INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY
Science has been classified into various branches for simplification of
study. It is broadly classified into Chemistry, Biology and
Physics. Mathematics is not branched as a science but considered as the
basis of all science.
Chemistry may be defined as the science that is concerned with the
characterization and classification of matter and the chemical transformations
which it undergoes. However, this may not be an adequate definition as each new
chemical concept stimulates fresh observation and experimentation leading to
growing refinement as well as development of other concepts.
From the above it follows that, an understanding of chemistry starts with
characterization (i.e. composition and structure) of different types of matter.
As all matter (available naturally or synthetically prepared) is made up of
atoms of different elements, study of elements and its atoms constitutes a
fundamental branch of chemistry. The chemical behavior of matter can be
explained using atomic structure as its basis. Similarly the physical behavior
of matter provides information regarding molecular structure.
Chemistry is further divided into three branches :-
| 1. |
Organic Chemistry |
Study of carbon compounds. |
| 2. |
Inorganic Chemistry |
Study of elements (metals or non-metals)
and compounds other than those studied in organic chemistry. |
| 3. |
Physical Chemistry |
Deals with structure of matter and the laws
governing chemical reactions of organic or inorganic matter. (i.e.
chemical bonding, electrolysis, gas laws, chemical thermodynamics etc.) |
All these subjects and more will be dealt with in detail during the course of
this book.
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