This book is about the substances and elements that we all consist of and that surround us at every turn. Based on the Periodic System of Chemical Elements of D. I. Mendeleev, the book tells about all currently known chemical elements. You will learn about their properties, the history of discoveries and the origin of names, about brilliant scientists; about how chemical elements necessary for industry are mined and how people use them. The book is addressed to middle-aged and older students, contains additional educational material for chemistry lessons in high school.