ii PUBLICATIONS RECEWED

Analysis-What Analytical Chemists Do: JULIAN TYSON, Royal Society of Chemistry, London, 1988. Pages xiii + 186, f9.95.

A good clear introduction to analytical chemistry, clearly written for anyone with no prior knowledge of chemistry. The book is not designed as a textbook but rather an insight into analytical chemistry. Not only does the book cover analytical chemistry, but it links other aspects of chemistry necessary in the understanding of analysis. The basic aspects are covered and further study is assisted through references at the end of each chapter. The first chapter explains the applications of analytical chemistry in everyday life, while later chapters deal with the instrumentation commonly encountered. Final chapters deal with the problems faced in analysis.

HILARY SMWH

Ktnetk Metheds in Analytical Chemistry: D. PEREZ-BENDITO and M. SILVA, Ellis Horwood, Chichester, 1988, Pages 330. f49.50.

Reaction-rate methods of analysis have until recently suffered somewhat from the strict requirements placed on time and temperature control. The inherent nature of dynamic systems also calls for high precision and sensitivity in the measurement of instrumental parameters. Another important factor in the development of kinetic methods is knowledge of the reaction mechanism, as this determines the most suitable working conditions. As our knowledge of chemical processes expands and instrument design improves, this group of analytical teohniques becomes more important and more applicable to real samples. This book therefore is a timely addition to the literature as it fills an important gap in reporting recent (up to 1987) developments.

All relevant aspects of kinetic methods are mentioned and the appropriate mathematical background is fully covered. The analysis of both single species and mixtures is described under sections on catalysed and uncatalysed reactions. Many different methodologies are mentioned and extensive references are made to the literature. Indeed throughout the book there are exhaustive compilations of relevant determinations.

Activation and inhibition, catalytic titrations and differential reaction-rate methods are thoroughly explained in separate chapters. The section on instrumentation deals with developments in computer-aided automation. The important flow techniques (e.g., continuous-flow, stopped-flow) are also covered in this section. The concluding chapters contain useful information on factors affecting sensitivity, selectivity, accuracy and precision. The scope of applications in environmental chemistry, industrial chemistry, pharmacy erc. is also emphasized. Many important topics such as pseudo first-order kinetics are mentioned in several different chapters and in this respect the index is excellent.

The authors have achieved their aim of producing both a textbook and an up-to-date reference book which will be beneficial to all those with an interest in reaction-rate methods.

P. J. Cox