Introduction to Chemistry - SS1 Chemistry Past Questions and Answers - page 3
Organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical chemistry are major branches of chemistry. Discuss the unique focus and applications of each branch.
- Organic Chemistry: Organic chemistry is the branch that focuses on the study of carbon-based compounds and their properties, structure, synthesis, and reactions. It plays a vital role in understanding the chemistry of life, including the structure and function of biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids. Organic chemistry finds applications in pharmaceuticals, polymers, agrochemicals, and materials science, contributing to the development of new drugs, sustainable materials, and innovative technologies.
- Inorganic Chemistry: Inorganic chemistry deals with the study of inorganic compounds, which include minerals, metals, nonmetals, and their behaviour. It examines the properties, structure, synthesis, and reactions of inorganic substances. Inorganic chemistry finds applications in various fields, including catalysis, materials science, environmental chemistry, and energy production. It contributes to the development of catalysts, advanced materials, energy storage systems, and environmental remediation technologies.
- Physical Chemistry: Physical chemistry focuses on the study of the fundamental principles and theories that govern chemical systems and their behaviour. It explores the relationship between matter and energy, and the principles of thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and kinetics. Physical chemistry plays a crucial role in understanding chemical reactions, phase changes, spectroscopy, and molecular dynamics. It has applications in fields such as materials science, chemical engineering, and pharmaceutical research.
- Analytical Chemistry: Analytical chemistry involves the study of the qualitative and quantitative analysis of substances and their composition. It focuses on developing methods and techniques for identifying, separating, and quantifying chemical components. Analytical chemistry plays a vital role in quality control, forensic analysis, environmental monitoring, and pharmaceutical analysis. It utilises various techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry to analyse samples and provide accurate and precise data.
Which of the following best describes the scientific method?
A systematic approach to conducting experiments in a laboratory.
A process used to solve mathematical problems.
A method of conducting scientific research based on observation, hypothesis testing, and data analysis.
A set of rules and regulations for laboratory safety.
Why is it important to follow proper laboratory safety practices?
To avoid getting bad grades in the lab.
To ensure the accuracy of experimental results.
To prevent accidents, injuries, and exposure to hazardous substances.
To impress the instructor with your attention to detail.
Which of the following is an example of a safety precaution in the laboratory?
Wearing gloves while handling chemicals.
Leaving the fume hood open during an experiment.
Eating and drinking in the lab to stay energised.
Mixing chemicals without proper labelling.
Who is credited with the development of the periodic table?
Marie Curie
Dmitri Mendeleev
Isaac Newton
Albert Einstein
How are elements arranged in the periodic table?
Alphabetical order
Increasing atomic number
Increasing atomic mass
Decreasing atomic number
The elements in the periodic table are grouped into:
5 groups
7 groups
8 groups
18 groups
The horizontal rows in the periodic table are called:
Groups
Periods
Families
Elements
Elements in the same group of the periodic table have:
Similar atomic numbers
Similar atomic masses
Similar chemical properties
Similar physical properties
The elements in Group 1 of the periodic table are known as:
Noble gases
Alkali metals
Halogens
Transition metals