Exploring Chemistry

Matthew Johll's Exploring Chemistry overs the standard topics for the nonmajors course in the typical order, but each chapter unfolds in the context of a single case study that helps students connect what they are learning to real-life situations. For example, students work through the often-difficult topics of molecular structure, gas laws, and organic chemistry by learning about the development of powerful new chemotherapy drugs, new technologies for screening airline passengers, and the creation of biodegradable biopolymers. It's the same same case-driven approach that Johll uses in his acclaimed Investigating Chemistry (now in its Third Edition) but Exploring Chemistry goes beyond the other book's specific focus on examples from forensic science to use real-life stories from cooking, athletics, genetics, green chemistry, and more. Case Study Approach. A unifying case study provides the narrative throughline for each chapter, introducing chemical concepts in a relatable context. As students read about new drugs, new polymer materials, social issues, and everyday products, they learn the relevant basics of chemistry. Case studies include:Chapter 1: Exploring Our Water SupplyChapter 2: Exploring Evidence from a Crime SceneChapter 3: Exploring Historical Climate ChangeChapter 4: Investigating the Chemistry of a PoisonChapter 5: Exploring Chemotherapy DrugsChapter 6: Exploring Chemistry in the KitchenChapter 7: Exploring Antibiotics and Drug-Resistant Infections AntibioticsChapter 8: Exploring Biodegradable PolymersChapter 9: Investigating the Chemistry of Fire and ArsonChapter 10: Exploring Airport SecurityChapter 11: Exploring Green ChemistryChapter 12: Exploring Nuclear PowerChapter 13: Exploring Athletic PerformanceChapter 14: Exploring Genetically Modified FoodFocusing Questions connect the case to the chemistry in the chapter, helping students identify what to look for as they read.