Stanford University Libraries

Gmelin Handbook: Why Teach?

Why teach?

  • The major treatise in inorganic chemistry.
  • Contains many compounds known before 1907 (start of Chemical Abstracts).
  • Online database allows searches back to 1817.

Teaching Points:

  • Compound oriented.
  • Each element has own main volume and several supplements.
  • Time period of literature review in each volume differs — important to check closing date of volume.
  • Compounds are arranged according to element’s system number hierarchy, and appear at latest position.
  • Organometallics covered.
  • Comprehensive formula index available.
  • Contains evaluated data including synthesis, physical properties, reactions, spectra.
  • Often contains extensive discussion of properties.
  • Contains references to original literautre.
  • Text is in German until 1980. Extensive margin notes in English provided. Online database is in English.
  • Online database can be searched by formula, names, or structure.
  • Online records are tagged with types of data field available; learn if what you want is available and ask for display of only what you want. Some compound records are huge and very expensive to display in entirety.

Available:

  • Springer-Verlag Publishers
  • Online on STN — Springer-Verlag provides password for 1 day’s use in class.
  • Contact Eric Kemperman, (212) 460-1683. Must provide syllabus.
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