Grab your lab coats! We’re celebrating all things chemistry!

Chemistry is the science of properties, composition, and structure of substances — that is, elements and compounds — their transformations, and the energy that is released or absorbed in the process. 

In short, chemistry is everywhere and in everything! From the air we breathe to the foods we eat to the clothes we wear. Even our bodies use chemistry. When you’re feeling happy or sad, your brain is really undergoing chemical reactions. Chemical reactions also break down food in our stomachs for digestion. 

While chemistry is everywhere in nature, it is also used by scientists to create all kinds of things. Chemicals made by chemists are used to make paint, detergents, soaps, toothpaste, shampoos, and medicine — the list goes on and on. Even engineers use chemistry. How else would they know what kinds of materials to use in different electronics? 

It’s hard to say just how big an impact chemistry has had on our lives. Over the last century, chemistry has been used to make life-saving drugs, sustainable food systems, safe drinking water, more durable and effective products and textiles, and much, much more.

National Chemistry Week, founded by the American Chemical Society (ACS), is an annual event that celebrates the contributions of chemistry and its importance to our everyday lives. 

You won’t want to miss this year’s theme: “Sticking with Chemistry.” Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, most events will be virtual. To celebrate, check out these free webinars and virtual events on the ACS website. Also check out IEEE TryEngineering’s free virtual events to learn about our lesson plans and hear from STEM industry experts!