Chapter 1.1, Problem 1LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The effect of chemistry on all aspects of life and most natural events is to be explained.

Concept Introduction : Chemistry is the branch of science that examines the characteristics, make-up, and structure of substances, as well as the changes they go through, and the energy released or absorbed.

Answer to Problem 1LC

Chemistry and chemicals are used in everything one can see, feel, smell, taste, and touch.

Explanation of Solution

All objects that can be classified as materials are collectively referred to as matter. Anything with mass and space is matter. Everything around us is formed of matter, including trees, buildings, food, etc. Chemistry is the investigation of the chemical makeup of matter and the changes that it goes through.

Consider a process of photosynthesis that occurs naturally in plants. In the process of photosynthesis, ${\text{CO}}_{\text{2}}$ and ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$ react in the presence of sunlight to form glucose and oxygen. Reaction is,

  ${\text{6CO}}_{\text{2}}+6{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}\to {\text{C}}_{\text{6}}{\text{H}}_{\text{12}}{\text{O}}_{\text{6}}+6{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$

So, chemistry studies the chemical changes occurring in photosynthesis. Thus, the study of chemistry covers both the atomic structure and structural organization of compounds as well as the various interactions between substances that might result in reactions.