Shriver and Atkins Inorganic Chemistry, Fourth Edition

Our aim is to provide a comprehensive and contemporary introduction to the diverse and fascinating discipline of inorganic chemistry. Inorganic chemistry deals with the properties of all of the elements in the periodic table and, as such, is central to any study of chemistry. However, because its variety and diversity can sometimes be bewildering, we help the student to navigate through it by emphasising the underlying patterns and trends. Inorganic chemistry is also a rapidly evolving discipline that impinges on all aspects of modern society, as we show by describing its application to biology, the environment, and industry.

Most of the book has been rewritten for this edition and there is much completely new material. We have increased its usefulness by adding new pedagogical features and enhancing others. The first part of the book, which describes the fundamental principles from which inorganic chemistry springs, has been largely rewritten to make it more accessible to students in the early stages of their studies. The traditional descriptive chemistry of the elements in the second part has been expanded and enriched with descriptions of modern applications. The final part of the book takes the reader to the frontiers of knowledge in several areas of current research. These chapters explore specialized subjects that are important for industry, modern life, biology, and the environment. We help the reader wherever we can by noting key points and providing worked examples, self tests, and applications boxes. Each chapter is accompanied by a comprehensive collection of exercises, problems, and further reading.

We have written the book with the undergraduate chemist in mind. It provides the theoretical foundations upon which to build knowledge and understanding, which are so essential in the early stages of study. It will help to rationalize the sometimes bewildering diversity of descriptive chemistry and demonstrate the relevance of the subject to everyday life. It also takes the student to the forefront of the discipline and should therefore complement many courses taken in the later stages of study. We hope that all students will find the book accessible, comprehensive, authoritative, and up to date and that it makes the study of inorganic chemistry a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Peter Atkins and Tina Overton