First published in 1988, this volume surveys the chemical synthesis and biological activity of the benz a]anthracenes. These compounds occur in smoke and mineral oils and a few have been shown to be potent carcinogens. This volume was the first to review, systematically and in depth, the organic synthesis of these compounds as well as their metablolism, interactions with nucleic acids and protein, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. Such studies have important implications in determining mechanism and specificity of chemically induced carcinogenesis.