Because of the changes occurring in the chemical sciences, a new survey of chemistry and its intellectual and economic impact was clearly needed. This report presents a current assessment of the status of chemistry and of the future opportunities in the field. This analysis contains: (1) an introductory chapter (establishing the need for the study), (2) an executive summary synthesizing the findings, outlining priority areas, and offering specific recommendations and (3) chapters concerning the following topics: control of chemical reactions (examining new processes, products, and materials); molecular complexity (containing sections on food, health, biotechnology, intellectual frontiers, and instrumentation); chemistry and national well-being (addressing needs for a better environment, continued economic competitiveness, and increased national security); manpower and education (discussing the factors that determine the effectiveness of doctoral education); and resources for basic research (assessing the resources needed if the United States is to maintain a position of international leadership in chemistry). Several of the sections are introduced by a one-page vignette that presents in nontechnical languate a case history illustrating chemistry's usefulness. Appendices contain tables on chemistry in industry and a list of almost 400 individuals who contributed suggestions and information to the report. An index is included. (ML)