An Introduction to the Modern Theory of Valency

Abstract

IN this book the author conducts his readers carefully and pleasantly through the complex maze of valency problems. Particularly valuable, in the reviewer's opinion, is the discussion of polar and non-polar compounds in Chapter 9 in terms of characteristic properties like dielectric constants, association and so forth. A very fair and reasonable balance is held between the views of the leading authorities, and thus the student is encouraged to use his analytic and critical faculties as his own knowledge progresses. So far so good. But the fact has to be faced sooner or later (and that it is not faced here and now is by no means Dr. Speakman's fault) that a real comprehension of the modern theory of valency demands mathematical ability and equipment of an order probably altogether different from that envisaged in the average physico-chemical laboratory. It is thus just worth pondering whether 'descriptive' books on the subject are wholly justified these days. If they are, the present one is an excellent example of what can be done. On the other hand, there seems a certain awareness in these pages that all is not plain sailing: maybe a mathematical appendix to help bridge the gap and point out the heights beyond might remove some heart-searchings on this score. An Introduction to the Modern Theory of Valency Dr. J. C. Speakman By. Second edition. Pp. 159. (London: Edward Arnold and Co., 1943.) 5s. 6d. net.