The Development of Modern Chemistry (Dover Books on Chemistry)

📘 Book Details

• Author: Aaron J. Ihde

• Edition: New

• Binding: Paperback

• ISBN: 9780486642352

• Release Date: 16 May 2012

• Language: English

• Number of Pages: 851

📖 About The Book

Aaron J. Ihde’s The Development of Modern Chemistry provides an extensive and insightful exploration into the historical evolution of chemistry, from its early speculative roots in ancient Greek theory to the groundbreaking and transformative discoveries of the 20th century. This authoritative volume offers a comprehensive narrative that traces the trajectory of chemistry, examining how it developed from alchemy into the complex and influential science we know today.

Professor Ihde, a renowned scholar in the history of science, places alchemy at the forefront as a precursor to chemistry, highlighting its pivotal role in shaping the foundation of the discipline. He also explores the revolutionary discoveries in the mid-18th century concerning gases, which formed the bedrock for modern chemistry as a scientific field.

With detailed attention to the individuals who have shaped chemistry, from Joseph Black’s quantitative analysis to the contributions of John Dalton, Justus von Liebig, and Jöns Jakob Berzelius, this book presents an in-depth look at the historical, social, and political contexts in which these scientists operated. It emphasizes chemistry’s central role among the modern sciences and offers lucid explanations of critical theoretical concepts.

The Development of Modern Chemistry is more than just a historical account. It’s an engaging narrative that also presents chemistry’s relationship with the broader forces of economic, political, and social development, providing a holistic perspective of the field’s evolution. Written for students and the curious layman alike, it serves as an excellent supplementary text for high-school and college courses, making complex concepts accessible while stimulating interest in the rich history of chemistry.

Key Features:

• Thorough exploration of the historical development of chemistry

• Insight into the evolution from alchemy to modern chemistry

• Coverage of key figures such as John Dalton, Justus von Liebig, and Jöns Jakob Berzelius

• Clear and accessible explanations of complex theoretical concepts

• Contextualization of chemical discoveries within political, economic, and social history

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of science, offering an extraordinary and detailed account of the development of modern chemistry.