examples of chemistry in life

Chem 108 Writing assignment # 1 Name_____________________________________

20 points

Instructions: Write 2 separate paragraphs (at least 5 sentences each) on 2 different examples of

chemistry in everyday life. (If you google â€œchemistry in everyday lifeâ€ you will get lots of ideas

to choose from or come up with your own). Describe the role of chemistry in everyday life in

your own words, do not just copy it from the web (It will go through turnitin.com so do not

copy/paste). Include your thoughts, experiences, opinions on the subject and anything you would

like to add. You will be graded partly on spelling/grammar, so I would recommend having a

fellow student or friend look it over before submitting it. (10points each)

Example: I have a saltwater aquarium and it requires a significant amount of work to keep the

salt content, nutrients and dangerous molecules in the right balance. If the salt content is too

high or too low, it will cause the fish to suffer. These hypertonic and hypotonic solutions will

result in the fishâ€™s cells shrinking or swelling causing death. Other nutrients are important for

fish and reef survival such as certain metal ions like calcium. Fish waste products include

ammonia, nitrate and phosphate. These polyatomic ions are not dangerous in low concentrations

however at high concentrations they will interfere with fish survival. To ensure proper survival

of all the organisms in the tank, frequent water changes are performed to dilute out some of the

harmful molecules. Unfortunately, the good molecules get diluted out as well, so the keeper must

be certain to supplement the tank to the appropriate levels. This example of chemistry in

everyday life is easily performed by anyone willing to put in the effort to learn the hobby and

does not require a chemist for an ultimate tank experience.