This text/reference describes the behavior and effects of both natural and man-made organic substances in the environment. It is the first book to explain environmental properties in terms of bonds and molecules, and the first to include toxicity and biological effects among the important properties of organic chemicals. From the characteristics of molecules, to properties of compounds, through distribution and behavior in the environment, and on to effects on living systems, this is a complete look at organic substances, not just a collection of facts. Using the most current information available, it presents not just an introduction to environmental chemistry but also an explanation of how and why environmental processes occur.

 

Basic Concepts of Environmental Chemistry opens with a detailed examination of the basic properties of organic chemicals in the environment. It then expands upon the fundamentals to describe contaminants in the environment and processes that occur in the natural environment. The text concludes with ecotoxicological and risk assessment approaches to the management of hazardous substances.

 

Readers need only a basic knowledge of chemistry to understand the concepts presented in the book. Written in clear, simple language, it is an ideal introductory text for undergraduate and graduate students in the many areas of science that intersect environmental organic chemistry.

Ch. 1. The Role and Importance of Environmental Chemistry

Ch. 2. Bonds and Molecules - Their Influence on Physical Chemical Properties in the Environment

Ch. 3. Environmental Transformation and Degradation Processes

Ch. 4. Environmental Toxicology

Ch. 5. Petroleum Hydrocarbons

Ch. 6. Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and Dioxins

Ch. 7. Synthetic Polymers - Plastics, Elastomers and Synthetic Fibers

Ch. 8. Pesticides

Ch. 9. Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)

Ch. 10. Soaps and Detergents

Ch. 11. Organometallic Compounds

Ch. 12. Photosynthesis and Respiration - Key Global Environmental Processes

Ch. 13. Chemical Evolution

Ch. 14. Chemistry of Natural Waters

Ch. 15. Water Pollution

Ch. 16. Atmospheric Chemistry and Pollution

Ch. 17. Soil Contamination

Ch. 18. Distribution of Chemicals in the Environment

Ch. 19. Genotoxicity - The Action of Environmental Chemicals on Genetic Material.

Ch. 20. Ecotoxicology - The Interaction of Chemicals with Ecosystems

Ch. 21. Risk Assessment