Chemistry

What is Chemistry?

Bubbles
Bubbles. Photo: © Rachel Fitzgerald.

Chemistry is the study of matter and is the branch of the natural sciences dealing with the composition of substances, their properties and reactions.

Chemistry is often referred to as 'the central science' since some knowledge of it is required for the study of many different disciplines.

Chemistry Nobel Prize winners

Careers in Chemistry

Chemistry impacts on all aspects of our lives including paints, dyes, food colouring and flavouring, clothing, metal objects and cleaning products. Chemistry gives us an understanding of the things that surround us. Like other traditional areas of science, chemistry has spawned new technological and scientific disciplines in combination with other traditional disciplines eg nanotechnology.

A recent survey conducted by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute showed 50% of chemists in Australia to be employed in industry and 24% in government laboratories, 25% in universities or teaching. The industrial sector includes such diverse areas as petrochemicals, food and drink, fertilisers, paper, heavy chemicals, iron and steel, organic chemicals, pharmaceuticals, polymers, computing and scientific journalism. Government laboratories include research institutions, forensic science, analytical laboratories and many statutory authorities.

University Courses

Teacher Resources