Chemistry. The word conjures up mystery—perhaps magic—smoke, fire-works, explosions, unpleasant odors. But it could evoke “smokeless burn-ing,” which would be invisible, fluorescent lights, “neon” signs, the quietcrumbling of rocks under the pressure of freezing water, the slow and quietformation of caves in limestone, and the delightful scents of perfumes orfruit aromas. There is no magic, only knowledge and understanding. Weoffer this Encyclopediaas a contribution to help readers gain knowledge andunderstanding of chemistry