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

1. It helps to get different professionals such as doctors and nurses.
2. It leads to the discovery and development of different products such as soaps and cosmetics.
3. 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.
4. The knowledge of chemistry helps to conserve and protect environment.
5. It helps in manufacturing of building materials such as cement, iron sheets, varnishes and paints.

Fields where Chemistry is Applied

1. 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.
2. Medical fields: Used in manufacturing new drugs that cures the diseases.
3. Textile industry: Knowledge of chemistry help in making clothes.
4. 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.

General importance of chemistry