Introduction to Chemistry
Chemistry is the branch of science which deals with the composition, structure and properties of matter.
It can also be defined as:
Chemistry is the scientific study of matter, its properties, composition, structure, and the changes it undergoes during chemical reactions.
A person who deals with chemistry is called a Chemist.
People who studied chemistry in ancient times were known as alchemists.
Main branches of chemistry
- Inorganic Chemistry: Study of inorganic compounds, typically those without carbon-hydrogen bonds.
- Organic Chemistry: Study of carbon-containing compounds and their properties.
- Physical Chemistry: Study of the physical properties and behavior of matter and its different transformations.
- Analytical Chemistry: Techniques and methods for analyzing substances to determine their composition.
- Biochemistry: Study of chemical processes that occur in living things.
Importance of Chemistry
- It helps to get different professionals such as doctors and nurses.
- It leads to the discovery and development of different products such as soaps and cosmetics.
- Chemistry helps to ensure human well-being. Different medicines including drugs and syrups are used to treat human when they are sick. Vaccines are used to prevent people from getting different infections and diseases.
- The knowledge of chemistry helps to conserve and protect environment.
- It helps in manufacturing of building materials such as cement, iron sheets, varnishes and paints.
Fields where Chemistry is Applied
- Agriculture: Knowledge of chemistry is used in making fertilizers, pesticides, vaccines. These chemicals help to increase crop yields and protect crops and animals from pests and diseases.
- Medical fields: Used in manufacturing new drugs that cures the diseases.
- Textile industry: Knowledge of chemistry help in making clothes.
- Transport and Communication: It helps in production of fuels (petrol, kerosene and diesel), lubricants (oil and grease). Knowlege of chemistry helps in the production of wires and paper to facililtate communication.
Area | Career |
Chemical engineering | Chemical engineer |
Teaching | Chemistry teacher |
Forensic science | Forensic scientist |
Quality Control | Quality Control Chemist |
Medicine | Medical doctor/nurse |
Pharmacy | Pharmacist |
Beauty | Beautician |
Nutrition | Nutritionist |
Research | Researcher/research scientist |