Chemistry the Central Science: A Cultural Perspective: A Cultural Perspective

Through a collection of historical and contemporary stories, this book illustrates chemistry’s profound impact on human lives. It provides both chemistry students and general readers with insights into how atomic-level interactions manifest in familiar materials. Additionally, educators may find its detailed content valuable for supplementing their courses and classroom instruction. The free to use online videos of selected experiments are tailored to complement the written procedures, vividly illustrating the laboratory experience.

Key Features:

- A readable and accessible account of the science underpinning a diverse range of naturally occurring and synthetic substances that are encountered in everyday life.
- Source of engaging material which showcases the multidisciplinary nature of chemistry.
- A text rich in molecular structures, explanatory diagrams and images to promote a thorough grasp of the chemistry presented.
- Dynamic aspect of the chemistry conveyed through a narrative combining historical perspectives and modern developments.
- Inclusion of practical resources shows how concepts can be applied in practice.

Dr Bladon completed a BSc and PhD in Chemistry at the University of Glasgow and then undertook post-doctoral research at the University of Cambridge. She developed an interest in the peptide field whilst setting up and running the peptide synthesis laboratory at the MRC Brain Metabolism Unit in Edinburgh and subsequently developed several peptide-based projects during her independent research career at the Universities of Edinburgh and Kent. During these two positions she combined research with teaching and focused on the latter. For several years she worked part-time as a sessional university lecturer in London during which time she wrote Pharmaceutical Chemistry: Therapeutic Aspects of Biomacromolecules (Wiley, 2002) and obtained a PGCE. For the past 15 years she has taught Chemistry at secondary schools, the last seven years of which she was the Head of Chemistry at Harris Westminster Sixth Form. Her knowledge and skills as a research chemist, proven record of writing material for publication and an ability to explain difficult concepts to students gives her the ideal background to write this book.