numerous examples, worked exercises, and real-life applications, provides a critical introduction to modern inorganic chemistry. It offers superior coverage of all key areas, including descriptive chemistry, MO theory, bonding, and physical inorganic chemistry. Chapter topics are presented in logical order and include: basic concepts; nuclear properties; an introduction to molecular symmetry; bonding in polyatomic molecules; structures and energetics of metallic and ionic solids; acids, bases, and ions in aqueous solution; reduction and oxidation; non-aqueous media; and hydrogen. Four special topic chapters, chosen for their currency and interest, conclude the book. For researchers seeking the latest information in the field of inorganic chemistry.



2. Descriptive Inorganic Chemistry by Kathleen A. House, James E. House, Hardcover: 515 pages, Publisher: Brooks Cole
Provides a thorough and very readable text appropriate for a general sophomore level descriptive course in inorganic chemistry taken by chemistry, biology, and earth science students. Inorganic chemistry is an enormously broad area that encompasses the chemistry of all elements but carbon. While the subject is historically taught at the junior/senior level and has been largely devoted to more theoretical topics (such as crystal field theory) This textbook focuses on the descriptive and introductory aspects of this fascinating sub-discipline. This textbook is aimed at sophomore/junior level undergraduates taking inorganic chemistry, and could be used as a supplement by students taking general chemistry.

3. Descriptive Inorganic, Coordination, and Solid State Chemistry by Glen E. Rodgers, Hardcover: 560 pages, Publisher: Brooks Cole
This class-tested text introduces the basics of coordination, solid state, and descriptive main-group chemistry in a uniquely accessible manner, featuring a "less is better than more" approach. The approach offers instructors the opportunity to build upon and present concepts and applications that they find particularly important and fascinating. Consistent with the philosophy that less is better than more, this book does not contain traditional chapters reviewing or expanding on atomic and molecular structure and other topics previously and adequately developed in most introductory courses. As a result, the book moves directly into the presentation of topics central to inorganic chemistry. Written for students, with a conversational prose that is enjoyable and easy to understand, this book presents not only the basic theories and methods of inorganic chemistry (in three self-standing sections), but also a great deal of the history and the applications of the discipline. The author's presentation does not assume prerequisites of organic or physical chemistry.
4. Inorganic Chemistry: Principles of Structure and Reactivity (4th Edition) by James E. Huheey, Ellen A. Keiter, Richard L. Keiter, Hardcover: 964 pages, Publisher: Benjamin Cummings
This book,  designed for a two-semester class, is a complete and thorough guide to undergraduate students; it explains important subjects which are left out in other works. The chapters on bonding, solid state, and coordination are well written and have good information that can be well understood by chemistry students. The authors provide references for further reading.

5. Principles of Descriptive Inorganic Chemistry by Gary Wulfsberg, Hardcover: 461 pages, Publisher: University Science Books
This is the only text currently available organized by class of compound and by property or reaction type, not group by group or element by element, which requires students to memorize isolated facts