Importance of Chemistry
NCERT Reference: Class 11 Chemistry, Chapter 1 – Page 1 (Part I)
Quick Notes:
- Chemistry is the central science, linking physics, biology, and applied fields.
- It studies the composition, structure, properties, and changes of matter.
- Plays a vital role in medicine, agriculture, industry, environment, and materials.
- Chemistry is key to solving global challenges like pollution, health crises, and energy demand.
- Green chemistry focuses on sustainable, low-waste solutions for the future.
Full Notes:
What is Chemistry?
Chemistry is the scientific study of matter, including its composition, structure, properties, and the changes it undergoes. It helps explain the substances around us and how they interact in both natural and artificial systems.
Chemistry as the Central Science
Chemistry connects the principles of physics with the complexity of biological systems and is often called the central science. It is foundational to fields such as:
- Medicine – understanding biochemical reactions and drug development.
- Agriculture – improving crop productivity and pest control.
- Environmental science – monitoring pollution and managing waste.
- Material science – developing alloys, polymers, and new functional materials.
- Energy – creating fuels, batteries, and renewable technologies.
Examples of Chemistry in Everyday Life
- Food: Preservatives, flavors, and nutrition enhancement.
- Hygiene: Soaps, disinfectants, and cleaning agents.
- Health: Antibiotics, vaccines, and diagnostics.
- Transportation: Fuels, lubricants, and synthetic materials in vehicles.
- Electronics: Semiconductors and display technologies.
The Future Role of Chemistry
Chemistry will continue to be essential in addressing:
- Climate change – through carbon capture, clean energy, and sustainable chemistry.
- Resource management – by recycling and reducing waste.
- Public health – by advancing drug delivery and diagnostics.
- Industrial safety – by minimizing toxic by-products and energy usage.
Worked Example
Q: Give two examples to show how chemistry is used in everyday life.
- Chemistry helps in the development of medicines such as antibiotics, which are used to treat infections.
- Chemistry is used to produce fertilisers that improve agricultural yield.
Matt’s exam tip
Avoid generic statements like "chemistry is useful." Instead, focus your answer around clear categories – health, food, energy, environment – and give specific examples for each.
Summary
- Chemistry is the central science that explains matter and its changes.
- It underpins medicine, agriculture, environment, materials, and energy.
- Everyday life relies on chemistry from food and hygiene to electronics and transport.
- Future challenges like climate change and public health will be addressed using green and sustainable chemistry.