Disciplines

KEY POINTS:

• The number of degree courses and careers that can be accessed through the study of Chemistry is massive. Furthermore, the number of branches of Chemistry is multiple and diverse.
• Chemistry is separated into five main branches – Physical, Analytical, Organic, Inorganic and Biochemistry. Each area has a particular focus, but they are of course all linked through underlying concepts such as bonding, structure, energy, etc.
• The three Natural Sciences are interwoven, and it is obvious that there is plenty of Physics involved in the study of Physical and Analytical Chemistry. Equally many observations in Biology require explanations that are grounded in Organic and even Inorganic Chemistry.
• As with any science, Chemistry is an ever-expanding field.  For every discovery or new piece of data, we generate even more questions to answer, ideas to test, fields of research to be explored. Some the recent challenges to be faced and overcome include combating acid rain, reducing CO₂ emissions, and making plastic biodegrade.
• Hopefully Chemistry can continue to solve the problems faster than the human race seems to make them!