Chemistry in Everyday Life

When someone hears the word chemistry, general concepts such as the periodic table, or explosive experiments come to mind. Many students view chemistry as merely a subject in school, and once that class period is done they leave chemistry behind until they re-enter the classroom the next day. However, chemistry follows those students, and everyone for that matter, in every aspect of their lives. It exists in the foods we eat, the hobbies we enjoy, and daily practices to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Chemistry affects people, specifically students, outside of the classroom, through cooking, baking, and the foods we eat. An example of this is when people tend to cry when chopping onions. Why does this happen? The answer is chemistry. The onion contains enzymes that, when  cut, are released into the air and react with the human eye, causing it to tear. 

Another common use of chemistry in the kitchen is cooking and baking. When someone is cooking or baking, all of  the ingredients create a heterogeneous mixture, that is then somehow altered again in the oven or with another kitchen appliance. This combination of physical and chemical alterations to make food is, you guessed it, chemistry!

Another example of chemistry in everyday life is when you brush your teeth. The toothpaste on your toothbrush removes any plaque from your teeth, specifically, toothpaste containing fluoride reacts with the food and works to either dissolve or dislodge it. It also restores the necessary minerals in the enamel on your teeth to keep them healthy and clean!

Chemistry is not just a subject in school, about subatomic particles or crazy experiments. Chemistry plays a vital role in everyone’s life, and ensures that people stay healthy and maintain a positive lifestyle!