1. What is Chemistry? In the beginning of the year, we would have said something along the lines of: The study of matter and the changes it undergoes. But over the course of the year we have learned that no one definition can define chemistry, instead it must be defined by the vast number of topics that it is comprised of.

2. Elements and Compounds The first, and most important part of chemistry is understanding elements and compounds. Elements are comprised of tiny particles called electrons, protons and neutrons, and are the smallest state of matter that can exist with individual properties. These elements make up the period table and can then combine to form many different compounds.

3. Stoichiometry A key point to elements and compounds is Stoichiometry, which is the calculation of quantities relationships of the reactants and products in chemical equations. We use this in every part of chemistry because it allows us to understand what happens in chemical equations.

4. Branches of Chemistry Once you grasp the concept of elements and compounds, you can move on to the different branches of chemistry. Some include thermochemistry, nuclear chemistry, organic chemistry, and more.

5. Thermochemistry Thermochemistry is the study of energy(heat) lost or gained in chemical reactions. Exothermic is when energy is released into its surroundings, while endothermic is when it takes in energy from its surroundings. Thermochemistry is also the study of the energy lost or gained when physical states change, such as the boiling or freezing of water.

6. Organic Chemistry Organic chemistry is the study of hydrocarbons and carbons, and their structure, properties, and composition. Carbon makes up every living thing, and organic chemistry is important because it helps us understand how living things react.

7. Nuclear Chemistry Nuclear chemistry is the study of radioactive elements and how the processes that they undergo affect the environment. Elements become radioactive when they either lose or gain neutrons through gamma, beta and alpha rays. Another part of nuclear chemistry is fission and fusion, fission where the nucleus breaks apart when hit, and fusion, when the particles combine with the nucleus to form a new compound. Fission vs. Fusion

8. So to Sum Up Chemistry is the study of all the branches of chemistry, and how we can apply them to our everyday lives. We can’t possibly cover every single branch of chemistry, so the most important were included.