Inorganic Substances is complementary in its approach to conventional inorganic chemistry textbooks. Written with the undergraduate in mind, it gives an introduction to descriptive inorganic chemistry, a systematic survey of the chemistry of the elements according to the Periodic Classification. In this way, the reader acquires a firm grasp of the principles which underlie which inorganic substances can be made, their preparations, structures, chemical reactions and physical properties. The book presents theory as a background to the facts of inorganic chemistry, rather than as an end in itself. It does not concentrate on structural detail or reaction mechanisms but stresses the interplay between thermodynamic and kinetic considerations in understanding stability. The ways in which the various theories of structure and bonding are related are thoroughly dealt with throughout. The approach of this book makes it a useful companion to any intermediate inorganic chemistry course. It should also be useful to other science students, especially earth and material scientists who need a good grounding in modern inorganic chemistry.

This book contains an overview of complex formation by macrocyclic ligand systems. The study of macrocyclic chemistry represents a major area of activity which impinges on a range of other areas in both chemistry and biochemistry. The field has characteristically yielded many interesting and unusual compounds. The text discusses the structures and properties of macrocyclic compounds; the synthesis of macrocycles; polyether crown and related systems; metal-ion and molecular recognition (host-guest chemistry); as well as kinetic, thermodynamic and electrochemical aspects of a range of macrocyclic systems. A discussion of the different categories of naturally occurring macrocycles is also included. Specialist and non-specialist alike will find this a useful text. Apart from serving as a convenient reference for established workers in the field, it should also prove useful to new graduate students as well as to researchers from other areas who seek a general introduction to the subject. The topics discussed also provide a suitable basis for a senior undergraduate or graduate course in macrocyclic chemistry and inorganic complexes.