This book deals with the fundamental chemistry of fully saturated and unsaturated 4-, 5- and 6-membered heterocycles. The principal focus is those compounds containing a single nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur atom and by restricting discussion to these, a balanced treatment is possible. The book introduces a selection of important heterocyclic compounds and the vital role that they play in life, medicine and industry. Conformational aspects of heterocyclic chemistry, aromatic stabilization, nomenclature, reaction mechanisms and methods of synthesis are also discussed. Ideal for the needs of undergraduate chemistry students, Tutorial Chemistry Texts is a major series consisting of short, single topic or modular texts concentrating on the fundamental areas of chemistry taught in undergraduate science courses. Each book provides a concise account of the basic principles underlying a given subject, embodying an independent-learning philosophy and including worked examples.