Baxter
~baxterGold StarVerification
overview-of-chemistry.md

Periodic table with various chemical elements highlighted Overview of Chemistry

The Periodic Table

Periodic table with various chemical elements highlighted

Introduction

Chemistry is the scientific study of matter, its properties, composition, structure, and the changes it undergoes during chemical reactions. Chemistry is closely related to Physics and Biology, serving as a bridge between the physical sciences and life sciences.

The Periodic Table

The periodic table organizes chemical elements based on their atomic number and properties. Elements in the same group often share similar chemical behaviors.

Periodic Table Elements

Close-up of several elements in the periodic table

Organic and Inorganic Chemistry

Organic chemistry focuses on the study of carbon-containing compounds, especially those involving hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Inorganic chemistry, on the other hand, involves substances that do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds.

Physical Chemistry

Physical chemistry blends the principles of physics and chemistry to understand the physical properties of molecules, the forces that act upon them, and how they interact and react under various conditions.

Analytical Chemistry

Analytical chemistry is about identifying what and how much of a substance is present in a sample. Techniques include spectroscopy, chromatography, and titration.

Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the branch of chemistry that explores the chemical processes within and related to living organisms. This field is an intersection between chemistry and Biology.

Biochemistry and DNA

DNA double helix and associated biochemical structures

Industrial Chemistry

Industrial chemistry focuses on optimizing the use of chemicals in manufacturing and production processes. It is closely related to Applied Sciences and Engineering.

Environmental Chemistry

Environmental chemistry studies how chemicals interact with the natural world, including air, water, and soil chemistry. It often overlaps with Earth Sciences.

Role of Technology in Chemistry

Advancements in technology, like computer modeling and various types of spectroscopy, have significantly impacted research in chemistry, helping scientists make more precise observations and predictions.

Conclusion

Chemistry is a versatile science that finds applications in multiple fields. Its theories and methodologies offer invaluable insights into the nature of matter and changes it undergoes. For more topics in the realm of science, you may explore the Overview of Science or go back to the main Encyclopedia Overview.