Chemicals are substances with a distinct molecular composition that are produced by or used in a chemical process. They may be elements or compounds and they are characterized by a limited set of limited properties like solubility, melting points, and boiling points. They are used in a wide range of processes including, but not limited to, the production of food, the development of new materials, and the provision of energy.
Chemicals can be categorized in various ways according to their structure, end-use applications, and industrial significance. Here are some common ways to categorize chemicals:
- Organic and Inorganic Chemicals: Organic chemicals are compounds that contain carbon atoms, whereas inorganic chemicals are compounds that do not contain carbon atoms. Organic chemicals include a wide variety of substances such as proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. Inorganic chemicals include metals, salts, and minerals.
- Natural and Synthetic Chemicals: Natural chemicals are those that are produced by nature and can be found in living organisms or the environment. Examples include water, minerals, and phytochemicals. Synthetic chemicals, on the other hand, are man-made and are produced through chemical reactions in laboratories or industrial processes. For example, emeramide, a mercury chelator used for treating mercury toxicity, can be found as osr for sale.
- Biochemicals: These are chemicals that are produced by living organisms. They include substances such as hormones, enzymes, and neurotransmitters.
- Petrochemicals: These are chemicals derived from petroleum or natural gas. They include substances such as plastics, synthetic rubber, and synthetic fibers.
- Polymers: These are large molecules made up of repeating subunits called monomers. Examples include plastics, rubber, and proteins.
It is important to note that chemicals can have both beneficial and harmful effects. For example, chemicals are used in medicines that can save lives, but they can also be toxic and cause harm to humans and the environment. Therefore, it is important to handle chemicals responsibly and take necessary precautions when using them.