A SUBJECT WORTH EXPLORING Is Chemistry cool? In groups, discuss these points giving reasons for your opinions. a. Why do some students love Chemistry and think it is very important to study it? Because it plays a role in every aspect of our lives. 2 THE MAJOR BRANCHES OF CHEMISTRY Chemistry is the study of the composition, behaviour and properties of matter, and of the elements of the Earth and its atmosphere. Chemistry may be pure science or applied science, but there is not a sharp line of demarcation between the two. Pure Chemistry refers to pure research, trying to get a better understanding of the properties of existing matter. Pure Chemistry is further divided into three main branches: Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry. Because it helps us understand the world around us. Because it has substantially improved our standard of living. Because it helps us make educated choices about everyday products that we use. Because the Chemistry teacher is very good at teaching. Other b. Why don t some students like Chemistry? Because it s hard to like something that you don t understand. Because you need to approach the subject with a great deal of attention, patience and perseverance. Because Chemistry brings in a new language difficult to memorise: symbols, formulas, chemical equations, etc. Because the Chemistry teacher never makes the subject interesting. Other ONLINE RESOURCES A wide-ranging science 80 Module 2 ELEMENTS