Grade 7

Grade 7Introduction to Chemistry


Branches of chemistry


Chemistry is a branch of science that studies the substances used to make things. We study the properties, composition, and structure of matter, and the changes that occur during chemical reactions. Chemistry is divided into several branches, each of which focuses on different aspects of matter and its changes. Understanding these branches will help us appreciate the diverse and fascinating nature of chemistry. Below, we will explore these branches in detail.

1. Organic chemistry

Organic chemistry deals with the study of molecules containing carbon. These molecules can vary in size and complexity, from small hydrocarbons to large proteins and DNA. Carbon's ability to form four covalent bonds enables the formation of a vast range of organic compounds.

Examples of organic compounds include methane (CH4), ethanol (C2H6O) and glucose C6H12O6

Visual example: The circle represents a molecule of methane, CH4, where the central carbon atom is bonded to four hydrogen atoms.

2. Inorganic chemistry

Inorganic chemistry focuses on the properties and behavior of inorganic compounds. This includes all chemical compounds except for the numerous organic compounds (compounds containing carbon linked in chains with hydrogen). Inorganic chemistry includes metals, salts, and minerals.

Common examples of inorganic compounds are water (H2O), sodium chloride (salt, NaCl), and sulfuric acid (H2SO4.

Visual example: The rectangle shows the crystal structure of sodium chloride (NaCl), often seen as table salt.

3. Physical chemistry

Physical chemistry combines chemistry with physics. It studies how matter behaves at the molecular and atomic level and how chemical reactions occur. It also involves understanding the physical properties of molecules and how chemicals interact with each other.

Physical chemistry includes concepts such as thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum chemistry.

Visual example: The curve shows the reaction path of a chemical reaction, and shows the change in energy during the reaction.

4. Analytical chemistry

Analytical chemistry involves identifying and quantifying the components of chemicals. It is essential in many fields, including environmental testing, quality control of products, and medical diagnosis. Analytical chemistry uses a variety of instruments and methods to separate, identify, and quantify matter.

Techniques used in analytical chemistry include chromatography, spectroscopy, and titration.

Visual example: The line depicts a chromatogram, a visual representation of the chromatography process used in analytical chemistry.

5. Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the study of the chemical processes that occur within living organisms. It combines biology and chemistry to understand the molecular and cellular functions of living organisms. Biochemistry deals with the structures and functions of cellular components, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules.

An example of a biochemical process is photosynthesis, in which plants convert sunlight into food.

Visual example: The ellipse shows the double helix structure of DNA, a fundamental molecule studied in biochemistry.

Interdisciplinary branches

In addition to the main branches, chemistry has a number of interdisciplinary areas that combine concepts from different scientific disciplines:

Environmental chemistry

Environmental chemistry is the study of chemical processes that occur in the environment. It focuses on the effects of human activity on the environment, such as pollution and climate change. This branch helps us understand, control, and prevent environmental problems.

Geochemistry

Geochemistry studies the chemical composition of the Earth and its rocks and minerals. It also traces the processes that occur on the Earth's surface, such as the formation of rocks and soils and the cycling of elements.

Polymer chemistry

Polymer chemistry focuses on the synthesis and properties of polymers, which are large molecules made up of repeating subunits called monomers. Polymers are important in everyday products such as plastics, rubber, and fibers.

Visual example: The polygon shows the complex structure of a polymer compound made up of repeating units.

The role of chemistry in the real world

Chemistry is connected to various scientific disciplines and plays a vital role in our daily lives. From medicine to agriculture, chemistry contributes significantly to progress and innovations. Understanding the branches of chemistry helps us to know how diverse and essential this science is.

Chemistry is important in the following areas:

  • Medicine: Development of pharmaceuticals and medical technologies.
  • Agriculture: Manufacture of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides to increase food production.
  • Energy: Innovations in renewable energy sources and battery technology.
  • Materials science: Production of new materials such as composites and nanomaterials.

As we can see, the study of chemistry encompasses a vast area of scientific knowledge. By dividing it into branches, researchers and scientists can focus on specific areas of interest, leading to more specialized and in-depth studies. This broader approach allows us to develop a greater understanding of the world around us.


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