Richter’s Lexicon

A knowledge of the literature is of fundamental importance. Richter s Lexicon must be used where a reference for a preparation is not given. The method of using this lexicon is fully described in the preface to that book. To facilitate the use of this lexicon, molecular formulae have been given in this book. 

The student, from his previous training in organic chemistry, is expected to be familiar with reference books such as Richter s Lexicon and Beilstein s Handbuch, and he should cultivate a familiarity with Chemical Abstracts as a source for the more recent work. 

The five-volume work of Stelzner forms the continuation of Richter s formula lexicon. It covers the literature up to the year 1921 and is arranged on the same plan as Richter s, but gives in addition a brief description of the individual substances, their constants and reactions, after the fashion of Beilstein. 

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