Chemistry for Beginners

This engaging introduction to chemistry tackles the key concepts and big ideas in a friendly and accessible way. From atoms to molecules, discover the basic building blocks of the universe and find out how chemists use them to create amazing new medicines, materials and more. Follow step-by-step chemical reactions, explore the periodic table and learn all about chemistry's real-life applications from solving crimes to producing green energy. Chapters in this book include: Introduction Find out what chemistry is, and the amazing things chemists have learned to do with it over the centuries. What's the world made of? Discover the basic building blocks of EVERYTHING around you, why they're always changing and how they join together. Journey into an atom The smallest building block - an atom - is itself made of even smaller parts. Keep track of the 118 atoms we know about so far in a handy chart called the periodic table. Making connections Chemistry is all about what happens when atoms connect and make - or break - bonds with each other. Chemical reactions You can't see atoms, but how they behave can be spectacular. This is the fizzy, foamy, explosive world of chemical reactions. See, smell, taste, touch Some chemicals have a taste, smell or even a colour. Others form incredible structures and materials. Together they shape your experience of the world. Your body Chemists are fascinated by how the body works, and what to do when it doesn't - from diagnosing diseases to designing medicines. Keeping us safe What makes a good or bad chemical? Is there even such a thing? Find out about chemists working to keep us safe. Saving the planet The Earth's chemical balance is changing. What can chemists do about it? Space The universe is full of chemical secrets - including how our planet and its inhabitants came to be. What's next? What are some of the most exciting things chemists are working on right now? Might you join them one day?