Monday, March 30, 2020

Why Should I Study Chemistry?

"The country which is in advance of the rest of the world in chemistry will also be foremost in wealth and in general prosperity."

- Sir William Ramsay, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry in 1904 

Chemistry - Role and Significance 

Chemistry plays a vital role in everyone's lives and has an impact on almost every aspect of our existence in some way or the other. Everything on our planet is made up of chemicals. Chemistry helps us understand how items around us are made and most importantly, how we are made. Our body is made up of various chemical compounds and elements. Chemical reactions occur when we breathe, eat, sleep and even think. Right from birth control to the progress of the life cycle - all have been made possible using the unambiguous services of Chemistry. Chemistry helps one understand the functioning of nature and comprehend the occurrence of natural phenomena, thereby, making life a little less mysterious. It gives us answers to questions such as why are plants green? How is cheese made? Why leaves change colours in autumn? What is soap and how does it clean hands? Chemistry is often referred to as the central science-connecting all other fields of science with one another. Basic knowledge of Chemistry is essential for Geologists, Biochemists, Pharmacologists, Astronomers and Geneticists. 

Career Opportunities for Chemistry Graduates

A graduate degree in Chemistry serves as a basis for higher studies and plenty of opportunities are available in the field of research and development. Since most of the industries use chemicals directly or indirectly either as raw material, as catalysts, as products or by-products, experts in chemical science get an opportunity of utilising their in-depth knowledge and know-how of the different types of chemicals, their compositions, properties and environmental impacts in all these sectors.

After completing a degree in BSc (Hons.) Chemistry, one can opt for pursuing a master degree in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Drug Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Materials Chemistry. Some sectors where B Sc (Hons.) Chemistry graduates can seek employment are pharmaceutical industries, chemical manufacturing, forensic science departments, plastic industries, agrochemical industries, etc. Apart from these, a Chemistry graduate can also utilise his expertise in fields such as oil, gas and power sectors and also in defence services.

The relevance of studying Chemistry lies in the fact that it encompasses the study of a wide variety of things as all matter is made up of chemicals. There has been manifold progress in the field of chemistry over the years and many new areas are waiting to be explored by the upcoming scientists. A Chemical Science graduate can therefore utilise the abundant resources and opportunities available and contribute immensely towards the welfare of mankind.


Dr Aditya Sharma 
Assistant Professor 
The NorthCap University, Gurugram

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