Introduction

Welcome to general chemistry.

Often called the central science, chemistry connects the physical and life sciences. It is the study of the world around you, from the air you breathe and the food you eat to the complex machinery of your own body.

Our goal in this book is different from many others. We want to teach you how to think like a chemist, not just how to memorize a list of facts. Chemistry is a skill. It is a way of looking at the world, asking questions, and solving problems. This book is designed to help you build that skill from the ground up.

How This Book is Designed

You will notice that we have a specific approach to teaching.

First, we focus on concepts before calculations. A deep understanding of the “why” is the best foundation for learning how to solve the “how much.”

Second, our worked examples follow a strict and consistent method. We always start with a symbolic plan before substituting any numbers. This is a deliberate choice. It is a powerful technique that forces you to think through a problem before reaching for your calculator. This is how scientists solve real problems.

Third, this resource is meant to be used, not just read. We have included many features to help you engage with the material directly.

How to Get the Most Out of This Resource

This textbook is a toolkit. Here are the tools and our advice on how to use them:

• Callout Boxes: When you see one of these, pay close attention. They are there to clear up common points of confusion, offer a deeper look into a topic, or highlight a critical rule you need to know.
• Interactive Diagrams: Many diagrams are not static images. Click on them. Hover over them. They are designed to help you visualize the molecular world.
• Worked Examples: Do not just read the solutions. Try the problem on your own first, then use our step by step solution to check your thinking. This is the best way to learn the process.
• Comprehensive Problem Sets: At the end of each chapter, you will find a large set of problems. This is your chance to practice and solidify your understanding. True confidence comes from doing the work.

Chemistry is challenging, but it is not magic. It is a set of logical rules and powerful ideas. If you engage with the material and practice consistently, you will succeed.

Let’s begin.