C. E. Fawsitt

Modern Views on Valency

Introduction

Modern views on valency. Explore modern views on valency and electronic formulae, addressing challenges teachers face with standard textbooks. Discover recommended readings and recent advancements in chemistry and physics perspectives.

Abstract

A deputation of your Association has told me that many school teachers find it a little difficult to get any considerable discussion of valency or the electronic formulae of compounds in the ordinary textbooks of chemistry. This applies to books like those of Newth, Alexander Smith, and Partington, which have been recommended from time to time for the Leaving Certificate course. There are, however, other books dealing more in detail with valency which can be recommended, such as Sidgwick : " The Electronic Conception of Valency " (Oxford University Press) and Butler: "The Chemical Elements and Their Compounds" (Macmillan). Besides these books there has been a great deal done in recent years to advance the subject of Valency. Sugden's book "The Parachor and Valency" (Routledge) would appeal to most teachers . Also the "Discussion on the Structure of Simple Molecules " at the British Association in 1931 is published with some other interesting discussions in a volume entitled " Chemistry at the Centenary" (1931) Meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science " (Heffcr & Sons, Cambridge, 1932). In this latter volume there is a paper by Professor R. H. Fowler which shows what a change has taken place in the idea of valency as held by physicists.

Review

The article, "Modern Views on Valency," addresses a pertinent pedagogical challenge faced by school teachers in chemistry. The author notes a significant gap in conventional textbooks, such as those by Newth, Alexander Smith, and Partington, concerning comprehensive discussions on valency and the electronic formulae of compounds. This deficiency is particularly problematic for educators preparing students for examinations like the Leaving Certificate, where a deeper understanding of these fundamental concepts is essential. The abstract effectively highlights the need for more nuanced and contemporary resources to support effective teaching of chemical bonding. To mitigate this identified shortfall, the abstract provides valuable recommendations for alternative, more specialized texts. Books such as Sidgwick's "The Electronic Conception of Valency" and Butler's "The Chemical Elements and Their Compounds" are specifically endorsed for their detailed treatment of the subject. Furthermore, the abstract points to more recent academic contributions, including Sugden's "The Parachor and Valency," which is suggested to be particularly appealing to teachers. These recommendations serve as a practical guide for educators seeking to expand their knowledge base beyond the limitations of standard introductory materials. Beyond textbook recommendations, the abstract also emphasizes the dynamic evolution of valency theory, referencing significant recent advancements. Notably, it directs readers to the "Discussion on the Structure of Simple Molecules" from the 1931 British Association meeting, published in "Chemistry at the Centenary." The inclusion of Professor R. H. Fowler's paper within this volume is specifically highlighted, underscoring a profound shift in the perception of valency from a physicist's perspective. This forward-looking aspect positions the abstract not merely as a resource guide, but as a reminder that fundamental chemical concepts like valency are continually refined and re-evaluated, making it an invaluable prompt for educators to keep abreast of scientific progress.

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