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Chemistry LibreTexts

1: The Chemical World

  • Page ID
    323238
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    • 1.1: The Scope of Chemistry
      Chemistry is the study of matter and the ways in which different forms of matter combine with each other. You study chemistry because it helps you to understand the world around you. Everything you touch or taste or smell is a chemical, and the interactions of these chemicals with each other define our universe. Chemistry forms the fundamental basis for biology and medicine.
    • 1.2: Chemicals Compose Ordinary Things
      Chemistry is the branch of science dealing with the structure, composition, properties, and the reactive characteristics of matter. Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space. Thus, chemistry is the study of literally everything around us—the liquids that we drink, the gases we breathe, the composition of everything from the plastic case on your phone to the earth beneath your feet. Moreover, chemistry is the study of the transformation of matter.
    • 1.3: Hypothesis, Theories, and Laws
      Although many have taken science classes throughout the course of their studies, people often have incorrect or misleading ideas about some of the most important and basic principles in science. Most students have heard of hypotheses, theories, and laws, but what do these terms really mean? Prior to reading this section, consider what you have learned about these terms before. What do these terms mean to you? What do you read that contradicts or supports what you thought?
    • 1.4: The Scientific Method - How Chemists Think
      Science is a process of knowing about the natural universe through observation and experiment. Scientists go through a rigorous process to determine new knowledge about the universe; this process is generally referred to as the scientific method. Science is broken down into various fields, including chemistry, and is both qualitative and quantitative.
    • 1.5: A Beginning Chemist - How to Succeed
      Most people can succeed in chemistry, but it often requires dedication, hard work, the right attitude and study habits!
    • 1.6: Solving Society’s Problems - Scientific Research
      How did chemistry develop? What is happening in the field of chemistry today? What can I do with a chemistry degree? All of these are good questions and they should be asked by students interested in chemistry. Research in chemistry (or any other field, for that matter) is interesting and challenging. But there are different directions a person can take as they explore research opportunities.
    • 1.7: Cosmetics - Personal Care Chemicals
    • 1.E: Exercises
      Exercises for Chapter 1 of Tro's Introductory Chemistry textmap.


    1: The Chemical World is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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