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Chemistry is the study of matter, and all matter is made up of atoms. We will learn about elements, atomic number and mass, isotopes, moles (chemistry moles, not the animal), and compounds. Introduction to the atom. Compounds and ions.

There are five main branches of chemistry, each of which has many areas of study.

• Analytical chemistry: uses qualitative and quantitative observation to identify and measure the physical and chemical properties of substances. In a sense, all chemistry is analytical.  
• Physical chemistry combines chemistry with physics. Physical chemists study how matter and energy interact. Thermodynamics and quantum mechanics are two of the important branches of physical chemistry.
• Organic chemistry specifically studies compounds that contain the element carbon. Carbon has many unique properties that allow it to form complex chemical bonds and very large molecules. Organic chemistry is also known as the “Chemistry of Life” because all of the molecules that make up living tissue have carbon as part of their makeup. 
• Inorganic chemistry studies materials such as metals and gases that do not have carbon as part of their makeup. 
• Biochemistry is the study of chemical processes that occur within living organisms.

 
Fields of study
Within these broad categories are countless fields of study, many of which have important effects on our daily life. Chemists improve many products, from the food we eat and the clothing we wear to the materials with which we build our homes. Chemistry helps to protect our environment and searches for new sources of energy.