Practical chemistry
(gcide) | Chemistry \Chem"is*try\ (k[e^]m"[i^]s*tr[y^]; 277), n. [From
Chemist. See Alchemy.]
1. That branch of science which treats of the composition of
substances, and of the changes which they undergo in
consequence of alterations in the constitution of the
molecules, which depend upon variations of the number,
kind, or mode of arrangement, of the constituent atoms.
These atoms are not assumed to be indivisible, but merely
the finest grade of subdivision hitherto attained.
Chemistry deals with the changes in the composition and
constitution of molecules. See Atom, Molecule.
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Note: Historically, chemistry is an outgrowth of alchemy (or
alchemistry), with which it was anciently identified.
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2. An application of chemical theory and method to the
consideration of some particular subject; as, the
chemistry of iron; the chemistry of indigo.
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3. A treatise on chemistry.
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Note: This word and its derivatives were formerly written
with y, and sometimes with i, instead of e, in the
first syllable, chymistry, chymist, chymical, etc., or
chimistry, chimist, chimical, etc.; and the
pronunciation was conformed to the orthography.
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Inorganic chemistry, that which treats of inorganic or
mineral substances.
Organic chemistry, that which treats of the substances
which form the structure of organized beings and their
products, whether animal or vegetable; -- called also
chemistry of the carbon compounds. There is no
fundamental difference between organic and inorganic
chemistry.
Physiological chemistry, the chemistry of the organs and
tissues of the body, and of the various physiological
processes incident to life.
Practical chemistry, or Applied chemistry, that which
treats of the modes of manufacturing the products of
chemistry that are useful in the arts, of their
applications to economical purposes, and of the conditions
essential to their best use.
Pure chemistry, the consideration of the facts and theories
of chemistry in their purely scientific relations, without
necessary reference to their practical applications or
mere utility.
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