Chemistry, often called the “central science,” is an important course as it can reveal processes in real-life encounters such as cooking, cleaning, medicine and the environment. Not only does the subject help students write succinctly on technical topics, it’s also an important course for those looking to pursue a career in nursing, geology and nutrition.
Chemistry—the science which describes matter and its transformations—is a continually evolving field and the results of ongoing scholarship provide valuable classroom learnings to the millions of students who will become chemical engineers, forensic scientists, toxicologists and more.
Here, we look at how Top Hat’s always up-to-date chemistry textbook stacks up against the most recent versions available from legacy publishers.
1. General Chemistry | Top Hat
Author: Franklin Ow (East Los Angeles College)
In Top Hat’s textbook, chemistry extends beyond the page with a wealth of visuals, built-in assessment questions and interactive simulations. A question bank of 100 questions per chapter is designed to help students test their understanding of the material.
Average Price: Up to 40–60 percent more affordable
Edition: Constantly updated
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2. Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications | Pearson
Authors: Ralph H. Petrucci (California State University, San Bernardino), F. Geoffrey Herring (University of British Columbia), Jeffry D. Madura (Duquesne University) and Carey Bissonnette (University of Waterloo)
The 11th edition of Pearson’s General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications helps students who have some pre-existing chemistry knowledge embrace effective problem solving and work towards a career in chemistry. Access to online assessment program Mastering Chemistry sold separately.
Average Price: $299 (text only)
Edition: 11th edition
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3. Chemistry | Pearson
Authors: Theodore E. Brown (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign) et al.
The latest edition of this textbook addresses students’ misconceptions, encourages them to think about the real-world uses of chemistry and identifies common points of confusion. Access to online assessment program Mastering Chemistry sold separately.
Average Price: $299 (hardcover text only)
Edition: 14th edition
Always up-to-date content:
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4. Chemistry: A Molecular Approach | Pearson
Author: Nivaldo J. Tro (Santa Barbara City College)
Showcasing macroscopic pictures and images of the atoms and molecules that compose the world, Pearson’s tome also features Tro’s “Sort, Strategize, Solve and Check” approach when working through exercises. Access to Solution Manual for Chemistry: A Molecular Approach sold separately.
Average Price: $299 (text only)
Edition: 5th edition
Always up-to-date content:
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Learn more and get a preview of Top Hat’s general chemistry textbook here.
