Chemistry

A modern, albeit superficial, definition of chemistry is that it is the science dealing with the composition of substances, their properties and reactivity. All matter in the universe is composed of the chemical elements; their systematic study, and that of the compounds they form, is chemistry. Chemistry has earned itself the title of the central science, as the study of matter is fundamental to all other sciences, including physics, materials science, biology, and pharmacology to name just a few. Typical applications of chemistry in modern life include the discovery and development of new drugs; the discovery and production of fuels, plastics, fertilizers, pesticides, vaccines, and foods; the use of chemical techniques by forensic scientists to solve crimes; and the production of new materials and pigments for the clothes we wear and the many functional items in our homes. It is certain that chemistry has occurred since time began and will prevail until time ceases, and this makes the discussion of chemistry in time both fascinating and hugely important. The impact that the science of chemistry has had on humanity is huge. The ill-defined and semi-empirical beginnings of what we now know as the highly advanced, organized, and multidisciplinary science of chemistry lends well to a general overview of the subject being discussed within the framework of time.

Initially, the development of chemistry as a widely accepted scientific discipline from its rather [Page 168]chaotic foundation in alchemy and philosophy is discussed from a historical perspective, with particular emphasis on the scientific, technological, global, and economic impact from its initial establishment in the 16th century to the present day. Next, the position and influence of chemistry in the 21st century is introduced by a retrospective exposition of the effect of chemistry on humanity and the environment. The subsequent expansion alludes to the challenges within chemistry itself as both the source of, and solution to, many fundamental problems that currently face humanity, and that will most certainly become more pressing and severe in the near future.