From the cosmetics we use to the medicines we take, understanding the uses of various chemicals is essential for practical applications. It’s also important for academic purposes.
According to iSchoolConnect, out of the 13 most difficult college degrees in the world, at least 3 teach subjects or topics related to chemistry. Many high school students also happen to find chemistry to be a difficult subject.
For students aspiring to excel in chemistry, navigating the intricate world of chemicals might seem extremely difficult at first. However, with the right approach and tools, the journey becomes not only manageable but also exciting.
Here are a few effective ways students can easily learn the uses of various chemicals.
Utilize Educational Apps and Online Simulations
Educational apps and online simulations have become invaluable tools for students seeking to enhance their understanding of chemical applications. Interactive simulations allow students to explore chemical reactions in a virtual environment. This, in turn, provides a safe and accessible way to experiment without the need for a physical laboratory.
Virtual experiments, covering topics from stoichiometry to organic chemistry, enable students to manipulate variables, observe outcomes, and gain a nuanced understanding of chemical processes.
As described by The Conversation, virtual labs are “forgiving.” They are also cost-friendly. Any mistake made during simulations will cause no harm. Plus, there’s an endless supply of virtual chemicals to work with, meaning students can keep on experimenting without having to worry about high costs.
Participate in Chemistry Competitions and Clubs
Joining chemistry clubs or participating in competitions is an excellent way for students to immerse themselves in the world of chemicals. These clubs are full of people who share a passion for chemistry.
Being part of such clubs or communities can help students learn more about chemicals and their various uses. The clubs might also allow students to discuss and explore the practical uses of chemicals through group projects, workshops, and guest lectures.
Besides, chemistry competitions, like chemistry olympiads, can challenge students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems. Engaging in these events not only hones problem-solving skills but also exposes students to diverse chemical applications.
According to the American Chemical Society, the US National Chemistry Olympiad is one of the most popular chemistry competitions for high school students. Registration for this chemistry competition closes this December.
Other popular chemistry competitions include ChemiCo, National Science Bowl, and so on. Similar competitions are also hosted for college students by various organizations as well as chemical and pharmaceutical companies.
Connect Theory with Everyday Life
Understanding the practical uses of various chemicals becomes more accessible when students can relate them to everyday experiences. Teachers and students alike can bridge the gap between theory and application by incorporating real-life examples into classroom discussions. By contextualizing chemical concepts within familiar scenarios, students can grasp the relevance of what they learn in class.
For instance, discussions on the chemistry of cooking ingredients or personal care items can provide practical insights into the uses of specific chemicals. This approach not only makes learning more engaging but also emphasizes the impact of chemistry in daily life.
Collaborate with Industry Professionals
Connecting with professionals in the field offers students a unique perspective on the practical applications of chemicals in various industries. Guest lectures, field trips to laboratories, or virtual sessions with industry experts can provide valuable insights into how theoretical knowledge translates into real-world solutions.
For instance, perchloric acid is used in various industries, but its application is hardly shown in school and college labs. That’s because prolonged or excessive exposure to this acid can cause a severe burning sensation in the eyes. Also, an unsupervised chemical reaction involving this acid can pose explosion hazards. Hence, most educational institutions will only teach students the perchloric acid formula and its uses but not experiment with the acid.
However, according to Proprep, perchloric acid is a strong oxidizing agent that’s used in analytical chemistry. Therefore, if students don’t get to see how it’s used, they’ll be missing out on knowledge that can help them later in their academics.
By engaging with professionals, students can understand the uses of chemicals in specific industries such as pharmaceuticals, environmental science, or materials engineering. Students will also get to see experiments that involve strong and dangerous chemicals or acids like perchloric acid.
Besides, networking opportunities and mentorship programs can further enhance students’ appreciation for the practical implications of chemical knowledge. That, in turn, can inspire them to pursue careers in related fields.
Create Personalized Study Resources
Developing personalized study resources tailored to individual learning styles can significantly aid students in mastering the uses of various chemicals. Interactive notebooks, flashcards, and mind maps allow students to organize information in a way that resonates with their unique cognitive processes.
Students can create visual representations of chemical reactions, annotate practical applications, and make connections between different concepts. The act of synthesizing information in a personalized format reinforces understanding. It also serves as a valuable reference tool during exams and future studies.
In conclusion, understanding the uses of various chemicals is not going to be an easy task. However, following the tips above, students can make the learning process much easier. These tips will also help them get a better grasp of how these chemicals work and why they are so important to us.
