Chemistry at Home

Vocabulary/new concepts:

Chemical substance – a chemical substance is a material with a definite and constant chemical structure. This means it is made up of the same atoms or molecules and behaves the same way in different situations.

Can we imagine modern life without chemistry?

The answer is absolutely NOT!

How will we take care of ourselves and our home if we don’t have soap, shampoo, cleaning products, various adhesives, plastics, and many other products we use daily?

What about food, medicine, clothing, fuel, and electronics?

Everything that surrounds us in our daily lives is due to one “magic” – chemistry.

It plays an important role in the world we know—it is all around us. It makes our lives cleaner, protects our skin, makes us healthier and more beautiful, makes the roads safer, provides cleaner food and water, protects furniture and cars from some damage, allows plastic, metal, and glass waste to be recycled, creates innovative technologies for a green living environment, and more.

What does “chemical” mean?

It is a material with a definite and permanent chemical structure. This means that each chemical has its own unique composition, structure, properties, and behaviour. In different situations, however, the same chemical can react differently.

Chemicals are all around us. They are in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. They are also used to make many products we use daily, such as plastics, medicines, and fertilisers.

Some chemicals improve our quality of life, make everyday life easier, and spark innovation. For example, they are used to make vaccines, disinfectants, pesticides, clothes and shoes, furniture, electronics, and cars.

Others can be harmful if not handled properly. For example, some chemicals can be poisonous if ingested, and others can cause headaches, skin irritation, allergies, or respiratory problems. They can pollute the environment and harm plants and animals.

There are many hazardous chemicals commonly found in our homes. They are part of the products we use every day—cleaners, air fresheners, and objects.

Here are some of the most common:

• Aerosol cans contain pressurised gases that can be released if the can is punctured or heated. These gases can be harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
• Nail polish and nail polish remover contain harmful chemicals such as acetone and toluene. These chemicals can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
• Many cleaning products contain harmful chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, and acids. These chemicals can cause burns, respiratory problems, and poisoning if not used properly.
• Pesticides are used to kill insects, rodents, and other pests. However, they can be harmful to people if they are not used properly. Pesticides can cause poisoning, skin irritation, and respiratory problems.
• Automotive products, such as antifreeze, brake fluid, and gasoline, contain harmful chemicals. These chemicals can cause burns, poisoning, and respiratory problems if not used properly.
• Miscellaneous items: Many other miscellaneous items contain harmful chemicals, such as batteries, mercury thermometers, and fluorescent light bulbs. These items should be handled with care and disposed of properly.

How should hazardous chemicals be stored?

All hazardous chemicals must be stored in a safe place out of reach of children and pets. Labels should also be read carefully, and instructions for safe use should be followed. If you have questions about the safety of a chemical, you should contact the manufacturer or your local poison control centre.

Here are some tips for safely storing hazardous chemicals:

• Store them in a cool, dry place.
• Store them in their original containers.
• Label packages clearly with the name of the chemical and its associated hazards (many packages already have this per se).
• Store them in a locked cabinet or room.
• Dispose of them properly when empty or no longer needed.

By following these tips, you can protect your family from the dangers of hazardous chemicals. Even dish detergent can be dangerous if someone ingests it.

A few tips for safely handling hazardous substances:

• Read the label. Before using any hazardous substance, read the label carefully. The label will tell you the name of the substance, the dangers associated with it, and how to handle it safely.
• Wear protective clothing. When handling hazardous substances, always wear protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator. This will help protect you from exposure to the substance.
• Store hazardous substances properly. Store hazardous substances in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Make sure packages are properly labeled and sealed.
• Use hazardous substances in a well-ventilated area. When using hazardous substances, always use them in a well-ventilated area. This will help prevent the substance from building up fumes and causing harm.
• Avoid mixing hazardous substances. Unless you are sure that mixing two substances is safe, avoid mixing them. Mixing hazardous substances can sometimes cause dangerous reactions.
• Dispose of hazardous substances properly. Make sure to properly dispose of the dangerous material after using it. Never flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain. Hazardous materials must be disposed of in specific ways.

Conclusion:

As we can see, to safely use the many chemicals we keep in our homes, more care is needed than usual. Although we use them regularly, they are made of dangerous chemicals that could otherwise harm us. We should always be careful, and if something bad happens, we should consult a doctor immediately. Keep in mind that not all chemicals are bad. Some are vital to our overall health and welfare. It’s critical to understand the possible dangers and take precautions against utilising items that contain dangerous substances.