Introduction To Semimicro Qualitative Analysis

By C.H. Sorum and C. H. Sorum

Book Overview

A practical bridge from textbook theory to benchwork. Simple techniques, lasting practical understanding. C. H. Sorum's Introduction to Semimicro Qualitative Analysis is a semimicro laboratory manual that teaches the essentials of qualitative chemical analysis through compact, efficient procedures. Designed as a laboratory course companion, it guides readers step by step through systematic qualitative methods and inorganic analysis techniques used for the identification of ions, emphasising small-scale reactions, careful observation and tidy record-keeping. Clear diagrams and decision charts make it approachable for college chemistry students and beginner analytical chemistry learners while preserving the rigour expected of an academic chemistry reference. Often cited as Sorum qualitative analysis, the manual lays bare the logic behind tests and prompts students to interpret results rather than merely follow recipes. Its semimicro focus reduces reagent use, sharpens attention to colour changes and precipitate form, and teaches economical, safe bench habits that remain useful in contemporary practical work. Instructors value its clarity as a syllabus-ready laboratory course companion; newcomers gain a primer in methodical thinking and diagnostic skills. Rooted in twentieth century science, it stands alongside classic chemistry textbook traditions that shaped laboratory instruction for generations. Out of print for decades and now republished by Alpha Editions. Restored for today's and future generations. More than a reprint - a collector's item and a cultural treasure. Casual readers curious about the craft of chemistry and classic-literature collectors alike will find this volume both accessible and covetable: part hands-on manual, part historical snapshot, part academic chemistry reference. For the curious amateur, the student preparing for lab work, and the collector of disciplined scientific texts, Sorum's practical voice rewards slow reading and repeated consultation. Held beside modern manuals, it supplies historical context and dependable technique that enrich laboratory courses, inform academic teaching and offer clear entry points for anyone embarking on beginner analytical chemistry or a lifelong curiosity in chemical method.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9354300405
• ISBN13: 9789354300400
• Release Date: November 2020
• Publisher: Alpha Edition
• Length: 210 Pages
• Weight: 0.69 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Dealing with the Unknowns? Then, this is the book for you.

Invariably, the final semister/quarter of General Chemistry involves determining the ions contained in an unknown solution. This can be a frustrating time for a student, which is in many instances due to the lack of clearly written and understandable laboratory procedures. When I took the class, I thankfully had a savvy professor who utilized this book (the Sixth edition) as the sole laboratory procedures. As a consequence, I did well in the lab (grade was an A) and had a positive experience. As a teaching assistant in graduate school, I recalled how useful this book was and developed my lectures based on its content (the Chemistry department at that university utilized its own "home grown" book of procedures which were sadly lacking in clarity). This book contains much of the necessary background in reaction kinetics, solution phenomenon, and ionic properties for each group that a student needs to perform and understand the experiments. Two of the most important and indispensable aspects of this book are the flow charts and the questions in each chapter. The flow charts provide a clear, overall picture of the procedures and are easy to follow. I implemented flow charts similar to these in my class with much success. Many of my students copied those flow charts and gave them to classmates in other laboratory sections. The questions were VERY helpful in clarifying how separations of the ions could be successfully achieved and the importance of reaction conditions during these separations. The questions, or variations of them, also made good lab quiz questions. (Hint, hint.) I highly recommend answering the questions prior to performing the lab to give yourself a better idea of what to expect when following the procedures. With this book and good laboratory techniques, you should have no problem acing the Unknowns.