Without carbon, there is no substance! The chemical element carbon is the foundation of living matter. Although the number of organic compounds runs into the millions, there are just a few principles that allow for a universal understanding of most of these compounds and their reactions. Katherina Standhartinger, author of the bestseller "Chemistry for Dummies," introduces the reader to the astonishingly fascinating world of carbon compounds while leaving out all the details that might hinder a basic understanding. Fewer trees, more clarity in the forest!

Contents include: Electron shells, atomic structure, bonds, hydrocarbons, oxygen compounds, biomolecules, nomenclature, homologous series, reactions, mesomerism, isomerism, chirality, stereochemistry, optical activity.