Chemistry in Action: Pasteur's Discoveries, Household Products, and Safety Regulations

A complete set of vocabulary flashcards covering Louis Pasteur's microbiology contributions, active and inactive chemical ingredients in household and personal care items, toxicological profiles of home chemicals, and Philippine regulatory bodies.

Louis Pasteur

A French chemist and microbiologist who demonstrated that microorganisms cause diseases and food spoilage, developed vaccines for rabies and anthrax, and introduced pasteurization.

Germ Theory

The scientific theory stating that many diseases are caused by microorganisms (germs) such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.

Swan-Neck Flask Experiment

An experiment conducted by Louis Pasteur using boiled nutrient broth in flasks with curved necks, proving that microbes originate from existing microbes rather than spontaneous generation.

Pasteurization

A heat-treatment process that destroys harmful microorganisms in liquids like milk and fruit juices without significantly affecting taste or quality.

HTST Pasteurization

High-Temperature Short-Time pasteurization, where liquid is heated to $72^\text{C}$ ($161^\text{F}$) for $15_text{seconds}$ and then rapidly cooled.

LTLT Pasteurization

Low-Temperature Long-Time pasteurization, where liquid is heated to $63^\text{C}$ ($145^\text{F}$) for $30_text{minutes}$.

UHT Pasteurization

Ultra-High Temperature pasteurization, where liquid is heated to $135{-}150^\text{C}$ ($275{-}302^\text{F}$) for $1{-}2_text{seconds}$ to allow longer shelf life.

Active Ingredients

Substances in consumer products that directly accomplish the performance objectives of the product.

Inactive Ingredients

Components in a product that constitute a large percentage of its volume without directly performing the active function, such as solvents and fragrances.

Organic Solvents

Carbon-based compounds capable of dissolving other substances, widely used in industrial processes and household products.

Sulfate

A polyatomic ion with the chemical formula $\text{SO}_4^{2-}$ composed of one sulfur atom and four oxygen atoms with a $-2$ charge, serving as a surfactant and foaming agent in cleaning products.

Surfactants

Detergent components, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, that reduce the surface tension of water to lift dirt, grease, and oil.

Protease

An enzyme ingredient added to laundry detergents to break down specific protein-based stains.

Builders

Detergent additives, such as sodium carbonate, that soften water and boost cleaning efficiency.

Optical Brighteners

Also known as fluorescent whitening agents (FWAs), these are detergent ingredients that make fabrics appear whiter.

Sodium Fluoride

A compound with the chemical formula $\text{NaF}$ present in toothpaste that provides fluoride ions ($\text{F}^-$) to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

Acetic Acid

A weak organic acid with the chemical formula $\text{CH}_3\text{COOH}$ that serves as the main constituent of vinegar.

Parabens

Preservatives added to cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, and pharmaceuticals to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life.

Muriatic Acid

The commercial name for a solution of hydrochloric acid ($\text{HCl}$), a strong and highly corrosive inorganic acid used for heavy cleaning.

Silica

A compound made of finely ground quartz ($\text{SiO}_2$) used as an abrasive in toothpastes and cleaners; acts as a carcinogen if inhaled.

Toluene

An organic solvent with the chemical formula $\text{C}_7\text{H}_8$ derived from Myroxylon balsamum, used in paint thinners and polishes, which can cause harm to developing fetuses.

Lye

Sodium hydroxide ($\text{NaOH}$), a compound derived from hardwood ashes used in soaps and drain cleaners, which severely damages the esophagus and stomach if ingested.

Formaldehyde

An organic compound ($\text{CH}_2\text{O}$) produced by the catalytic oxidation of methanol, used in perfumes and disinfectants, which causes irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

The Philippine government agency that oversees consumer product quality, fair selling, and product safety under Republic Act No. 7394 (Consumer Act of the Philippines).

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The Philippine regulatory agency responsible for evaluating product formulation, registration, health safety, and chemical hazard labeling under GHS for food, drugs, and cosmetics.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

The Philippine government agency responsible for waste handling, pollution control, and hazardous waste disposal under laws such as RA 6969 and RA 9003.

Toxic Hazard

A chemical hazard category indicating that a substance can cause serious harm or death if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.

Corrosive Hazard

A chemical hazard classification indicating that a substance can cause severe skin burns, eye damage, or corrosion to metals.