From the fi rst edition, my aim has been to write a general chemistry text that provides a fi rm foundation in chemical concepts and principles and to instill in students an appreciation of the vital part chemistry plays in our daily life. It is the responsibility of the textbook author to assist both instructors and their students in their pursuit of this objective by presenting a broad range of topics in a logical manner. I have tried to strike a balance between theory and application and to illustrate basic principles with everyday examples whenever possible.