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Introduction to Chemistry

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A series of free High School Chemistry Video Lessons.

In this lesson, we will learn

  • The Definition of Chemistry
  • The Steps of the Scientific Method
  • Dimensional Analysis
Chemistry Definition
Chemistry can be broadly defined as the study of matter and the changes that it undergoes.
In Chemistry there are several different branches including organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry and biochemistry.

What is Chemistry?
Chemistry is the study of the composition and properties of matter and the changes it undergoes.
Matter
Solids - Definite shape and volume
Liquids - No definite shape, but definite volume
Gases - No definite shape or volume
A basic definition of chemistry
Chemistry is the study of matter and the change it undergoes.
Five branches of chemistry:
1. Organic Chemistry
2. Inorganic Chemistry
3. Physical Chemistry
4. Analytical Chemistry
5. Biochemistry



Scientific Method Steps
The scientific method is a set of guidelines for scientific investigation.
It helps us approach all scientific experiments and inquiries methodically and scientifically in order to avoid jumping to conclusions or missing links in a logical chain.
The five steps of the scientific method include
1) defining the problem
2) making observations
3) forming a hypothesis
4) conducting an experiment
5) drawing conclusions.

A brief description of the scientific method.
Question
Hypothesis
Independent Variable
Dependent Variable
Controlled Variable
Control Group
Data
Conclusions
Publish Results
Re-test
The 5 steps of the scientific method.
1. Ask a question
2. Research
3. Hypothesis
4. Experiment
5. Draw a conclusion
Dimensional Analysis
Dimensional analysis, also called the factor/label method, is a method for converting between units using ratios between different unit systems.

How to use dimensional analysis to convert units in chemistry problems?
Dimensional Analysis (Factor/Label Method)
Example:
1. How many seconds are in 7 days?
2. If you are going 50 miles/hr, how many feet/sec are you going?
3. How much bleach would you need to make a quart of 5% bleach solution?

Try the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
Mathway Calculator Widget


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