Chemistry - Introduction

chemistry

Prof. J. Peña

Complutense University of Madrid

Introduction

chemistry - introduction

Essentials of Chemistry

UCM - Faculty of Education

Relevance

Aim

Perception

relevance of chemistry

Essentials of Chemistry

UCM - Faculty of Education

Chemistry is everywhere

aim of chemistry

Essentials of Chemistry

UCM - Faculty of Education

• The aim of chemistry is to understand the composition, structure, properties, and changes of matter, as well as the energy involved in these processes.
• Chemistry seeks to discover and understand matter, investigate chemical reactions, develop new materials, and predict the behavior of substances under different conditions, enabling the control and optimization of chemical processes.

Chemistry is the art of understanding the invisible, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, and unlocking the secrets that shape our world.

perception of chemistry

Essentials of Chemistry

UCM - Faculty of Education

• Chemistry is recognized for its significant contributions to improving human life, from advances in medicine, agriculture, and technology to the development of materials that make daily life easier.
• However, despite the above contributions, chemistry often suffers from a negative public image. The term "chemical" is frequently associated with harmful substances, pollution, and environmental degradation.

The perception of chemistry in society is often mixed and can be quite complex.

One primary source of energy is the combustion of petroleum derivatives and natural gas, which are mixtures of chemical compounds. Combustion is a chemical oxidation reaction. Another energy source is based on electrochemistry, where chemical energy is transformed into electricity. This is the principle behind batteries, which have made our lives easier for 200 years.

Soap and detergents are prime examples of how chemistry is applied in everyday life. Both are surfactants, substances that lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to more effectively interact with oils, dirt, and grease. The chemistry behind soaps and detergents involves the use of molecules that have a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail and a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head.

Chemistry is crucial in the development and improvement of building materials, enabling the creation of stronger, more durable, and environmentally friendly structures. Thus, chemistry enables the development of advanced building materials that enhance the safety, durability, energy efficiency, and sustainability of modern structures.

Chemistry plays a vital role in the food industry, influencing everything from the development of new food products to ensuring their safety, taste, and nutritional value. Here are some key applications of chemistry in food: food preservation, flavor and color enhancement, nutritional enhancement, food processing, food safety and quality control, genetically modified foods, texture and consistency, and fermentation.

The creation of cosmetic products relies heavily on formulation chemistry, where chemists combine various ingredients to achieve the desired texture, consistency, and performance. This includes emulsifiers, which help mix water and oil-based ingredients in creams and lotions, and thickeners, which provide body to products like shampoos and conditioners.

Chemistry provides medicines to cure diseases or alleviate their symptoms; materials for diagnosis and various biomaterials, ranging from contact lenses to replacement parts for our bodies. It also takes care of the health of our livestock and companion animals.Chemistry is fundamental to the development, production, and efficacy of drugs, playing a crucial role in modern medicine.