Giant Molecules - 2nd Edition by Charles E Carraher Hardcover

Book Synopsis

The Second Edition of Giant Molecules presents an introductory textbook on large molecules that exhibit specific physical and biological properties related to their size, orientation, and environment, making this subject accessible to students from high school to universities.
Written by Charles Carraher, author of more than forty books on the subject, this up-to-date guide presents material in an integrated fashion, marrying fundamentals with illustrative applications. The text assumes no previous formal scientific training, and includes new and updated questions and answers, a glossary of relevant terms, bibliographies, visual aids, and related Web links in every chapter. Giant Molecules, Second Edition will appeal to individuals who have a personal or professional interest in polymers, as well as to college chemistry and materials science students who study polymers.

From the Back Cover

A primer for students and researchers, now completely revised and updated

Giant molecules are the fundamental building blocks of our entire world, providing the structural bases for our bodies (genes, proteins, nucleic acids), our food (complex carbohydrates, starches), our homes (wood, concrete), and our environments (plants, clothing, biomaterial, paper, etc.). Equal parts technical guide for the practitioner and college text, Giant Molecules, Second Edition delivers a fascinating primer on these ubiquitous materials.

The book begins with essential, conceptual basics, assuming no prior scientific knowledge whatsoever, then moves swiftly to apply these fundamentals to real-world materials. The majority of the text addresses material concepts and their various applications. A pictorial approach is employed throughout. The author uses sweeping, striking drawings, pictures, and figures to explain why particular giant molecules behave the way they do, and why some, for example, are suitable to the human genome while others are used to construct bulletproof vests. Each chapter contains a glossary, bibliography, and questions and answers for the reader's reference. Chapters include:

• Thermoplastics
• Fibers
• Rubbers (Elastomers)
• Paints, Coatings, Sealants, and Adhesives
• The Plant Kingdom
• The Animal Kingdom
• The Future of Giant Molecules

The author also includes a selection of helpful Web sites in each chapter for additional reference. Giant Molecules remains an unparalleled resource for researchers and students concerned with scientific fundamentals.

Review Quotes

"...an exemplary book...anyone with an interest in science will find this book worth perusing." (Journal of Metals Online, September 1, 2004)

"There is almost everything about molecules which form the basis of life...in this book...there are nice and descriptive figures and tables, as well as some really interesting historical background..." (Annals of Biomedical Engineering, May 2004)

"...could serve as a source guide to many general audiences..." (Polymer News)

About the Author

CHARLES E. CARRAHER Jr., PhD, is Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida, and is associate director of the Florida Center for Environmental Studies.