Every Molecule Tells a Story

This latest edition continues the celebration of molecules responsible for the experiences of everyday life such as the air we breathe, the water we drink, the chemicals that fuel our living. It presents new sections, notably the chemistry of molecules in food, including spices; vitamins; molecules with unpleasant smells (which seem to interest many people!); organic halogen compounds, substances which have an undeserved reputation. It also covers developments such as the chemistry of drugs; drugs of abuse, for example opioid painkillers. Based on the highly successful first edition, this book brushes away any preconceived notions about chemistry to demonstrate its importance.

The author introduces his molecular collection by explaining the relevance of chemistry in our everyday lives. The second edition is considerably expanded, and new areas include food chemistry, vitamins, drugs of abuse. New discoveries are reflected in existing chapters. The chemicals are frequently put in context of their human associations, so that the book goes beyond just 'the chemistry'. A celebration of the molecules of chemistry.