Includes bibliographical references (pages 442-447) and index.

1. Introduction and historical perspective -- 2. Characterization of contaminants, environments, and health -- 3. Sources of contaminants -- 4. Dispersion of contaminants -- 5. Fate of contaminants: transformations and sinks -- 6. Effects of contaminants on human health -- 7. Effects of contaminants on environmental quality -- 8. Contamination criteria and exposure limits -- 9. Sampling and measurement of contaminants -- 10. Control of contamination. This book examines the physical, chemical, and biological processes that determine the release, behavior, fate, and effects of the multitude of chemicals discharged into the environment. Focusing largely on the potential effects on human health and welfare, it provides readers with the technical background needed to evaluate the scientific issues and develop informed judgments. Up-to-date, comprehensive, and conceptual in approach, the text provides a unique overview of chemical contaminants in the total environment.