Zumdahl Chemistry 1996 edition - too old?

[Jyniffrec]

I picked this up for $3 at a used bookstore yesterday. I figured it was worth the gamble since it was so cheap. So is this a book I can use for high school chemistry class or should I wait for a newer version to come along?

[Sebastian (a lady)]

What I've been doing with Biology is picking up copies of the Campbell book I hope to use, just to browse through it, then upgrading as I find newer editions. (We won't be using Bio for a couple years.)

 

Aside from the chemistry content (which I can't speak to), you might want to consider what editions you can get study guides, student solution manuals or teacher's manuals for. It looks like there are a number of resources for the 6th edition (2002) and the 7th edition (2007) on Amazon (looks like you can pick up most items for $2-20).

[EKS]

Content wise, I'm sure it's fine.

[Dicentra]

If it's just called "Chemistry", then that's Zumdahl's AP Chem text. The chem content wouldn't be out of date but it probably won't be well aligned with the current AP Chem syllabus. And as of 2013-2014, AP Chem is being redesigned so it'll definitely be out of alignment then.

 

If you're planning on using it as a first chem text for your highschooler, just be aware that it is meant for AP Chem and won't be an easy go for someone who hasn't had a previous chem course.

[Jyniffrec]

It is the introductory book. Thanks for the input. I will keep an eye out for newer editions and use this one to familiarize myself with what we will be getting into for my future 10th grader (in two years).