Why chemistry

The behavior of atoms, molecules, and ions determines the sort of world we live in, our shapes and sizes, and even how we feel on a given day. Chemists who understand these phenomena are very well equipped to tackle problems faced by our modern society. On any given day, a chemist may be studying the mechanism of the recombination of DNA molecules, measuring the amount of insecticide in drinking water, comparing the protein content of meats, developing a new antibiotic, or analyzing a moon rock.

To design a synthetic fiber, a life-saving drug, or a space capsule requires a knowledge of chemistry. To understand why an autumn leaf turns red, or why a diamond is hard, or why soap gets us clean, requires, first, a basic understanding of chemistry.

It may be obvious to you that a chemistry background is important if you plan to teach chemistry or to work in the chemical industry developing chemical commodities such as polymeric materials, pharmaceuticals, flavorings, preservatives, dyestuffs, or fragrances. You may also be aware that chemists are frequently employed as environmental scientists, chemical oceanographers, chemical information specialists, chemical engineers, and chemical salespersons.

However, it may be less obvious to you that a significant knowledge of chemistry is often required in a number of related professions including medicine, pharmacy, medical technology, nuclear medicine, molecular biology, biotechnology, pharmacology, toxicology, paper science, pharmaceutical science, hazardous waste management, art conservation, forensic science and patent law. Thus, a chemistry degree can be effectively combined with advanced work in other fields which may lead, for example, to work in higher management sometimes with an M.

It is often observed that today's graduate, unlike the graduate of a generation ago, should anticipate not a single position with one employer or in one industry, but rather many careers.

Many of our current energy sources store energy in the chemical bonds that build these substances. We can therefore expect that chemistry will play a major role in the quest to find clean alternatives to fuels.

This is one of the major challenges of our time. The science of chemistry overlaps with a diverse set of fields, such as physics, mathematics, biology, medicine, and environmental sciences. Chemistry is sometimes referred to as the central science because it connects so many aspects of modern science. Acquiring knowledge on the properties of chemicals and on chemical processes can give a deep understanding of biological processes or the physical properties of materials.

As a result knowledge in chemistry is proven to be useful in many fields. Apply To WSU. General Advising. Laine Berghout , Dept. Declare Your Major. Use precise geolocation data. Select personalised content. Create a personalised content profile. Measure ad performance. Select basic ads. Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights.