[JWHooper]

Hello,

I just bought a new Chemistry textbook a week or two weeks ago (it's called Chemistry - Eighth Edition by Whitten, Davis, Peck and Stanley). Also, at the beginning of the textbook, it says:
"Chemistry - eighth edition, is intended for use in the introductory chemistry course taken by students of chemistry, physics, engineering, and related subjects. Although some background in high school science is helpful, no specific knowledge of topics in chemistry is presupposed. This book has self-contained presentations of the fundamentals of chemistry."

Here's my situation. I didn't took any chemistry courses in high school (except a short introductory one that is half semester long in freshmen year...). So, here's my question: will I be okay studying my new chemistry book? Please let me know!

[Borek]

no specific knowledge of topics in chemistry is presupposed.

I didn't took any chemistry courses in high school

will I be okay studying my new chemistry book?

You seem to don't understand the text you are reading, so any book could prove difficult...

Seriously - it is stated that you don't need any chemistry background, so as long as you have some basic math skills I would not expect any problems. At the same time it is a very individual thing, and every combination of book&student is different, so I doubt anyone will be able to answer your question. But you will learn soon if you start to read.

[audienne]

I totally agree with Borek's opinion. If you have a good math skill, you should not expect too much problem ( This statement is based on my personal experience. I did not do chemistry in high school. However, due to career change, i need to study chemistry as part of my new course)

You do however, need to study regularly since it is impossible to study chemistry one day before exam.

[Jasmine]

Hi,

What I have found helpful in the study of Chemistry is to take LOTS of prerequisite mathematics, particularly Algebra (College level Algebra is the best), precalculus, trigonometry, etc.  I think the more math courses you take, the more involved and challenging they are, that will help you the most with Chemistry!  (I also believe they have done surveys that bear this out).

You need to brush up on all your math knowledge, including Proportions, ratios, Factor-label method, etc.  I find it ludicrous that SOME high schools teach chemistry WITHOUT THE MATH AT ALL, No Stoichiometry, Moles, grams, empirical formulas, nothing!  This should all be required at the high school level. In fact, Chemistry should be required for ALL U.S. high schools for graduation eligibility.

Jasmine