[orgo814]

I just wanted to get other opinions on Atkin's Physical Chemistry. I took three physical chemistry courses and was talking with a professor about how much he preferred Ball compared to Atkins. In some ways, I agree.

Maybe it was just me, or this is just how P-Chem is supposed to be taught, but Atkins seemed to put way too much emphasis on the mathematical formulation of the topics and barely touched on the theory. I also disliked how the textbook skipped a lot of math steps leaving the student confused and frustrated (for an introductory physical chem course).

What is your opinion?

[kriggy]

I always thought that physical chemistry is mostly about mathematical formulations. I didnt like it but once you understand the math, then it gets much easier. And what is math it not theory?
Anyway, I used Atkins few times and while I didnt understand the math used there that much, I cant say its bad or anything.

[Mitch]

Never read Ball's book.But, I'm a huge fan of Atkins. It just clicked for me when I relearned P-Chem with that book.