One of the main functions of the chemist is to rearrange the atoms
of known substances to produce new products. For example, chemists
have developed previously unknown synthetic fibres such as Kevlar,
which has desirable qualitites not found in natural fibres. The
development of plastics such as polyethylene and Teflon has resulted
in the production of many new items previously unavailable because
no natural product could do the job. New alloys and special fuels
allow us to travel in outer space. Chemists have helped to develop
these and thousands of other new and useful products.
Chemistry is involved in almost everything with which we come
in contact. The life processes of all organisms involve chemical
changes. Chemists play a key role in the development of drugs, which
are helping to cure and alleviate diseases and prolong life span.
Chemists are involved in biochemistry and genetic engineering .
For example, there is much interest in producing new bacterial strains,
which can synthesize useful products such as human insulin or interferon.
Chemists are also at the forefront of developing fields such as
nanotechnology. They are actively involved in environmental issues
and are helping to tap new sources of energy to replace the earth's
finite reserves of petroleum.
Our high standard of living depends heavily on the contributions
of chemists to agriculture, manufacturing, new technologies, and
the development of efficient means of transportation and communication.
Thus, with its broad scope, chemistry offers an exciting array of
intellectual adventures and opportunities.
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