essay on importance of chemistry in daily life

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Chapter 1 - Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry

Importance of Chemistry in Everyday Life

• What is Matter ?
• Properties of Matter
• Measurement Uncertainty
• Laws of Chemical Combination
• Dalton's Atomic Theory
• Gram Atomic and Gram Molecular Mass
• Mole Concept
• Percentage Composition - Definition, Formula, Examples
• Stoichiometry and Stoichiometric Calculations

Chapter 2 - Structure of Atom

• Composition of an Atom
• Atomic Structure
• Developments Leading to Bohr's Model of Atom
• Bohr's Model of the Hydrogen Atom
• Quantum Mechanical Atomic Model

Chapter 3 - Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties

• Classification of Elements
• Periodic Classification of Elements
• Modern Periodic Law
• 118 Elements and Their Symbols
• Electronic Configuration in Periods and Groups
• Electron Configuration
• S Block Elements
• Periodic Table Trends

Chapter 4 - Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure

• Chemical Bonding
• Bond Parameters - Definition, Order, Angle, Length
• VSEPR Theory
• Valence Bond Theory
• Hybridization
• Molecular Orbital Theory
• Hydrogen Bonding

Chapter 5 - Thermodynamics

• Basics Concepts of Thermodynamics
• Applications of First Law of Thermodynamics
• Internal Energy as a State of System
• Enthalpy Change of a Reaction
• Enthalpies for Different Types of Reactions
• What is Spontaneity? - Definition, Types, Gibbs Energy
• Gibbs Energy Change and Equilibrium

Chapter 6 - Equilibrium

• Equilibrium in Physical Processes
• Equilibrium in Chemical Processes
• Law of Chemical Equilibrium and Equilibrium Constant
• Difference between Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Equilibria
• Applications of Equilibrium Constants
• What is the Relation between Equilibrium Constant, Reaction Quotient and Gibbs Energy?
• Factors Affecting Chemical Equilibrium
• Ionic Equilibrium
• Acids, Bases and Salts
• Ionization of Acids and Bases
• Buffer Solution
• Solubility Equilibria

Chapter 7 - Redox Reactions

• Redox Reactions
• Redox Reactions in terms of Electron Transfer
• Oxidation Number | Definition, How To Find, Examples
• Redox Reactions and Electrode Processes

Chapter 8 - Organic Chemistry – Some Basic Principles and Techniques

• Organic Chemistry - Some Basic Principles and Techniques
• What is Catenation and Tetravalency?
• Structural Representations of Organic Compounds
• Classification of Organic Compounds
• IUPAC Nomenclature of Organic Compounds
• Fundamental Concepts in Organic Reaction Mechanism
• Purification of Organic Compounds
• Qualitative Analysis of Organic Compounds
• What is Quantitative Analysis?

Chapter 9 - Hydrocarbons

• What are Hydrocarbons?
• Classification of Hydrocarbons
• Alkanes - Definition, Nomenclature, Preparation, Properties
• Alkenes - Definition, Nomenclature, Preparation, Properties
• Alkynes - Definition, Structure, Preparation, Properties
• Aromatic Compounds

Importance of Chemistry in Everyday Life: The scientific study of matter’s properties and behavior is known as chemistry . It is a natural science that studies the elements that makeup matter, as well as the compounds, made up of atoms, molecules, and ions: their composition, structure, qualities, and behavior, as well as the changes that occur when they mix with other things.

In this article, we have provided the importance of chemistry in everyday life, including the uses and applications of various compounds of chemistry and how Chemistry affects our daily life.

Table of Content

What is Chemistry?

How chemistry is important in everyday life, importance of chemistry in food, importance of chemistry in medicines, importance of chemistry in cosmetics, importance of green chemistry, importance of chemistry in soaps and detergents, importance of chemistry in textiles, importance of chemistry in building and construction, importance of chemistry in fuel, importance of chemistry in battery, importance of chemistry in agriculture, importance of chemistry in wars, articles on importance of chemistry in everyday life, cbse class 12 – chemistry in everyday life important articles.

Chemistry is a discipline that falls somewhere between physics and biology in terms of scope. It is also referred to as the “core science” since it provides a fundamental framework for understanding both basic and applied scientific disciplines. Chemistry, for example, explains aspects of plant chemistry (botany), the formation of igneous rocks (geology), how atmospheric ozone is formed and how environmental pollutants are degraded (ecology), the properties of lunar soil (cosmochemistry), how medications work (pharmacology), and how to collect DNA evidence at a crime scene (criminology) (forensics).

Chemistry is a discipline of science concerned with the study of matter, including its structure, composition, and changes that occur when it is exposed to various situations. As a result, chemistry not only investigates the qualities of matter, but also how and why it changes.

Chemistry is like our everyday lives unseen behind-the-scenes wizard, quietly influencing everything around us in a myriad of ways. It is found in the air we breathe, a mixture of gases that chemists comprehend and control for a variety of uses, including carbon dioxide for photosynthesis in plants and oxygen for human survival. Every time you prepare food, chemistry is at work, changing the taste, texture, and appearance of raw components to create delectable dishes.

Below are the importances of chemistry in various fields:

Chemicals are the fundamental components of everything. Chemical molecules make up all food, including carbs, vitamins, lipids, proteins, and fiber, which are all safe and often desirable.

Food Additives

Chemicals have an important part in the manufacturing and preservation of food. Food preservation chemicals have tremendously aided in the preservation of food for a longer duration. Cans of food additives, flavourings, and nutritional supplements can all contribute to improve the quality and quantity of meals.

Chemistry has provided the globe with vital fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides to aid in the production of healthy and nutritious crops, fruits, and vegetables. Urea, calcium superphosphates, ammonium sulphate, and sodium nitrate are all significant fertilisers.

Medicines or pharmaceuticals are chemical substances that are used to treat diseases and relieve pain. Chemistry has made significant contributions to health care. Chemistry, for example, aids in the manufacture and application of surgical materials (sutures, artificial skin, and sterile materials).

For analysis, clinical laboratory tests employ a wide range of chemical procedures and substances.

Some important drugs in chemistry-

• Analgesics are pain relievers that are used to treat a variety of ailments.
• Tranquilizers are medications that are used to treat mental illnesses. Take, for instance, tension.
• Antiseptics are used to destroy or prevent the growth of microorganisms on the skin, wounds, and cuts.
• Disinfectants- These are chemicals that destroy microorganisms but are dangerous to humans.
• Antibiotics- Antibiotics are chemical substances produced by some microorganisms that can be used to kill bacteria that cause infections.
• Antacids- These are the compounds that are used to eliminate excess acid from the stomach and increase the pH to a healthy level.

In our daily lives, we use lotions, fragrances, talcum powder, and a variety of other cosmetic goods. All of these items are developed in laboratories using chemicals for our health and skin. All cosmetic items, from babies to adults, are made up of chemical components.

As a result, chemistry is important in maintaining the pH of our skin, keeping it healthy, and removing any marks.

Green chemistry contributes to environmental protection by monitoring, protecting, and enhancing the conditions in which we live, such as air, water, and soil. Many methods and strategies have been created to ensure that all types of pollution in the environment are measured and prevented from depleting.

To make the air cleaner, many non-polluting fuels and compounds that can easily absorb contaminants from the air are being researched and tested. The replacement of CFC in refrigerators is one such example.

For interpreting health impacts, controlling emissions, and creating pollution-reduction devices, chemistry gives a complete understanding of contaminants.

Chemists test the water and soil for contamination on a regular basis and offer pollution results as well as long-term prevention for ecological balance and human health.

Soaps are sodium and potassium salts of fatty acids with greater molecular weights, such as stearic acid, palmitic acid, and oleic acid. Sodium salts of long-chain alkyl hydrogen sulphates or sodium salts of long-chain alkyl benzene sulphonic acids are commonly used as detergents.

Detergents and soaps are used for washing, cleaning, and bathing, among other things. The saponification method is used to make them in chemical companies. As a result, chemistry plays a significant role in the development of molecules, chemicals, and procedures for the production of soaps and detergents.

Wool, silk, jute, cotton, flax, glass fiber, polyester, acrylic, nylon, and other raw materials are used in the textile industry to create usable items such as clothing, bags, carpets, furniture, towels, nets, and so on. Throughout the

Raw materials go through a number of chemical procedures during which cleaning and smoothing reagents are employed to clean and smooth the fabric.

Other chemical processes including dyeing, bleaching, scouring, printing, and finishing are also involved. In addition, chemists seek to increase a product’s quality.

Chemical items such as bricks, cement, pipelines, and other building materials all play an essential part in the quality of construction. Floor and wall tiles are constructed of heat-resistant polymers that also add strength to the structure.

Ceiling and roof materials are also designed to be heat resistant and give cooling to the structure. All of the pipes and switches are composed of polymers, which are both heat and stress-resistant.

As a result, chemistry enabled the use of all of these goods for the development of structures and people’s lives.

Fuels are the sole thing that allows us to travel by land, sea, and air nowadays. Petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG, kerosene, oils, and other fuels are all obtained through sophisticated refining procedures from harsh oil found beneath the Earth’s crust.

Petrochemistry is a discipline of chemistry concerned with the study of petrochemical processes and how to use fuels in a way that is both pollution-free and long-term.

Batteries power our automobiles, electronic devices such as watches, laptops, mobile phones, and a variety of other power storage applications.

The electrochemistry concept governs the operation of batteries. Chemical energy is stored inside a battery and is transformed to electric energy through electrochemical processes.

Chemistry plays a crucial role in agriculture, contributing significantly to the field’s productivity and sustainability. It enables farmers and researchers to develop innovative solutions that address the challenges of feeding a growing global population while minimizing environmental impact. Through chemistry, we can optimize soil health by analyzing and adjusting nutrient levels, ensuring that crops receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

Pesticides and herbicides, formulated using chemical principles, help protect crops from pests and weeds, reducing crop loss. Additionally, chemistry is involved in the development of fertilizers that enhance crop yields, ensuring a more abundant and consistent food supply. Furthermore, the study of chemistry aids in developing sustainable farming practices and reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture by promoting the responsible use of chemicals. In essence, chemistry is an indispensable tool for modern agriculture, facilitating increased food production, improved resource efficiency, and environmental stewardship.

TNT, RDX, HMX, gun powders used in bullets, and other explosives used in conflicts are all chemical compounds. It was the chemistry that allowed these chemicals to be used during the war. Nuclear weapons, which have become more well-known in recent years, are also chemical chemicals.

The important articles on uses & applications of chemistry in everyday life are provided in the table below:

In the CBSE Class 12 Chemistry curriculum, the “Chemistry in Everyday Life” unit is designed to highlight the connections between chemical principles and their applications in daily life. This unit covers various topics that explain how chemistry affects our health, environment, and various industries.

Also Check: Chemistry in Everyday Life Class 12 Chemistry Notes

Summary – Importance of Chemistry in Everyday Life

Chemistry is a very important part of our daily lives, silently influencing everything around us. It’s the science that explores what things are made of and how they change under different conditions. From the food we eat, which includes understanding what makes it nutritious or how to keep it fresh longer, to the clothes we wear, the medicines that heal us, and even the beauty products we use, chemistry is involved. It helps create the materials for our homes and the fuel that powers our vehicles. Even in farming, chemistry plays a role in growing healthier crops and in making sure our environment is protected by finding ways to reduce pollution. Chemistry’s touch is everywhere, making it a core part of our lives by improving the quality, safety, and comfort of our daily experiences.

FAQs – Importance of Chemistry in Everyday Life

What is the importance of chemistry in engineering.

Chemistry plays a role in engineering in areas such as production, fuel research, and building and construction materials. When a person understands the qualities of compounds and elements, they can apply their knowledge to better understand the workings and mechanisms of things in the future.

What is the Importance of Chemistry in Society?

Everything in our environment is formed of matter. Chemistry is significant in our civilization because it affects our basic needs for food, clothing, shelter, health, energy, and clean air, water, and soil, among other things.

What is the Importance of Chemistry in Agriculture?

Chemistry has provided the globe with vital fertilisers, herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides to aid in the production of healthy and nutritious crops, fruits, and vegetables. Urea, calcium superphosphates, ammonium sulphate, and sodium nitrate are all significant fertilisers.

What is the Importance of Chemistry in Medicine?

Medicines or pharmaceuticals are chemical substances that are used to treat diseases and relieve pain. Chemistry has made significant contributions to health care. Chemistry, for example, aids in the manufacture and application of surgical materials (sutures, artificial skin, and sterile materials). For analysis, clinical laboratory tests employ a wide range of chemical procedures and substances.

What are Some Examples of Chemistry in Daily Life?

Toothpaste, lotions, facewash, the food we eat, pharmaceuticals, batteries in watches, mobile phones, cars, laptops, and other electronic devices, and fuel in our vehicles are all instances of chemistry in our daily lives.

Why is Chemistry Important in Food?

Chemicals are the fundamental components of everything. Chemical molecules make up all food, including carbs, vitamins, lipids, proteins, and fiber, which are all safe and often desirable. Chemicals have an important part in the manufacturing and preservation of food. Food preservation chemicals have tremendously aided in the preservation of food for a longer duration. Cans of food additives, flavorings, and nutritional supplements can all contribute to improving  the quality and quantity of meals.

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Chemistry In Everyday Life

If you are studying chemistry, then you must have wondered about the importance of chemistry in everyday life . Chemistry is the branch of science which deals with the investigation of the properties and changes of matter. From the way how our body exchanges oxygen to how our universe was created, all have a part of chemistry associated with it.

Download Complete Chapter Notes of Chemistry in Everyday Life Download Now

Importance of Chemistry in Everyday Life

• Analgesics Types
• Antibiotics Classification
• Milk of Magnesia
• Slaked Lime

Chemicals of Food in Everyday Life

The following chemicals are widely used in food materials.

• Colouring agents
• Artificial preservatives
• Flow stabilisers
• Binding substance
• Artificial sweetness
• Antioxidants

These substances do not have nutritional value except vitamins.

Also Read:  Important Questions on Chemistry in Everyday Life

Artificial Preservatives: They prevent spoilage of food by stopping the growth of microorganisms. For example, sodium benzoate and sodium meta bisulphate.

Artificial Sweetness: They do not impart any calories to the body since these substances are excreted through urine. For example,

• Aspartame: It is used in cool drinks and ice creams.
• Alitame: It is 2000 times sweeter than sucrose.

Antioxidants: They prevent the spoilage of food by preventing the oxidation of food. For example,

• Butylated hydroxyl tolerance (BHT)
• Butylated hydroxyl anisole (BHA)

Dyes are coloured organic compounds that are used to impart colour to various substrates, including paper, leather, fur, hair, drugs and cosmetics. Dyes are classified into natural dyes and s ynthetic dyes.

Chemistry of Cleansing Agents in  Everyday Life

What are soap and detergents.

Soaps are sodium or potassium salt of higher carboxylic acid such as stearic acid, palmitic acid and oleic acid, whereas detergents contain a long chain of alkyl groups. Detergents, in comparison to soaps , can also function in hard water.

Saponification: Alkaline hydrolysis of triesters of glycerol to form soap is known as saponification. Soap does not function in hard water since they precipitate in it.

How do soaps work?

Soaps are generally sodium or potassium salts of long-chain fatty acids. Soap molecules have a hydrophobic as well as a hydrophilic part. While the hydrophilic part clings to the water when washing, the hydrophobic end clings to the dirt particles. Thus, when we pour away the water, the dirt particles wash away with the soap molecules.

Also Read:  Cleansing Action of Soaps and Detergents

Types of Soaps

• Toilet Soaps: Potassium soaps are softer than sodium soaps.
• Floating Soaps: They can be prepared by beating soap bubbles.
• Transparent Soaps: They contain soap dissolved in excess of alcohol, and it is evaporated.
• Medicated Soaps: They contain soaps by adding little amounts of Dettol, Savlon, etc.
• Laundry Soaps: They mainly contain sodium rosinate and borax.

Types of Detergents

Anionic Detergent: In this type, anions act as detergents. For example, sodium lauryl sulphate

Cationic Detergent: In this type, cations act as detergents. For example, cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide.

Non-ionic Detergent: They are neutral. The whole molecule acts as a detergent. For example, polyethylene glycol stearate.

Chemistry of Cosmetics in Everyday Life

Cosmetics contain the following categories of chemicals:

• Emulsifiers: They increase the stability of the emulsion . For example, potassium cetyl sulfate.
• Preservatives: They are added to cosmetics to increase their shelf life. For example, benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid.
• Thickeners: They give an appealing consistency. For example, cetyl alcohol and stearic acid.
• Emollients: They soften the skin by preventing water loss. For example, glycerine and zinc oxide .
• Glimmer and Shiners:  For example, mica, bismuth oxychloride.

Other Examples of Chemistry in Everyday Life

Let us now discuss some common examples of chemistry in everyday life which most of us never knew about.

The Expiration Date on Bottled Drinking Water

Have you ever wondered why there is an expiration date on a bottle of drinking water? After all, it is just water, isn’t it? Well, most of us haven’t even noticed that there is, in fact, an expiration date on the bottle. The idea behind instilling an expiration on bottled drinking water is to standardise its packaging quality.

What the actual expiration date signifies is if the expiration date is up, the taste of the water will be different as there is a chance that the chemicals in the packaging material may ruin the quality of the water.

Elements in the Human Body

We all know that our body is about 60% water, but then what composes the rest of it? Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen and Oxygen. These elements compose 96% of the human body. Whereas the rest 4% is composed of about 60 elements. Some of these elements include calcium, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur.

Sunblock and Sunscreen

There are two kinds of rays from the sun which are particularly bad for us, UV-A and UV-B. A sunscreen’s action, as the name suggests, functions as a screen and offers protection from sunburn which is caused by UV-B. Whereas, a sunblock has more of reflective nature and blocks both UV-A and UV-B radiations.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which artificial sweetener is used in cool drinks and ice creams, give an example of an anionic detergent., which chemical is added to increase the shelf life of cosmetics, give an example of cationic detergent., which rays do sunscreens block.

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Chemistry Is Everywhere

Everything you hear, see, smell, taste, and touch involves chemistry and chemicals (matter). And hearing, seeing, tasting, and touching all involve intricate series of chemical reactions and interactions in your body. With such an enormous range of topics, it is essential to know about chemistry at some level to understand the world around us.

In more formal terms chemistry is the study of matter and the changes it can undergo. Chemists sometimes refer to matter as ‘stuff’, and indeed so it is. Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space. Which is to say, anything you can touch or hold. Common usage might have us believe that ‘chemicals’ are just those substances in laboratories or something that is not a natural substance. Far from it, chemists believe that everything is made of chemicals.

Although there are countless types of matter all around us, this complexity is composed of various combinations of some 100 chemical elements. The names of some of these elements will be familiar to almost everyone. Elements such as hydrogen, chlorine, silver, and copper are part of our everyday knowledge. Far fewer people have heard of selenium or rubidium or hassium.

Nevertheless, all matter is composed of various combinations of these basic elements. The wonder of chemistry is that when these basic particles are combined, they make something new and unique. Consider the element sodium. It is a soft, silvery metal. It reacts violently with water, giving off hydrogen gas and enough heat to make the hydrogen explode. Nasty ‘stuff’. Also consider chlorine, a green gas when at room temperature. It is very caustic and choking, and is nasty enough that it was used as a horrible chemical gas weapon in the last century. So what kind of horrible mess is produced when sodium and chlorine are combined? Nothing more than sodium chloride, common table salt. Table salt does not explode in water or choke us; rather, it is a common additive for foods we eat everyday.

And so it is with chemistry, understanding the basic properties of matter and learning how to predict and explain how they change when they react to form new substances is what chemistry and chemists are all about.

Chemistry is not limited to beakers and laboratories. It is all around us, and the better we know chemistry, the better we know our world.

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Chemistry for Everyday Life: Science Behind Daily Experiences

Chemistry is the science that studies the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter. It plays a very important role in our daily life, but often we may not notice it right away. Let’s explore chemistry for everyday life, here in detail…

Chemistry is often seen as an abstract and complex science reserved for laboratories and academic textbooks.

But in reality, chemistry is all around us, shaping and influencing our daily lives in countless ways.

Here, we explore the fascinating world of everyday chemistry and learn how chemical reactions, compounds, and principles are an integral part of our routines, from the moment we wake up in the morning to the moment we go to bed. 

Significance of Chemistry in Everyday Life

Chemistry is everywhere, Chemistry is ubiquitous, present in almost everything we encounter and use every day. It’s in the food we eat, the air we breathe, the products we use, and the medicines that keep us healthy.

Chemistry is also the basis of cooking, from browning bread in the toaster to caramelizing sugar, chemical reactions transform raw ingredients into delicious meals for us to enjoy.

Cleaning products, detergents, and disinfectants are carefully developed using chemical principles to remove dirt and maintain hygiene in homes and workplaces.

Chemistry supports drug development and ensures the safety and effectiveness of medicines that treat disease and improve our well-being.

Chemistry powers vehicles and devices and drives technological advances in areas such as battery technology and alternative energy sources.

Environmental chemistry studies how human activities affect the environment and helps understand and reduce pollution, climate change, and resource management.

Chemistry always brings innovations that make our lives easier, safer, and more comfortable. It’s the science behind countless everyday solutions and products.

At its core, chemistry is more than just a science. It is a fundamental part of our daily life and shapes our quality of life, health, and the world around us.

Understanding its importance will help you make informed decisions and understand the science that affects us every day.

Importance of chemistry in everyday life

Chemistry is often hailed as the heart of science, and for good reason. Its importance is evident in countless ways, from the food we eat to the air we breathe, to the products we use and the medicines that keep us healthy.

One of the most familiar and interesting aspects of chemistry’s role in everyday life is cooking and food preparation. Toasting sliced ​​bread causes the Maillard reaction. This is a complex chemical process that gives bread its golden color and unique flavor.

Boiling water for your morning coffee or tea involves a change in the physical state of the water, changing from a liquid to a gas. These are just a few examples of how chemistry transforms raw ingredients into flavorful, nutritious meals that we enjoy.

Chemistry is your silent ally in the fight against dirt and germs. Cleaning products, detergents, and disinfectants are carefully formulated based on chemical principles to remove dirt, break down dirt, and maintain hygiene in homes and workplaces. Surfactants, enzymes, and antimicrobials work together as a chemical orchestra to keep our environment clean and healthy.

Every time you use shampoo, soap, or toothpaste, you can benefit from the chemistry behind these products. Formulators use chemistry to create products that emulsify, lather, cleanse, and deliver essential ingredients to your skin and hair.

Understanding the chemistry of personal care products can help you make informed decisions about the products you use and their potential effects on your health.

Chemistry is the savior in the medical world. This supports drug development and ensures that medicines are not only effective but also safe for human consumption. Chemistry guides drug development, from molecular structure to mechanism of action. 

Chemistry powers our daily commute and technological equipment. Whether you drive a car, take a train, or fly on a plane, you keep moving through the combustion of fossil fuels and chemical reactions in the engine.

With the transition to cleaner energy sources, chemistry is also playing a central role in developing batteries and alternative fuels and driving innovations in transportation and energy production.

Chemistry is not just for our personal convenience. It is also closely related to the health of our planet. Environmental chemistry studies how human activities affect the environment, from greenhouse gas emissions to air and water pollution.

Importance of Chemistry in Daily Life

Chemistry for Everyday Life

Chemistry is all around us whether we are aware of it or not. Chemistry shapes our daily experiences in countless ways. Here are some points to explore the world of chemistry and discover how it influences everything we do.

Morning routine: Chemistry of personal care products

When you wander into the bathroom to start your day, you’ve already encountered the chemistry between you and your partner. Toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and even the water you use contain chemicals. Learn how surfactants in soap molecules break down fat and how fluoride in toothpaste can help prevent cavities.

Cooking: Kitchen Chemistry

Breakfast is cooked on the stove and the chemistry is on point. Discover the Maillard reaction that causes the caramelization of sugar that gives your toast a golden brown surface and makes your morning coffee so delicious. Chemistry not only makes food taste better but also ensures food safety.

Medicine and Health: The Chemistry of Happiness

When you take medicine or vitamins, you rely on chemistry for your health. Learn how chemists develop drugs that target specific diseases and how chemical reactions in the body sustain life and health.

Environmental chemistry: the air we breathe

When you go outside, think about the chemistry of the air you breathe. Find out how pollutants are produced, the chemical reactions behind air quality, and what you can do to reduce your environmental impact.

Latest technology: Chemistry inside the device

Chemistry plays an important role in an increasingly technology-driven world. Learn about battery chemistry, from lithium-ion batteries in smartphones to lead-acid batteries in cars. Chemistry also enables the development of advanced materials and innovations to power devices.

Interesting Chemistry Facts: Surprising Trivia

Did you know that bananas are naturally radioactive? Or maybe the famous “elephant toothpaste” experiment is a dramatic demonstration of a chemical reaction? Discover fascinating and unexpected chemistry facts that will amaze you.

Sustainability and Green Chemistry: Building a Better Future

Why not immerse yourself in the world of green chemistry with the spirit of caring for the earth? Learn how scientists are developing sustainable solutions, from biodegradable plastics to renewable energy sources, all based on chemistry.

Chemistry is vibrant and essential to our daily life. From the products we use to the food we eat and the air we breathe, chemistry shapes our world in both visible and invisible ways.

Examples of chemistry in everyday life

Chemistry is all around us and influences many aspects of our daily lives. Below is a list of examples of chemistry in everyday life.

Water purification: Filtration, coagulation, and disinfection chemical reactions are used to make tap water potable.

Cooking: Chemical reactions such as caramelization, Maillard reactions, and fermentation are the key to creating delicious dishes.

Baking: The chemical reaction of leavening agents such as baking powder and yeast causes the dough to rise.

Breathing: The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs takes place through chemical reactions.

Medicine: Medicines are developed through chemical synthesis to treat various diseases.

Cleaning: Cleaning products and soaps contain surfactants that help remove stains through chemical reactions.

Electronics: Chemistry is very important in manufacturing devices semiconductors, circuits, and batteries.

Plastics: The synthesis of plastics from petrochemicals is an important application of chemistry.

Photography: An image is captured by a chemical reaction between film and photographic paper.

Cosmetics: Chemistry is used in formulating cosmetics, perfumes, and skin care products.

Food Preservation: To ensure food safety, chemistry helps with canning, pasteurization, and refrigeration.

Fireworks: Colorful explosions are caused by controlled chemical reactions.

Automobiles: Fuel combustion, engine lubricants, and materials science are all based on chemistry.

Textiles: Chemical processes are used to dye and finish fabrics and produce fibers. Environmental

Chemistry: Understanding the chemistry of pollutants and natural processes helps protect the environment.

Acid-base chemistry: The interaction of antacids with stomach acid illustrates this concept.

Charging your battery: A chemical reaction powers your phone or laptop.

Fermentation: The process of making bread, beer, wine, and yogurt requires chemistry.

Adhesives: Chemical bonding agents are used in everything from adhesives to tape.

Insect repellents: Chemistry helps create compounds that repel pests.

Sunscreen: UV-blocking compounds protect your skin from harmful rays.

Perfume: The scent of perfumes and colognes is caused by chemistry.

Petroleum products: Gasoline, diesel, and plastics all come from crude chemicals.

Candle Burning: Wax burning and flame color are determined chemically.

Detergents: Chemicals remove stains, preserve color, and soften fibers.

Vitamins and Supplements: The chemistry of nutrition plays a role in our health.

Fertilizers: Chemical compounds that increase plant growth and agricultural productivity.

Art Conservation: Chemistry is used to preserve and restore works of art.

Metal Rust: Understanding chemical reactions can help prevent corrosion.

Natural gas and propane: Combustion chemicals are used for heating and cooking.

Examples of green chemistry in everyday life

Green chemistry is put into practice in everyday life by prioritizing sustainability and environmental friendliness.

Bio-based plastics made from renewable resources such as cornstarch are replacing traditional plastics. Eco-friendly detergents use natural ingredients and have minimal impact on the environment.

Renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and wind turbines are developed using sustainable materials. Catalytic converters in vehicles reduce air pollution by converting harmful emissions.

Organic farming minimizes the use of synthetic chemicals in agriculture. Water treatment methods use green chemistry to provide clean drinking water.

Biofuels made from algae and waste reduce dependence on fossil fuels. These everyday examples illustrate the role of green chemistry in reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability.

Examples of physical chemistry in everyday life

Physical chemistry, a branch of chemistry, plays an important role in our daily lives, often behind the scenes. When we cook, physical chemistry governs heat transfer, phase changes, and reaction kinetics.

The batteries in our devices are based on electrochemistry and thermodynamics. Combustion of gasoline in a vehicle is a complex physicochemical process.

Understanding physicochemical principles helps preserve food, from refrigeration to canning. It is very important in drug development as it ensures drug stability and release.

Weather forecasts influence our daily plans according to thermodynamics and gas laws. The behavior of materials such as polymers and metals depends on their physical chemistry and influences how technologies and products are used.

Examples of analytical chemistry in everyday life

Analytical chemistry is ubiquitous in everyday life. Home pregnancy tests use chemical reactions to provide accurate results.

Food labels rely on analytical techniques to ensure safety and quality. Environmental monitoring measures pollutants in the air and water.

Pharmaceutical quality control ensures the effectiveness and safety of medicines. Analytical chemistry touches on countless aspects of our well-being.

Examples of environmental chemistry in everyday life

Environmental chemistry has a major impact on our daily lives by studying the complex interactions between chemicals and the environment. Monitoring air quality is important in urban areas and helps protect your respiratory health.

Water treatment plants use environmental chemicals to purify drinking water. Soil analysis ensures productive agriculture while minimizing the risk of contamination. Understanding the chemistry of pollutants can aid environmental cleanup efforts.

Furthermore, research on greenhouse gases and climate change highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices. Environmental chemistry guides policy decisions and conservation efforts, ultimately protecting Earth’s ecosystems and our well-being. This is a key area for addressing today’s pressing environmental issues.

Examples of organic chemistry in everyday life

Organic chemistry is a branch of chemistry that deals with compounds that are primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen and often include oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and other elements.

It is a basic discipline that affects almost every aspect of our daily life. Here we will introduce many examples of organic chemistry in everyday life.

1. Diet and nutrition

Organic chemistry plays an important role in the composition and preparation of the foods we eat. Carbohydrates, proteins, lipids (fats), vitamins, and amino acids are all organic compounds. The Maillard reaction causes toasted bread and meat to burn and is a classic example of organic chemistry in cooking.

2. Medicine and Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceutical development is deeply rooted in organic chemistry. Organic chemists synthesize and analyze compounds to develop drugs to treat a variety of diseases, from painkillers such as aspirin to antibiotics and cancer drugs.

3. Petrochemicals and fuels

Crude oil, a mixture of hydrocarbons, is refined to produce gasoline, diesel, and other fuels. The process of fractional distillation and decomposition is based on the principles of organic chemistry. Synthetic and biofuels are also based on organic chemistry.

4. Plastics and polymers

Plastics are ubiquitous in modern life and are made from organic compounds. Polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are used in everything from packaging to clothing to medical devices.

5. Cleaning supplies

Detergents, soaps, and cleaning products contain organic compounds called surfactants. These molecules have hydrophilic and hydrophobic components and can remove oil and dirt from surfaces.

6. Agriculture and pesticides

Organic chemistry is very important in the development of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers used in agriculture to increase crop yields and protect crops from pests and diseases.

7. Perfumes and Fragrances

Fragrances are mixtures of organic compounds that give products such as perfumes, colognes, and scented lotions their distinctive scents. Organic chemistry helps isolate and synthesize these scent molecules.

8. Cleaning solvent

Organic solvents such as acetone and ethanol are used for dissolving and cleaning purposes in a variety of industries including painting, printing, and pharmaceuticals.

9. Clothing and textiles

Organic chemicals are used in dyeing and finishing processes in the textile industry. Organic chemistry contributes to color retention, stain resistance, and fabric softness.

10. Glue and glue

Many adhesives, such as instant adhesives (cyanoacrylates) and epoxies, form strong bonds between materials based on principles of organic chemistry.

11. Abundant substances that exist in everyday life

Everyday substances such as sugar (sucrose), salt (sodium chloride), and ethanol are organic compounds. Sugar and salt are used in cooking and food preservation, and ethanol is found in alcoholic beverages and is used as a solvent, fuel additive, and disinfectant.

12. Personal care products

Organic chemistry is very important in the formulation of cosmetics, shampoos, conditioners, and skin care products. The organic compounds in these products moisturize, cleanse, and protect your skin and hair.

13. Synthetic fibers

Synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and spandex are made from organic compounds. These fibers are used in clothing, upholstered furniture, and various textiles.

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14. Biochemistry and Genetics

Organic chemistry is the basis for the study of biomolecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins, which are central to the genetics and function of living organisms.

15. Environmental Chemistry

The study of organic pollutants in soil, air, and water is important for understanding environmental degradation and developing remediation strategies.

16. Art preservation

Organic chemistry techniques are used to analyze and restore works of art to preserve cultural heritage.

Application/Uses of Chemistry in Everyday Life

Below is a list of applications and uses of chemistry in everyday life.

Cooking : Chemistry is very important in food preparation, which includes processes such as baking, grilling, and fermentation.

Cleaning : Chemicals are used to produce effective cleaning and disinfecting agents to maintain cleanliness.

Medicine : Chemistry is very important in medicine and ensures the safety and effectiveness of medicines.

Personal Care : Chemistry is involved in the formulation of cosmetics, soaps, shampoos, and skin care products.

Energy production : Chemistry is involved in power generation, including battery technology.

Transportation : From internal combustion engines to electric motors, chemistry powers vehicles.

Environmental Management : Chemistry helps control environmental pollution and understand its impact on the environment.

Materials Science : Chemistry contributes to the development of materials for a variety of applications, from clothing to architecture.

Agriculture : Chemistry plays a role in fertilizers, pesticides, and crop production.

Water Treatment : Chemicals are used to purify and treat water so that it is safe for consumption.

Textiles : Chemistry helps dye, refine, and create new textile materials.

Photography : Film photography and digital photography use chemical processes.

Consumer Goods : Chemistry is essential to the production of household products, from paints to adhesives.

Food Preservation : Chemistry is involved in food packaging and preservation.

Education : Chemistry is taught in schools to promote scientific understanding.

Forensic Science : Chemistry helps solve crimes by analyzing evidence.

Art Conservation : Chemistry is used to preserve and restore works of art and historical artifacts.

Manufacturing : Chemistry is an integral part of various manufacturing processes, including electronics and chemicals.

Cosmetics and Perfume : Chemistry creates the scent, color, and texture of beauty products.

Environmental Monitoring : Chemistry is used to analyze air and water quality and monitor pollution levels.

Renewable energy : Chemistry plays a role in solar panels and biofuels as a sustainable energy source.

Pharmacology : Chemistry is important in the discovery and development of drugs to treat various diseases.

Mitigating climate change : Chemistry contributes to carbon capture and renewable energy technologies.

Quality Control : Chemistry ensures the quality and safety of products such as food and medicine.

Innovation : Chemistry drives scientific innovation and technological progress across industries.

These applications highlight the wide-ranging role of chemistry in improving the quality of our daily lives and contributing to advances in science and technology.

Short Notes of Chemistry in Daily Life

Chemistry in Everyday Life includes the myriad ways in which chemical principles and reactions shape our daily lives and experiences. Chemistry plays a fundamental role from the moment you wake up in the morning to the moment you fall asleep.

In the kitchen, chemistry controls the transformation of raw materials into delicious meals through processes such as caramelization and the Maillard reaction. Detergents rely on chemical formulas to remove dirt and maintain the cleanliness of your home.

Personal care products, from shampoo to toothpaste, use chemical compounds to cleanse and protect our bodies. The pharmaceutical industry relies on chemistry to ensure the safety and health benefits of medicines.

Our means of transportation are also based on chemistry, including combustion engines and batteries that use electrochemical reactions. Environmental chemistry helps us understand and address pollution and climate change. Chemistry drives innovation from smartphones to medical devices and contributes to sustainable practices and resource management.

Basically, chemistry is not limited to the laboratory. It is a dynamic and essential part of our daily lives, shaping the world in which we live, work, and play. Understanding its role allows us to make informed decisions, evaluate the science around us, and harness its power to improve our daily lives.

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Essay on Chemistry Importance In Daily Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on Chemistry Importance In Daily Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Chemistry Importance In Daily Life

What is chemistry.

Chemistry is like a secret recipe that makes everything around us. It is the study of matter, which means anything that takes up space and has weight. From the air we breathe to the food we eat, chemistry is a big part of our everyday lives.

Chemistry in Cooking

When we cook, we use chemistry. Mixing ingredients causes reactions that make our food taste good. For example, baking a cake changes liquid batter into a fluffy solid because of heat causing a chemical change.

Medicine and Health

Chemistry keeps us healthy. Doctors use medicines to fight sickness, and these medicines are made using chemistry. Even our bodies use chemistry to turn food into energy, which keeps us going every day.

Cleaning Our Homes

Cleaning products are full of chemicals that help us get rid of dirt and germs. Soaps and detergents break down grease and stains, making our clothes and homes clean thanks to chemistry.

Environment and Recycling

Chemistry helps us protect the environment. It helps us understand pollution and create ways to recycle materials. This way, we use less of Earth’s resources and take better care of our planet.

250 Words Essay on Chemistry Importance In Daily Life

Chemistry is like a secret recipe that explains everything around us. It is the science that tells us what things are made of and how they work together. Every time we cook, clean, or even breathe, we are part of a big chemistry experiment.

When we cook food, chemistry is at play. For example, when bread rises, it’s because of a chemical reaction. Heat changes the food, making it taste different and easier to digest. Without chemistry, we wouldn’t have bread, cheese, or even yummy chocolate.

Cleaning products are full of chemicals. Soap helps wash away dirt because it can stick to both water and grease. It’s like a magnet that pulls the dirt off our clothes and dishes. Chemistry helps us keep our homes and ourselves clean and healthy.

Medicines and Health

Medicines are chemicals that help our bodies fight sickness. When we are hurt or ill, the medicine makes the pain less or helps us get better. Chemistry is behind the vitamins we take to stay strong and the vaccines that protect us from diseases.

Every Breath We Take

Every time we take a breath, we are living chemistry. Air is a mix of gases, and breathing is a chemical process that gives our body the oxygen it needs. Plants use chemistry to turn sunlight into food, which is a process called photosynthesis. This is how plants help make the air clean for us to breathe.

In short, chemistry is part of everything we do. From the moment we wake up until we go to sleep, it makes our lives easier, safer, and more fun.

500 Words Essay on Chemistry Importance In Daily Life

Chemistry is like a secret language of everything we see, touch, and feel. It’s a part of science that tells us what stuff is made of and how different things work together. Imagine being a detective, but instead of solving mysteries, you’re figuring out the secrets of the world around you. That’s what chemists do. They study substances and how they change when they mix.

Chemistry in the Kitchen

Every day, we use chemistry when we cook. Have you ever baked a cake? The ingredients like flour, sugar, and eggs are mixed and heated to make something delicious. This is because of chemical reactions, which are like tiny events where the ingredients change and become a cake. When you cook eggs, they change from liquid to solid, and that’s chemistry at work too!

Cleaning Made Easy

When we clean, we’re using chemistry to help us. Soaps and detergents are made from chemicals that can grab onto dirt and wash it away with water. Even when you brush your teeth, the toothpaste is a kind of chemical that cleans and protects your teeth from germs.

Chemistry is super important for keeping us healthy. Medicines are chemicals that can fix or prevent health problems. For example, if you have a headache, you might take a painkiller. This medicine is made from chemicals that stop the pain signals in your body. Vaccines, which protect us from diseases, are also made thanks to chemistry.

Breathing and Living

Did you know that even breathing is a chemical process? When we breathe in, we take in oxygen, and when we breathe out, we release carbon dioxide. Plants do the opposite; they take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen. This exchange is all because of chemical reactions that are essential for life on our planet.

Clothes and Materials

The clothes we wear are often made from materials like cotton, nylon, or polyester. These materials are created through chemical processes. For example, nylon is made in a factory where chemicals are combined to make this strong, stretchy fabric. Even the colors of our clothes come from dyes, which are chemicals that add colors to fabrics.

Technology and Gadgets

Our phones, computers, and TVs all work because of chemistry. The batteries that power them have chemicals that store electricity. The screens use chemicals to light up and show us pictures and videos. Without chemistry, none of these gadgets would work!

So, you see, chemistry is everywhere! It’s not just something that scientists think about in labs. It’s part of our everyday lives, helping us cook, clean, stay healthy, breathe, dress, and even use technology. Understanding chemistry helps us know more about the world and how to make our lives better. Next time you see something happening, like a cake rising in the oven or a bubble popping, remember, it’s all chemistry!

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• Technology & the future

What has chemistry ever done for you?

From batteries to painkillers, chemistry is essential to our modern lives.

Expert reviewers

Dr Oliver Jones

Senior Lecturer in Analytical Chemistry

RMIT University

Professor Paul Mulvaney

Professor of Chemistry

School of Chemistry and Bio21 Institute, University of Melbourne

• Chemistry is a fundamental and enabling science that investigates molecules—the building blocks of all matter—and how they interact to affect the composition, structure and properties of substances.
• The industrial applications of chemistry directly affect our daily lives—what we eat, what we wear, our transport, the technology we use, how we treat illnesses and how we get electricity—to name just a few.
• Research is constantly deepening our understanding of chemistry, and leading to new discoveries.
• Chemistry will help us solve many future problems, including sustainable energy and food production, managing our environment, providing safe drinking water and promoting human and environmental health.

To many, chemistry is a foreign concept, belonging to the world of academia and textbooks with little relevance to our everyday life. In fact, you would be hard-pressed to find an aspect of your daily routine that isn’t directly impacted by chemistry research.

Chemistry is the study of molecules: the building blocks of matter. It is central to our existence, and leads our investigations into the human body, Earth, food, materials, energy, and anywhere and everywhere in between. The chemical industry, supported by chemistry research, underpins much of our economic progress, and provides wealth and prosperity for society. In Australia, 60,000 people are employed by the chemical industry and it contributes around $11.6 billion annually to our GDP.

What follows is a snapshot—just a small sample—of the major discoveries in chemistry that have helped to shape the way we live. From the first instances of metal work in the Copper Age in 5000 BC, to the digital era and the new cutting-edge technologies of today, such as nanoscience and biotechnology, chemists have more often than not been the driving force behind the progress in our standard of living.  

Chemical theory has been developing since well before ‘chemist’ became a possible career choice. The phenomenon of fire was one of the first marvels that humankind sought to understand and the use of fire led to the study and manipulation of metals. This dates back to 5000 BC, when copper was first discovered and replaced stone as a material for making tools. It was obtained by a process called smelting GLOSSARY smelting extracting metal from ore (a mixture of rock and metal) by heating and melting , and was thought to also have produced the first glass as a side product.

The Bronze Age arose when it was discovered that copper could be combined with tin to produce a harder metal—you guessed it, bronze. This was the first alloy GLOSSARY alloy a mixture of metal with other metals or non-metals. Common alloys include steel, brass and pewter. They are often cheaper than elemental metals, with many similar or enhanced properties.   ever made and resulted in stronger weapons and tools. The trading of these tools facilitated sharing of technology and knowledge between early civilisations. The Iron Age, following at around 1200 BC, saw the prevalence of iron increase as the major metal of choice for cutting tools and weapons. Iron was slower to evolve as a material because it required higher temperatures to work the metal. This shift saw a change in smelting practices, improved furnace technologies, and also the development of forging GLOSSARY forging shaping of metal using compressive forces, such as hammering , as opposed to the casting GLOSSARY casting Hot liquid metal is poured into a hollow cavity, and cooled in order to solidify it into a desired shape. techniques used in the Bronze Age.

Materials and manufacturing

The Iron Age also saw the development of many of the basic elements of urban development we are familiar with today such as cements, mortars and bitumen. During this period, populations became increasingly urbanised in large cities leading to construction of the first proper roads.

Around 500 years ago, chemistry became an earnest occupation. Elements other than naturally occurring metals were being identified and their properties were being explored—though they were still not entirely understood. People didn’t yet have much of an appreciation of the underlying science that determined material properties and it was unclear how many different basic or elemental building blocks there were.

Another important development was that of vulcanised rubber GLOSSARY vulcanised rubber hardened, more durable rubber, obtained by adding sulfur at high temperatures , in 1843 by Charles Goodyear. This led to pneumatic GLOSSARY pneumatic containing a cavity of air; operated by gas or air under pressure tyres and kicked off the polymer and plastics industries, which would later revolutionise the manufacture of household goods. The discovery by Alfred Nobel of dynamite in 1867 and more refined explosives later on led to rapid expansion of mining as a means to extract ores and minerals.

The synthesis of the first artificial dye, a purple colour later named mauveine, occurred in 1856. It was an accidental discovery made by William Perkin, an 18-year-old who was actually trying to make artificial quinine. Blue and purple pigments were historically incredibly rare, and mauveine was met with high demand. Its development drove further investigation into organic chemistry , and the production of related dyes and pigments. Some of the world’s biggest organic chemistry companies today were founded around this time due to demand for dye production.

Despite the increasing use of chemical compounds, it wasn’t until 1870 that Dimitri Mendeleev came up with a systematic way to arrange all the known chemical elements into the periodic table . The table is based on common chemical properties and trends in their behaviour. It is a concise, information-dense catalogue of all of the known different types of atoms, and it is still an essential tool for chemistry study today.

More recently, Harold Kroto, Richard Smalley, James Heath, Sean O'Brien and Robert Curl at Rice University made a new discovery regarding something we thought we thoroughly understood—they discovered a new form of carbon. Kroto, Curl and Smalley were later awarded the 1996 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for discovering fullerenes , a completely new arrangement of carbon atoms, forming ball-shaped cage-like structures. These have been useful in materials design and could have a number of biomedical applications.

This field of research has also led to the development of carbon nanotubes. Carbon nanotubes are used to create ultra-strong, lightweight materials, for use in aircraft for example.

Another form of carbon that has unique properties is graphene. Graphene is a sheet made of a single layer of carbon atoms, and although a single layer of atoms may sound extremely flimsy, it’s actually extremely tough, 200 times stronger than steel, ultra-light, flexible, and an excellent conductor. Although scientists knew for quite a while that graphite was made of sheets of carbon atoms, it was only in 2004 that Professors Andre Geim and Kostya Novoselov were able to isolate a single layer on its own to make graphene. Graphene isn’t yet as ubiquitous in our everyday lives as some other great chemical discoveries—with this one, it’s more of a case of ‘What will graphene do for you in the future?’ With its unique properties, it has the potential to have a huge impact in several areas , including electronics, materials, energy technology and biomedical applications.

One of the key contributions the field of chemistry has provided to our burgeoning society is the ability to harness and store electrical energy—electricity. Electricity had long been an intellectual curiosity, and the phenomena became more understood through experiments by chemists and physicists.

Traditional energy production, via combustion and thermodynamics of fossil fuels, led to the industrial revolution. This boom in industry from the mid-1700s to the 1800s was an era of growth, with chemical engineers coming to the fore to scale up and industrialise processes of manufacture. It was during this time that many of the practical uses of chemistry we rely on today were developed.

The batteries that so many of our devices depend upon are underpinned by a chemical reaction that produces electricity. The first electrical battery was created by Alessandro Volta, who proved that electricity flowed through wires attached to different metals and the types of metal used affected the voltage. The term ‘volt’ as a measure of electric potential is named in honour of him. Although current batteries are far more sophisticated than in Volta’s day, there is renewed interest in pushing this vital chemical technology further , so that sustainable energy produced by solar cells or wind energy can be stored.

Food and agriculture

Complex technology goes into modern food production. From soil science to nutrition analysis, and from safety testing to food packaging and preservation, the chemical processes involved are extensive, and often not given much consideration. For example, if it wasn’t for refrigeration, our food distribution systems would be limited and storage would be short lived. The first cooling systems were developed in 1874. They used dimethyl ether, but it wasn’t long before ammonia-based systems were introduced, which are still in use today in industrial refrigerators.

Ammonia is also an integral chemical innovation for food production, chiefly due to its use in fertiliser production. Indeed it is estimated that around 1 per cent of the world’s energy is used to make ammonia. Increasing the productivity of our food-growing systems has become necessary due to the combined pressures of population increase, climate change and water shortages. If it wasn't for the Haber-Bosch process, our current agricultural output would be unsustainable. It was first developed in 1909, and allows for the efficient, large-scale production of ammonia (NH 3 ) by reacting atmospheric nitrogen (N 2 ) with hydrogen (H 2 ) at high temperature and pressure. This resulted in an easily accessible route to fertiliser production, and was responsible for quadrupling agricultural productivity. The discovery of pesticides and herbicides further increased crop yields, with DDT and glyphosate being key compounds. Today, around 40–60 per cent of global agriculture yields rely on artificial fertilisers.

Human populations the world over rely on chemistry to maintain safe clean water supplies. Recycling will be essential for sustaining this resource into the future. Here in Australia, droughts forced us over the past decade to reduce our water use and reconsider our reliance on dams and reservoirs, and think about alternative water sources. There are already three large water desalination plants, in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Without this development in chemical engineering, nations including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Libya would most likely not have enough usable water to sustain their current populations. Effective resource management is becoming more important as we face environmental uncertainty , with chemistry playing a crucial role in potential solutions.

Modern health care is founded on many life-saving breakthroughs the field of chemistry has provided. These include developing new pharmaceuticals, diagnostic tools and better diagnostic equipment such as X-ray machines, MRI imaging, cancer tests and pregnancy kits. Analytical chemistry and forensic science are crucial for identifying poisons or toxins in food, plants and animals, and in tracing and identifying unknown chemicals and materials.

Medical practices have also drastically changed as chemical knowledge has advanced. The discovery of painkillers and anaesthetics opened up a whole new scope of opportunity for medical practitioners. Advanced surgery (rather than simple amputation) became possible. Compounds such as nitrous oxide GLOSSARY nitrous oxide a sedative agent also known as laughing gas, nitrous, nitro or NOS (N 2 O), or laughing gas, became popular and minor surgical procedures and dental work became slightly less risky, although infection was still a major challenge. Here, chemistry came to the rescue (again!) with the first antiseptics. In 1867, Joseph Lister introduced carbolic acid as an antiseptic to clean surgery wounds . Death rates in his surgery dropped from 45.7 per cent to 15 per cent.

Still on this front, but somewhat later, Alexander Fleming discovered the first antibiotic, penicillin, in 1928. This discovery ushered in a whole new era in fighting bacteria-borne illness. It wasn’t until the 1940s however, when Howard Florey, a scientist from Adelaide, manufactured penicillin on a large scale that it was adopted for widespread use. His work resulted in the easy treatment of infection, and has also saved millions of lives. But the microbes have begun to fight back, meaning our days of simply solved infections may soon be behind us. Due to the ever-increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance , further work in this field of chemistry is more important than ever.

Marie Curie was the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize, and the first person to receive two Nobel Prizes and to this day is one of only two people to hold two in two different, scientific fields (physics and chemistry). She is an important icon for science and in particular for chemistry, as her work in the discovery of radioactive elements GLOSSARY radioactive elements unstable elements that decay with time. They have no stable naturally occurring form.   provided the base work for innovations in X-ray imaging, nuclear power and radiotherapy.

In 1953, Francis Crick and James Watson published the structure of and mechanisms of DNA, which built largely on the work of Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins. Crick, Watson and Wilkins were awarded the 1962 Nobel Prize in Medicine for this discovery, by which time Rosalind Franklin had unfortunately died from cancer. This work has since helped to explain how diseases are passed down through generations, and explains other mysteries such as why we look like our parents, how cells function on a micro level and how life evolves. It was a pivotal moment for academic research, and has shaped the direction of research into medicines and health, with a push towards personalised medicine .

One aspect of chemical innovation that's largely taken for granted but is integral to the day-to-day life of many people now are the display screens in smart phones, televisions and computers. These devices use molecules known as liquid crystals to control light and images, which gives them their name—LCD (liquid crystal display) screens. Liquid crystals occur when a substance has an intermediary state between a solid and a liquid. Instead of having one melting point, describing the change from solid to liquid, a liquid crystal has two—an initial temperature at which a substance melts to form a turbid GLOSSARY turbid cloudy, opaque, or thick with suspended matter fluid, and a clear secondary melting point at which that turbid fluid becomes clear. Between these two points is the liquid crystalline state.

Liquid crystals have light modulating properties, and as such are useful in screens. They were first observed in 1888 by botanist and chemist Friedrich Reinitzer , who observed the effect in cholesterol extracted from carrots. LCD technology is likely to be superseded by light emitting diodes (LEDs) in the next decade. LED displays are more durable and consume less electricity. Their impact will depend on further materials breakthroughs in the fields of conducting polymers and nanomaterials such as quantum dots, which provide the bright, vivid colours needed for display screens.

The consequences of chemistry are far reaching. Chemistry has been largely responsible for shaping society as we know it; from developing stronger materials for large scale construction, down to what kind of cosmetic products you use every day. Society has benefited hugely from advances in the field, with the few key discoveries outlined here just a small cross-section of the chemical innovations that have driven society’s development. While discoveries in chemistry have made a huge impact, and continue to have emormous potential, we also need to ensure that we use them responsibly to ensure sustainability into the future. 

Batteries of the future

Feeding a hot, hungry world, fighting back: antimicrobial resistance.

• nanotechnology

Chemistry Application in Daily Life Essay

Introduction, the application of chemistry in life, the dangers of chemistry to life, works cited.

Chemistry involves more than the mere fact that that it entails the making of new combinations of chemical elements. It makes new combinations of industries and brings together different countries besides the chemical elements. It brings international competition, which results into the development of international cooperation.

Chemistry improves everyday life of millions of people around the globe. It helps in the protection of the environment, development of new live saving, medicine, design new materials for cars, electronics as well as medical implants. It has also played a pivotal role in the development of greener and more sustainable sources of energy.

Besides its usefulness, it has generated certain problems not only to the people but also to the environment. This paper focuses on the application of chemistry in life as well as some of the hazards that it has presented to life.

As the world’s population grows, some chemists are embarking on finding new ways of feeding the populations i.e. producing food. The senior vice president for chemical and physical sciences at DuPont Merck Pharmaceutical Company asserts that genetic engineering could lead to the development of saltwater-tolerant plants that will grow food in most saline places (Zare 7).

Genetic engineering has also been applied in the production of drought resistant crops that have helped in increasing food security especially in the developing and third world countries. Other than genetic engineering, chemists have employed other means of increasing the supply of food to many nations.

Hydrolyzing wood pulp has played a pivotal role in transforming it into a fermentable substance that is used in the production of alcohol. For many years, the production of alcohol has been the main goal for the process. Recent research has led to the realization of more useful food elements. The action of highly concentrated hydrochloric acid transforms wood pulp into soluble carbohydrates and finally into wood pulp. Based on laboratory results, the process yields 75 parts of crude foodstuffs that contain 85% of pure carbohydrates (Slosson 324).

This means the process can extract 60% of the carbohydrates in dry wood. The product proved to be high in nutritive value to not only animal feed but also to food. Furthermore, chemistry has played a pivotal role in the development of fertilizers that enhance productivity if crops thus help in achieving food security in the world. Moreover, for food security to be attained there must be a method that prolongs the shelf life of the food products. Food preservatives enhance a prolonged shelf life of most agricultural products.

The knowledge of chemistry has enabled researchers to come up with drugs for addressing not only human but also animal diseases. The medicine that patients receive form health care institutions is all products of chemistry. It is noteworthy that drugs that are more efficient are continually being invented. China’s research and development in biotechnology and biopharmaceutical has prioritized genetic breeding of high-yield and high-quality crops, transgenic technology and animal cloning (Chen et al. 950).

Additionally, they have embarked on gene- and protein-engineered vaccines and drugs, gene therapy and drug discovery and development. Through the advanced technological advancements, there has been the development of new drugs that enable medical practitioners to treat certain diseases that have been challenging in history. Some of the advancements include the therapeutic hepatitis B vaccine, gene-engineered HBV antigen-antibody complex as well as artificial blood substitutes.

Chemical products that are available in the market such as disinfectants help in fighting disease-causing agents. They also help keep water secure. The water treatment process that makes water safe for consumption is mainly a series of chemical reactions (Hoffman 141). Chemistry is also essential in the textile industry e.g. during the bleaching processes. This also applies in the paper industry.

It also helps in establishing international relations through trade of chemical substances and technologies. It has led to the breakdown of natural monopoly while promoting national independence. For instance, approximately two decades ago one could say that Chile had a natural monopoly of the world’s supply of nitrates. Different nations have tapped into new ways of meeting their need of nitrates. One of the main ways that nations have achieved this is by the utilization of nitrogen from the nitrogen of the air through fixation.

According to Wilson and Schwarzman (1203), in the last five decades, synthetic chemicals have become integrated into nearly all industrial processes and the commercial products and they constitute the material base of the contemporary society. There has been an enormous growth in the production of synthetic chemicals.

For instance, statistics show that the U.S. reported having produced approximately 15 trillion pounds of chemical substances in 2002. In 2005, there was a high record of chemicals with chemical manufacturers having produced nearly 27 trillion pounds off chemicals. There were more than six thousand types of chemicals reported.

All the chemicals that are produced are directly or indirectly. Some of them are used in industrial processes as well as in the production of products for human consumption. Research has shown that “global chemical production is projected to continue growing-about 3% per year with a doubling rate of 24 years, rapidly outpacing the rate of global population growth” (Wilson and Schwarzman, 1203). The global increasing trend in the production of chemicals will lead to a similar increase in the hazards associated with such chemicals.

Almost everyone in the world has an encounter with many chemicals in everyday life due to the wide distribution of chemicals throughout the economy and the environment. This occurs in different scenarios such as in the work place, in homes, through the air, food, water as well as waste streams.

Bio-monitoring experts have reported that there has been an increase in the exposure of industrial chemicals as well as pollutants. The Center for Disease Control has confirmed the presence of certain pollutants as well as synthetic chemicals in the body of over 140 U.S civilians (a representative sample of the U.S population). Such bio-accumulative chemicals pose a great threat to the lives of the victims since most of them have proven to be carcinogenic.

Some individuals are victims of early life exposure of some of the hazardous chemicals. For some individuals it occurs via the placenta. Once the chemicals get into the fetus’ body system, they tend to accumulate and this has detrimental effects not only to the mother but also to the fetus. Medical practitioners have argued that such accumulation of chemical in the fetus interfere with the normal and healthy development of the baby (Woodhouse and Breyman, 220).

Additionally, such early exposure to chemicals during the developmental stages is associated with some cases of cancers, asthma as well as developmental disorders. According to Wilson and Schwarzman, the prenatal exposure of synthetic chemicals as well as their accumulation is the cause of some of the common abnormalities of the male reproductive system (1204).

Most industrial workers are usually exposed to the risk of having certain occupational diseases. As compared to individuals whose line of work is not within the chemical industry, the industrial workers have a higher probability of being exposed to dangerous or rather hazardous chemicals.

Over 40,000 cases of asthma (on an annual basis) in the European continent are associated with exposure of the victims to workplace chemicals. This is also true for dermatitis cases. The prevalence of such diseases can be reduced by improving the safety of work place chemicals. It would also reduce 4,300 cases of cancer per year.

Technological advancements in chemistry have also exposed humanity to hazardous waste. For instance in 2007 in California, there were cases of underground water contamination/pollution (Wilson and Schwarzman 1204). It was caused by the direct leakage of hazardous chemical wastes into the underground water sources.

This poses a threat-what the Department of Toxic Substances Control calls a major threat to human health or the environment. Most of the hazardous chemicals at the disposal sites are known dermatogens, neurotoxicants and carcinogens. Such incidences pose not only health but also environmental concerns to the communities that live in such neighborhoods.

The paper has discussed the application of chemistry in life as well as some of the hazards that it has presented to life. It aids the provision of solutions to some of the challenges of the 21 st century. They include improving human health, finding sustainable sources of energy as well as protecting the environment.

Additionally, it has helped in addressing some of the problems that come with the advancement of technology in almost all the sectors of the economy. However, it has some life threatening effects to people besides being potentially disastrous to the environment. For instance, most of the synthetic chemicals are harmful to human health e.g. by being carcinogenic.

Chen, Zhu. Et al. “Life Sciences and Biotechnology in China.” Philosophical Transactions: Biological Sciences 362. 1482 (2007): 947-957. Print.

Hofmann, Mary. “Science of Everyday Things: Real Life Chemistry/ Science of Everyday Things: Real Life Physics.” School Library Journal 48.8 (2002): 141-143. Print.

Slosson, Edwin. “Chemistry Alters International Relations.” The Science-Newsletter 14. 398(1988): 323-324. Print.

Wilson, Michael, and Schwarzman, Megan. “Health Policy: Toward A New U.S Chemicals Policy: Rebuilding the Foundation to Advance New Science, Green Chemistry, and Environmental Health.” Environmental Health Perspectives 117.8(2009): 1202-1209. Print.

Woodhouse, Edward, and Breyman, Steve. “Green Chemistry as Social Movement?” Science, Technology, & Human Values 30.2 (2005): 199-222. Print.

Zare, Richard. “A Golden Age for Chemistry.” The Futurist 32.6 (1998): 7-9. Print.

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IvyPanda . 2018. "Chemistry Application in Daily Life." November 20, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/chemistry-in-life/.

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Home / Essay Samples / Science / Chemical Reaction / Everyday Chemistry: How Science Shapes Our Lives

Everyday Chemistry: How Science Shapes Our Lives

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• Topic: Chemical Reaction , Knowledge , Personal Statement

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