Introduction -- Radioactivity. Gamma ; Spider-infused ; Waste ; Overdose ; Power broker process -- Evolutionary anomalies. Mutant ; Mutate ; Terrigenesis -- Interstellar energies. Cosmic rays ; Genetic enhancement ; Alpha aliens -- Extraterrestrial enhancement ; Symbiotes ; Rare species -- Chemical reactions. Super-soldier serum ; Toxic agent ; Pym particles ; Energy conversion ; Unstable formulas -- Synthetic life. Synthezoid ; Android ; Robot ; AI ; Techno-organic life -- Peak humans. Cutting-edge tech ; Radical science ; Cyborgs ; Mind powers ; Naturally skilled -- Extra-dimensional forces. Gods ; Abstract beings ; God-given ; Mystical ; Demonic ; Chi

The Marvel universe boasts a huge and diverse array of heroes and villains-- many of who share surprising, essential characteristics. Scott classifies key and unsung Marvel characters, revealing the fundamental properties that bind them, the unique catalysts that created them, and the chain reactions that energize them. -- adapted from back cove