Coal, and What We Get from It

An accessible survey traces the geological origin and composition of coal, explains its role as an energy source and the basics of steam-engine efficiency, and outlines destructive distillation to produce coke, gas, ammonia, and coal-tar. It follows the development of coal-gas lighting and the rise of chemical industries that isolate benzene, aniline and other tar-derived compounds, recounting early dye discoveries and the manufacture of synthetic colours, as well as coal-tar applications in medicine, photography, timber preservation, and fuels. Chapters intersperse historical anecdotes, chemical explanation without formulas, and assessments of economic and practical value.