Now illustrated in full colour, this engaging book offers a non-technical account of the familiar phenomena associated with 200 molecules, on such themes as taste, fuel and soaps. Accompanying website.
`This is undoubtedly the most beautiful chemistry book ever written' New Scientist

SIMPLE SUBSTANCES: Air; Water and Ammonia; Smog, Pollution, and Acid Rain; FUELS, FATS, AND SOAPS: Natural Gas and LPG; Gasoline and Coal; Alcohol and Vinegar; Fats and Oils; Butter and Margarine; Soaps and Detergents. SYNTHETIC AND NATURAL POLYMERS: Polymers and Plastics; Rubber; Polyesters and Acrylics; Nylon; Hair, Wool, and Silk; Sugar, Starch, and Cellulose. TASTE, SMELL, AND PAIN: Sweetness; Sourness and Bitterness; Hot, Spicy, and Cool; Meatiness and Barbecues; Fruits and Foods; Flowers and Essential Oils; Animal Smells. SIGHT AND COLOR: Vision; Leaves, Carrots, and Flamingos; Flowers, Fruit, and Wine; Browns, Bruises, and Tans. THE LIGHT AND THE DARK: Pain Killers and Tranquilizers; Stimulants; Nasty Compounds; Sex.