Includes bibliographical references and index.

"What's a chemical? What is green chemistry? Are all natural chemicals good? We come into contact with chemicals every day. Some are naturally occurring -- clay, water, sugar. Others have been synthesized and are used in a variety of products ranging from roof shingles to toothpaste. Many chemical inventions have had a profound effect on food supply, medicine and many other useful items in our day-to-day lives.