INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY AND LABORATORY APPARATUS
Chemistry is a branch of science that deals with the study of matter, its structure,
composition, properties, and the changes it undergoes. Other branches of science and
biology and physics.
The three main branches of Chemistry are Physical, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
The study of Chemistry enables us to acquire certain scientific skills such as handling of
Laboratory apparatus, performing experiment and thinking scientifically.
We experience Chemistry changes in our everyday life e.g. Cooking, Lighting of match,
Burning of firewood, Rusting of nails etc.
Scientific Method
The Scientific method deals with Law, theory and hypothesis
A Scientific Law
Is a statement that describes experimental facts e.g experiment has shown that all gases
are compressible.
A Theory
Is an idea suggested to explain an experimental fact e.g. compressibility in gases is
explained on the assumption that gases are made up of small particles that are far apart.
When an idea is still in testing stage, it is called hypothesis
Scientists use their senses to observe what happens around them; this observation
accounts for a problem they try to solve. An hypothesis or reasonable explanation is then
put forward, and the experiment is carried out. When the hypothesis is tested and found to
be correct, it becomes a theory. A tested and proven theory then becomes a Law.
If the experiment gives negative results, the scientist goes back and starts from the
hypothesis and finds new ways to improve on it.
, Uses/Application of Chemistry
The study of Chemistry has contributed greatly towards the provision of the basic
necessities of life. These include:
1. Agriculture
The use of fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicides has helped to increase food production
and preservatives used in preserving food.
Soil analysis, Agricultural implements are all available as a result of Chemistry.
2. Clothing
Through intensive chemical research, many textile industries have been established for the
manufacture of textile materials.
3. Medicine
Drugs (pharmaceuticals), surgical equipment are available from chemical research and
technology.
4. Industry
Manufacturing of goods, food processing, industrial equipment, fuels.
5. Military
Chemistry has contributed to the discovery of explosives used by the military, Arms and
ammunitions, Helmets, Bullets-proof, etc.
6. Housing
The house constructed uses the following chemical products: cement, concrete, steel, bricks,
and tiles.
7. Transportation
Modern transportation like motor cars, aircraft, motorcycles were made possible by
chemists producing suitable fuels and structural materials like alloys, which are light strong,
and heat-resistant.
Chemistry is a branch of science that deals with the study of matter, its structure,
composition, properties, and the changes it undergoes. Other branches of science and
biology and physics.
The three main branches of Chemistry are Physical, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
The study of Chemistry enables us to acquire certain scientific skills such as handling of
Laboratory apparatus, performing experiment and thinking scientifically.
We experience Chemistry changes in our everyday life e.g. Cooking, Lighting of match,
Burning of firewood, Rusting of nails etc.
Scientific Method
The Scientific method deals with Law, theory and hypothesis
A Scientific Law
Is a statement that describes experimental facts e.g experiment has shown that all gases
are compressible.
A Theory
Is an idea suggested to explain an experimental fact e.g. compressibility in gases is
explained on the assumption that gases are made up of small particles that are far apart.
When an idea is still in testing stage, it is called hypothesis
Scientists use their senses to observe what happens around them; this observation
accounts for a problem they try to solve. An hypothesis or reasonable explanation is then
put forward, and the experiment is carried out. When the hypothesis is tested and found to
be correct, it becomes a theory. A tested and proven theory then becomes a Law.
If the experiment gives negative results, the scientist goes back and starts from the
hypothesis and finds new ways to improve on it.
, Uses/Application of Chemistry
The study of Chemistry has contributed greatly towards the provision of the basic
necessities of life. These include:
1. Agriculture
The use of fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicides has helped to increase food production
and preservatives used in preserving food.
Soil analysis, Agricultural implements are all available as a result of Chemistry.
2. Clothing
Through intensive chemical research, many textile industries have been established for the
manufacture of textile materials.
3. Medicine
Drugs (pharmaceuticals), surgical equipment are available from chemical research and
technology.
4. Industry
Manufacturing of goods, food processing, industrial equipment, fuels.
5. Military
Chemistry has contributed to the discovery of explosives used by the military, Arms and
ammunitions, Helmets, Bullets-proof, etc.
6. Housing
The house constructed uses the following chemical products: cement, concrete, steel, bricks,
and tiles.
7. Transportation
Modern transportation like motor cars, aircraft, motorcycles were made possible by
chemists producing suitable fuels and structural materials like alloys, which are light strong,
and heat-resistant.
