Written in a style and language that users without science backgrounds can understand. This best-selling introduction to the basic principles of chemistry draws on the reader"s own experiences through analogies and cartoons to learn difficult concepts. The clear, systematic, thinking approach to problem solving has also been highly praised by reviewers and users alike. Countdown sections in each chapter, consisting of five review questions keyed to previous material provide readers with a basis for material introduced in the new chapter. Study exercises, found immediately after new topics are introduced, reinforce chapter problem material. “You and Chemistry” marginal application icon relates chemistry to the real world. End-of-chapter essays entitled “Elements and Compounds” relate the applications of specific elements or compounds to the readers" life.