Reactions : an illustrated exploration of elements, molecules, and change in the universe / Theodore Gray ; photographs by Nick Mann.

Includes index.

Chemistry is magic. Is that really magic? ; Ancient magic was mostly chemistry ; The reactions I remember from when I was but a wee lad -- Atoms, elements, molecules, reactions. What is a molecule? ; What force holds molecules together? ; What is a chemical reaction? ; Energy ; Follow the energy ; The arrow of time ; Entropy -- Fantastic reactions and where to find them. In the classroom ; In the kitchen ; In the lab ; In a factory ; On the street ; In you -- On the origin of light and color. Absorbing light ; Emitting light ; The ancient Chinese art of chemical arranging -- The boring chapter. Watching paint dry ; Watching grass grow ; Watching water boil -- The need for speed. Weathering ; Fire ; Fast fire ; Really fast fire ; The fastest reaction of all.

The book begins with a brief recap of elements and molecules and then goes on to explain important concepts that characterize a chemical reaction, including Energy, Entropy, and Time. It is then organized by type of reaction including Combustion, Photosynthesis, Respiration, Oxidation, and Fermentation. A special section dedicated to chemical cycles includes The Carbon Cycle, The Iron Cycle, and The Lime Cycle.