Chemistry: Definition and Branches
Chemistry is a physical science that deals with the study of interactions between matter and
energy. It develops the understanding of matter’s properties, characteristics, physical and
chemical variations. We regard matter as something that has weight and inhabits space.
Chemistry deals with the study of atoms which are composed of subatomic particles of protons,
neutrons and electrons. The nature of atoms combined, makes up a matter.
Chemistry comprises of many branches that deals with nature of any matter. Here, we will
elaborate the main branches of Chemistry. These include Physical, Analytical, Biochemistry,
Organic and Inorganic.
Analytical Chemistry:
It is the study of analyzing the chemical elements of samples. Qualitative and Quantitative
analysis are main branches of Analytical Chemistry. Qualitative deals with methods and
measurements for the determination of substance elements. Quantitative analysis provides
knowledge of the identification of an unknown sample.
Biochemistry:
Study of living organisms is classified as Biochemistry. The research helps in the development
of biological phenomenon in the chemical discipline. Study of cancer cells or any other
infectious diseases is related to this branch of Chemistry. Biochemistry is also classified in
Enzymology, Endocrinology, Clinical Biochemistry, Molecular Biochemistry, Pharmacological
Biochemistry and others.
Physical Chemistry:
The study of physical properties and structure of molecules comes under Physical Chemistry. It
deals with the combination of physics and chemistry which include principles and
methodologies. The impact of chemical structure on a physical property is studied in this branch.
Sub-branches include Electrochemistry, Photochemistry, and Surface chemistry, Chemical
Kinetics, Thermochemistry, Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy.