By Angela Jorge
In chemistry, there are two main branches in which professionals and students alike learn about. These are organic chemistry and inorganic chemistry. Each plays a vital role in the world, especially in areas of science, manufacturing and trade. Yet, for the layman, most people are unable to separate these two fields, yet alone understand what each segment brings to the table. This is a pity given how important both organic and inorganic chemistry are.
Defining Organic & Inorganic Chemistry
Without having a conceptual understanding of organic and inorganic chemistry, it is difficult to visualise their role in our society. Within our JC chemistry tuition lessons, we often define these branches of chemistry as follows:
- Organic chemistry is identified as the research of carbon-containing substances.
- Inorganic chemistry is the study of the remaining subset of compounds besides organic substances
It should be noted that these definitions are purely for academic purposes. In real life, there is plenty of overlap between organic and inorganic chemistry given the nature of various compounds or substances. In fact, many academic definitions and concepts have been altered in recognition of the increasing overlap.
Nowadays, you will find that organic chemistry includes substances that were traditionally synthetic or human made. Nonetheless, most researchers in these fields still define themselves accordingly to these 2 areas. As such, within the chemistry industry, you will find organic chemists and inorganic chemists.
Uses of Inorganic Chemistry
Inorganic compounds are made use of as catalysts, pigments, finishings, surfactants, medicines, fuel sources, and more. They commonly have high melting points and specific high or low electrical conductivity qualities, that make them valuable for specific functions.
Inorganic chemists are used in fields varying from extracting to microchips. Their job is based on understanding the actions and the analogues for inorganic substances and just how these materials can be changed, separated, and utilized. It includes developing techniques to recover metals from waste currents; work as analytical chemists specializing in the evaluation of mined ores; and carrying out studies on the utilization of inorganic chemicals for treating ground.
Uses of Organic Chemistry
Organic chemistry is a very imaginative science in which chemists produce new molecules and discover the characteristics of existing compounds. It is the most popular discipline for ACS chemists and Ph.D. chemists.The variety of application of organic compounds is substantial and also includes, yet is not restricted to, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, food, cosmetics, paints, and explosives.
Organic chemists at all levels are usually used by pharmaceutical, biotech, chemical, consumer product, and oil markets. Chemists in industry primarily work in development, while chemists in academics are involved in more basic analysis. The federal (e.g., Fda, Patent and Trademark Office) state, and local nationals also hire organic chemists.
