This text is highly regarded by both students and instructors for its superior conceptual approach to physics, chemistry, astronomy, and earth sciences. Working from the premise that students learn best from what they already know, the authors use many interesting analogies and everyday examples to clarify concepts. Consistent, high-quality coverage of all topics includes critical thinking exercises, review questions, and computational problems. Illustrations by geology artist Dennis Targa enhance a unique and well-known art program by Paul Hewitt and his co-authors.