There is a definite distinction between chemical engineers and their nearest scientific relatives, chemists. Chemists are primarily concerned with whether a molecule can be synthesized at all and what series of steps might achieve the highest yield of final product. Chemical engineers, on the other hand, are focused on minimizing the generation of environmental pollutants, and manufacturing the product inexpensively, safely, and in sufficient quantity and purity to meet the needs of the consumers and the requirements of regulatory agencies. This description indicates the broad range of issues and areas in which chemical engineers might find themselves involved. Treating environmental pollutants, analyzing the economics of a process, and accounting for the health and safety issues of products and processes are just some of the functions undertaken by chemical engineers.