Classwork Series and Exercises {Chemistry – SS1}: Introduction To Chemistry

Chemistry, SS 1, Week 1

Topic: Introduction to Chemistry

Meaning of Chemistry

Chemistry is a branch of science that deals with the composition, properties and the uses of matter. It probes into the principles governing the changes that matter undergoes. Our environment is made up of matter; chemistry therefore deals with the study of our environment and explaining things that are happening in the environment.

Chemistry may be divided into three parts;

• Inorganic Chemistry: This deals with the study of matter in our environment which are non-living.
• Organic Chemistry: This deals with the study of matter found in living things both plants and animals.
• Physical Chemistry: This deals with the study of energy changes accompanying transformation of matter.

Careers in Chemistry

Many job opportunities are available for students with knowledge of chemistry. The public and private sectors of the economy which offer such opportunities are:   

• Teaching Service
• Health Service
•  Food Processing
• Petroleum and Petrochemical industries
• Manufacturing Industries
• Agriculture and Forestry

Uses of Chemistry

Chemistry has contributed greatly towards providing our basic needs and improving the quality of our life.

1. Food: Fertilizers and insecticides have helped to increase food production greatly. It has also helped in the preservation and storage of food for long periods.
2. Clothing: A wide range of clothing materials are made available because of the man-made fibres produced as a result of intensive research.
3. Military and Space Science: Chemistry contributes to the discovery of chemical substances such as explosives used by the military. It has also helped in an effort to gain more knowledge of the other planets and outer space around us.
4. Housing: The mechanical properties of building materials such as cement, concrete, steel, bricks and tiles are a result of chemical research.
5. Medicine: The healthy life that many of us enjoy is due to the variety of medicines that are available as a result of chemical research and technology.
6. Transportation: This rapid development in transportation, from carts pulled by animals to the latest aircraft was made possible by chemists producing suitable fuels and structural materials.