UPSC Chemistry Optional Syllabus PDF: Chemistry Syllabus for UPSC Mains
Chemistry is a much-popular optional subject of UPSC for all the aspirants with a science background. The UPSC Chemistry optional syllabus is so vast and inclusive that it caters to the foundation level along with its advanced levels, which makes this subject scoring if dealt with a proper strategy. The syllabus of this optional subject deals with topics under Physical, Inorganic, and Organic Chemistries at an in-depth level and demands vast conceptual knowledge from the candidates along with skills to apply it.
Understanding the UPSC Chemistry syllabus is crucial for effective preparation. The syllabus for Chemistry optional in UPSC is methodically designed to test the analytical and practical knowledge of candidates. Given the clear and structured nature of the syllabus, aspirants can plan their study schedules efficiently to cover all necessary topics comprehensively.
Check the detailed UPSC IAS Mains Syllabus here.
Overview of UPSC Chemistry Optional Syllabus 2025
The Chemistry syllabus for UPSC mains 2025 has been divided broadly into two papers. Paper 1 encompasses Physical Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry, whereas Paper 2 dwells purely on Organic Chemistry and applications of Chemistry in diverse fields. This holistic approach makes candidates who are well-equipped with all the essentials of Chemistry; hence, it is more balanced and integrated. The latest syllabus also puts much emphasis on recent developments and applications in this field, making it relevant and current.
There will be 2 papers for the syllabus of Chemistry for UPSC. Each paper of the Chemistry syllabus UPSC would comprise 250 marks, which makes it 500 marks in total. The time duration to attempt the UPSC Chemistry paper is 3 hours. Each paper would have objective answer-type questions. There is no negative marking.
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Overview of Chemistry Syllabus for UPSC 2025 |
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Sl. No. |
UPSC IAS Mains Papers |
Subject |
Marks |
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1. |
Paper VI |
Optional Subject Paper-I |
250 |
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2. |
Paper VII |
Optional Subject Paper-II |
250 |
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TOTAL |
500 |
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Time Duration |
3 hours |
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Check the detailed UPSC IAS exam pattern here.
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UPSC Chemistry Optional Syllabus for Papers 1 & 2
The UPSC Chemistry optional syllabus for both papers is highly diverse. Paper 1 contains essentially the principles of Physical and Inorganic Chemistry that demand deep understanding theories and problem-solving skills. Paper 2 of the IAS Chemistry syllabus deals vastly with Organic Chemistry and touches bases on reaction mechanisms, synthesis, and applications in bioChemistry as well as industrial processes. The Chemistry syllabus for UPSC optional enables the testing of analytical skills and conceptual clarity of the applicants.
Download Chemistry UPSC Syllabus PDF here!
UPSC Chemistry Optional Syllabus for Paper 1
The IAS Chemistry optional syllabus for Paper 1 spreads to key areas like Quantum Chemistry, Chemical Thermodynamics, and Chemical Kinetics. Topics like Atomic Structure, Chemical Bonding, and Coordination Chemistry form the very base of this paper. Of course, the principles of Surface Chemistry, Spectroscopy, and Solid State Chemistry require an extensive theoretical foundation along with practical insight.
The table below gives a detailed view of the the key topics of the Chemistry optional syllabus UPSC Paper 1:
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UPSC Chemistry Optional Syllabus for Paper 1 |
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Topic |
Sub-Topic / Details |
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Atomic Structure |
Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle |
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Schrodinger wave equation (time independent) |
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Interpretation of wave function, particle in one-dimensional box |
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Quantum numbers |
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Hydrogen atom wave functions |
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Shapes of s, p, and d orbitals |
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Chemical Bonding |
Ionic bond: Characteristics of ionic compounds, lattice energy, Born-Haber cycle |
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Covalent bond: General characteristics, polarities of bonds, dipole moments |
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Valence bond theory: Concept of resonance, resonance energy |
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Molecular orbital theory (LCAO method): Bonding H₂⁺, H₂, He₂ to Ne₂, NO, CO, HF, CN⁻ |
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Comparison of theories: Valence bond vs molecular orbital theories, bond order, bond strength, bond length |
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Solid State |
Crystal systems: Designation of crystal faces, lattice structures, unit cell |
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Bragg’s law: X-ray diffraction by crystals |
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Close packing: Radius ratio rules, calculation of limiting radius ratio values |
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Structures: NaCl, ZnS, CsCl, CaF₂ |
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Defects: Stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric defects, impurity defects, semiconductors |
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Gaseous State and Transport Phenomenon |
Equation of state for real gases: Intermolecular interactions, critical phenomena, liquefaction |
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Maxwell’s distribution of speeds: Intermolecular collisions, collisions on the wall, effusion |
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Thermal conductivity and viscosity of ideal gases |
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Liquid State |
Kelvin equation: Surface tension, surface energy, wetting, contact angle |
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Interfacial tension and capillary action |
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Thermodynamics |
Work, heat, and internal energy: First law of thermodynamics |
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Second law of thermodynamics: Entropy as a state function, entropy changes in various processes |
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Free energy functions: Thermodynamic equation of state, Maxwell relations |
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Temperature dependence: U, H, A, G, Cp, Cv, J-T effect, inversion temperature |
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Criteria for equilibrium: Relation between equilibrium constant and thermodynamic quantities |
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Nernst heat theorem: Third law of thermodynamics (introductory idea) |
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Phase Equilibria And Solutions |
Clausius-Clapeyron equation: Phase diagram for a pure substance |
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Phase equilibria in binary systems: Partially miscible liquids—upper and lower critical solution temperatures |
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Partial molar quantities: Significance and determination |
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Excess thermodynamic functions: Their determination |
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Electrochemistry |
Debye-Huckel theory: Strong electrolytes, Debye-Huckel limiting law |
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Galvanic cells, concentration cells: Electrochemical series, e.m.f. of cells, fuel cells, and batteries |
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Processes at electrodes: Double layer, charge transfer, current density, overpotential |
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Electroanalytical techniques: Amperometry, ion selective electrodes and their uses |
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Chemical Kinetics |
Rate equations: Zeroth, first, second, fractional order reactions |
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Reactions: Reverse, parallel, consecutive, chain reactions, branching chain and explosions |
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Effect of temperature and pressure on rate constant: Fast reactions (stop-flow, relaxation methods) |
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Collisions and transition state theories |
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Photochemistry |
Absorption of light: Decay of excited state by different routes |
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Photochemical reactions: Hydrogen and halogens, quantum yields |
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Surface Phenomena and Catalysis |
Adsorption: From gases and solutions on solid adsorbents, Langmuir and B.E.T. adsorption isotherms |
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Surface area determination: Characteristics and mechanisms of reactions on heterogeneous catalysts |
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Bioinorganic Chemistry |
Metal ions in biological systems: Ion transport across membranes, molecular mechanisms |
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Oxygen-uptake proteins: Cytochromes, ferredoxins |
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Coordination Chemistry |
Bonding in transition metal complexes: Valence bond theory, crystal field theory |
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Magnetism and electronic spectra: Applications of theories to complexes |
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Isomerism and nomenclature: IUPAC nomenclature, stereochemistry, 4 and 6 coordination numbers |
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Chelate effect and polynuclear complexes: Trans effect, theories of substitution reactions |
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Thermodynamic and kinetic stability: EAN rule, synthesis, structure, reactivity of metal carbonyls |
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Complexes with aromatic systems: Metal olefin complexes, alkyne complexes, cyclopentadienyl complexes |
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Oxidative addition reactions: Insertion reactions, fluxional molecules |
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Main Group Chemistry |
Boranes, borazines, phosphazenes: Cyclic phosphazenes, silicates, silicones |
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Interhalogen compounds: Sulphur—nitrogen compounds, noble gas compounds |
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General Chemistry of ‘f’ Block Element |
Lanthanides and actinides: Separation, oxidation states, magnetic and spectral properties, lanthanide contraction |
UPSC Chemistry Optional Syllabus for Paper 2
Paper 2 of the UPSC Optional Chemistry syllabus contains Organic Chemistry with diverse networks of reactions and mechanisms. Major topics include structure and reactivity of organic molecules, synthesis of organics, and biomolecules. Advanced analytical techniques, environmental Chemistry, and polymer Chemistry are also discussed in the syllabus so that the overall outlook of Organic Chemistry and its applications are covered by the syllabus.
The table below highlights the key topics of the Chemistry Optional UPSC syllabus for Paper 2:
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UPSC Chemistry Optional Syllabus for Paper 2 |
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Topic |
Sub-Topic / Details |
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Delocalised Covalent Bonding |
Aromaticity: Anti-aromaticity, annulenes, azulenes, tropolones, fulvenes, sydnones |
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Reaction Mechanisms |
General methods: Kinetic and non-kinetic study of mechanisms, isotopies, intermediate trapping, stereochemistry |
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Energy of activation: Thermodynamic control vs kinetic control |
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Reactive Intermediates |
Generation, geometry, stability: Reactions of carbonium ions, carbanions, free radicals, carbenes, benzynes, nitrenes |
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Substitution Reactions |
SN1, SN2, SNi mechanisms: Neighboring group participation, electrophilic and nucleophilic reactions of aromatic compounds |
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Elimination Reactions |
E1, E2, E1cb mechanisms: Orientation in E2 reactions (Saytzeff, Hoffmann) |
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Pyrolytic syn elimination: Acetate pyrolysis, Chugaev, Cope eliminations |
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Addition Reactions |
Electrophilic addition: C=C and CC, nucleophilic addition to C=O, CN, conjugated olefins and carbonyls |
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Reactions and Rearrangements |
Pinacol-pinacolone, Hoffmann: Beckmann, Baeyer-Villiger, Favorskii, Fries, Claisen, Cope, Stevens, Wagner rearrangements |
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Aldol condensation, Claisen condensation: Dieckmann, Perkin, Knoevenagel, Witting, Clemmensen, Wolff-Kishner reactions |
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Stobbe, benzoin, and acyloin condensations: Fischer indole synthesis, Skraup synthesis, Bischler-Napieralski |
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Pericyclic Reactions |
Classification: Electrocyclic reactions, cycloaddition reactions [2+2 and 4+2], sigmatropic shifts [1, 3; 3, 3 and 1, 5] |
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FMO approach |
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Preparation and Properties of Polymers |
Organic polymers: Polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, teflon, nylon, terylene, synthetic and natural rubber |
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Biopolymers: Structure of proteins, DNA, RNA |
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Synthetic Uses of Reagents |
OsO₄, HlO₄, CrO₃, Pb(OAc)₄, SeO₂, NBS: B₂H₆, Na-Liquid NH₃, LiAIH₄, NaBH₄, n-BuLi, MCPBA |
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Photochemistry |
Reactions of simple organic compounds: Excited and ground states, singlet and triplet states, Norrish-Type I and Type II reactions |
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Spectroscopy |
Rotational: Diatomic molecules, isotopic substitution, rotational constants |
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Vibrational: Diatomic molecules, linear triatomic molecules, specific frequencies of functional groups |
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Electronic: Singlet and triplet states, n and π transitions |
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NMR: Basic principle, chemical shift, spin-spin interaction, coupling constants |
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Mass Spectrometry: Parent peak, base peak, metastable peak, McLafferty rearrangement |
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Prepare for the exam using the UPSC IAS mains strategy here.
How to Prepare for Chemistry Optional Syllabus for UPSC?
To prepare for the UPSC optional subject Chemistry syllabus, a proper strategic approach is required:
- Understand the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with all topics and sub-topics for both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
- Make a Study Schedule: Distribute your time effectively for all the subjects but simultaneously revise on a regular basis.
- Use Standard Textbooks: Use standard texts like "Physical Chemistry" by P.W. Atkins, "Organic Chemistry" by Morrison & Boyd, and "Inorganic Chemistry" by J.D. Lee.
- Make Detailed Notes: Discuss key points, formulae and mechanisms briefly to be able to recall them easily during revisions.
- Previous Years' Papers: Solve previous years' papers to get an idea about how the paper is going to be and commonly asked questions.
- Mock Tests: Simulate the examination scenario by taking timed mock tests and critically analyze your performance.
- Coaching or Study Groups: Take coaching classes or prepare study groups if you want guided preparation and peer support.
- Conceptual Clarity: Focus on fundamental concepts rather than just rote memorizing.
- Practice Numerical Problems: Engage in regular numerical problem solving, particularly in physical Chemistry, to enhance your practice problems.
- Use Internet Resources: Take advantage of educational videos, online classes and websites to supplement your learning and present alternative perspectives.
- Revise Frequently: Set aside time regularly to revise so as not to forget but to understand material.
- Keep up with Current Trends: Carry current knowledge from Chemistry and recent developments into your study to upgrade your responses.
- Proper Study Schedule: Keep a proper balance between study and life by adequate rest, regular break, and proper diet to keep your mind active and fresh.
UPSC Chemistry Previous Year Question Papers
Analyzing previous year question papers for the UPSC Chemistry syllabus can provide valuable insights into the pattern, type of questions, and important topics. It helps assess the kind of level to which the question papers will be tough and thus prepare appropriately for questions. Practising these papers ensures familiarity with the format of the examination and increases the speed and accuracy in solving the problems.
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Chemistry Optional Previous Year Question Papers |
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Year |
Paper |
Download Link |
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2021 |
Chemistry Paper I |
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Chemistry Paper II |
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2022 |
Chemistry Paper I |
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Chemistry Paper II |
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2023 |
Chemistry Paper I |
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Chemistry Paper II |
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2024 |
Chemistry Paper I |
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Chemistry Paper II |
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Check some more UPSC IAS Previous Year’s Question Papers for other subjects here!
List of Books for the Syllabus of Chemistry Optional for UPSC
For thorough preparation, it would be really helpful to refer to well-established textbooks covering the UPSC optional Chemistry syllabus in detail. Below is the list of books for both the papers along with its authors.
Booklist for Paper 1
The list of books recommended for UPSC Mains syllabus Chemistry optional Paper 1 include:
- Physical Chemistry by P.W. Atkins: Extensively covers all topics within physical Chemistry.
- "Concise Inorganic Chemistry" by J.D. Lee: It is a standard reference on inorganic Chemistry, about periodic properties, structures, and bonding.
- "Organic Chemistry" by Morrison & Boyd: This text gives fundamental organic Chemistry principles and reaction mechanisms in a solid framework of the background information.
- "Quantum Chemistry" by Ira N. Levine: This text teaches in detail about quantum mechanics and its applications in Chemistry.
- "Chemical Kinetics and Catalysis" by Richard I. Masel: A comprehensive reference for the fundamentals of chemical kinetics and catalytic reactions.
- "Solid State Chemistry and its Applications" by Anthony R. West: Principles and applications of solid-state Chemistry.
- "Spectroscopy of Organic Compounds" by P.S. Kalsi: This textbook deals with a number of spectroscopic methods applied to organic Chemistry.
Booklist for Paper 2
The list of books recommended for UPSC Mains syllabus Chemistry optional Paper 2 include:
- "Advanced Organic Chemistry" by Francis A. Carey & Richard J. Sundberg: Advanced topics in organic Chemistry with all the details.
- "Inorganic Chemistry" by Catherine Housecroft & Alan G. Sharpe: This book provides comprehensive material on ideas and their applications in inorganic Chemistry.
- "The Elements of Physical Chemistry" by P.W. Atkins: This book is more focused on core principles and problem-solving in physical Chemistry.
- "Modern ElectroChemistry" by John O'M. Bockris & Amulya K.N. Reddy: Electrochemical principles and electrochemical applications with all the details.
- "Molecular Quantum Mechanics" by P.W. Atkins & Ronald S. Friedman: Explains quantum mechanics fundamentals as applied to molecules.
- "Organic Synthesis: The Disconnection Approach" by Stuart Warren & Paul Wyatt: Guides on planning and executing organic syntheses with a focus on disconnection approaches.
- "Industrial Chemicals" by W.L. Faith, D.B. Keyes & R.L. Clark: Covers the production and use of chemicals in industrial settings.
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Check Related UPSC Syllabus for Other Subjects |
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