CHEMICALS

CONTENT

1. Meaning of Chemicals
2. Classification of Chemicals
3. Chemical Safety

Meaning of Chemicals

Chemicals are substances with specific molecular composition.

A chemical can be in form of gas, liquid, or solid. It can also be in simple or complex form. They can be in form of element, compound, and mixtures.

Mercury

Chemical elements are basic substances that are often used to make other products. Mercury is one of the few elements that are liquid at room temperature. This element is poisonous and can be absorbed through the skin.

Classification of Chemicals

Classification Based on Uses

1. Pharmaceutical chemicals
2. Nuclear chemicals
3. Agrochemicals
4. Industrial chemicals and
5. Laboratory chemicals.

1. Pharmaceutical Chemicals: They are chemicals formulated to act as remedy on living cells, they could be herbal or chemical synthesis. They are used for making of drugs. Such as antibiotics, antiseptics etc.

2. Nuclear Chemicals: They are chemicals that function based on the activities within the nucleus. Some of these chemicals can split or disintegrate (decay) through the process of radioactivity. It can be used for positive or negative purpose. E.g. it is used during X-ray.

3. Agrochemical: These are chemicals used for agricultural purposes. Examples are pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and organic manure.