Reaction kinetics is central to the study of chemistry. Kinetic studies can provide both an insight into the detailed molecular mechanisms of elementary reactions and practical information which can be used to unravel complex chemical problems such as the formation of the ozone hole. This modern, accessible text begins with an introduction to the importance and relevance of chemical kinetics, and then describes and explains the experimental and theoretical studies of elementary reactions. Modern laser and computer based techniques can now provide valuable information about the microscopic mechanisms of elementary reactions, and their importance is highlighted. The applications of kinetics to complex phenomena such as chain reactions and photochemistry are then described, emphasizing how these systems are built up of individual elementary reactions. Examples from the fields of chain reactions, atmospheric chemistry, explosions, oscillating reactions, and photochemistry are then explored in greater detail. Throughout the book, worked examples and problems allow the reader to obtain a detailed and up to date understanding of this field, and boxes are used to explain complex material or advanced topics in more detail. Many references to the original literature - often with explanatory notes - are included making this text ideal both for undergraduate students and for more advanced students seeking an entry into the field.