kimia

Kimia, known in English as chemistry, is the science that studies matter, its properties, composition, structure, and the changes it undergoes. It seeks to understand how substances interact, transform through chemical reactions, and how energy is exchanged during these processes. Chemistry connects with physics, biology, medicine, environmental science, and materials engineering.

Traditionally, chemistry is divided into several main branches: inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, and biochemistry. Additional areas include materials chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and theoretical chemistry. Each branch applies specific methods to explore substances and reactions at different scales, from atoms and molecules to macroscopic systems.

Key concepts include atoms, elements, molecules, chemical bonds, stoichiometry, thermodynamics, kinetics, equilibrium, and spectroscopy. Quantum chemistry and computational modeling describe the behavior of matter at the smallest scales. Chemists use experimental methods to synthesize compounds, characterize materials, and analyze compositions, often employing techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography, and microscopy.

Chemistry emerged from alchemy and developed into a modern science in the 18th and 19th centuries, with milestones such as the law of conservation of mass, the periodic table, and the discovery of radioactivity. Today, chemistry underpins drug development, energy storage, environmental monitoring, agriculture, and the design of new materials.

Safety and ethics are integral to chemical practice, including proper handling of hazardous substances, waste management, and risk assessment. Chemistry education typically covers laboratory skills, data analysis, and critical thinking, preparing students to contribute to science and industry.