Choice Review

This new edition expands on the excellent 1983 first edition by McQuarrie (ret., chemistry, Univ. of California, Davis). This is a very clear and well-organized presentation and development of the quantum chemistry of atoms and molecules. Knowledge of calculus is assumed. Other mathematical concepts and tools are developed in brief math chapters placed at the end of eight quantum chemistry chapters. Following the historical background, the book steadily develops the Schrodinger equation, postulates of quantum mechanics, and customary initial areas of particle in a box, harmonic oscillator and vibrational spectroscopy, rigid rotor and rotational spectroscopy, and the hydrogen atom. After approximation methods, the author treats atomic structure and chemical bonding, with strong emphasis on Hartree-Fock calculations. Post-Hartree-Fock methods and density functional theory conclude the book. McQuarrie's second edition is similar in scope and quality to John P. Lowe and Kirk A. Peterson's Quantum Chemistry (3rd ed., CH, Sep'06, 44-0321). McQuarrie focuses on atoms and discrete molecules, while Lowe and Peterson also consider periodic stems such as crystals. McQuarrie includes some brief biographical sketches and a generous number of examples and problems. Strongly suggested for acquisition. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals. A. Viste emeritus, Augustana College