This book provides a concise, yel thorough, introduction to the vast subject of heterocyclic chemistry by dealing only with those compounds containing a single heteroatom. By restricting the discussion to these, the most important classes of heterocycles, a balanced treatment is possible, allowing the student to rapidly understand the importance of heterocyclic compounds in general to mankind and at the same time stimulating an interest in the challenges this chemistry presents.
The contents of the book are carefully designed to meet the needs of undergraduate students in the 2nd year of a degree course in Chemistry or Biochemistry and are based upon the author's own lectures given to students at Bath. Although primarily an undergraduate text, the main principles that govern heterocyclic chemistry as a whole are addressed in this book, providing a sure foundation for those wishing to widen their interest in heterocyclic chemistry in later years.