Chemistry and Chemical Safety Overview

CHEMISTRY AND CHEMICAL SAFETY

• Definition of Chemistry: Study of matter, its properties, and changes.

• Importance: Necessary for choosing products safely in beauty and wellness.

BASICS OF CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

• Matter: Occupies space, has mass; can be observed.

• Elements: 118 known, 98 naturally occurring; identified by symbols.

• Atoms: Composed of protons (+), neutrons (0), electrons (-).

• Molecules: Combinations of two or more atoms (elemental or compound).

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

• Physical Properties: Can be observed without chemical changes (color, odor).

• Chemical Properties: Observed during chemical reactions; change in identity.

• Physical Change: Change in form, not identity.

• Chemical Change: Change in composition (e.g., rusting, burning).

SOLUTIONS, SUSPENSIONS, AND EMULSIONS

• Solutions: Homogeneous mixtures (e.g., saltwater).

• Suspensions: Particles suspended in liquid (e.g., muddy water).

• Emulsions: Mixtures of immiscible liquids (oil-in-water or water-in-oil).

  • Surfactants: Help mix these liquids, consist of lipophilic tails and hydrophilic heads.

pH AND IONIZATION

• pH Scale: Measures hydrogen ion concentration; ranges from 0-14.

• Acids: pH < 7; produce H+ ions.

• Alkalis (Bases): pH > 7; produce OH- ions.

• Neutralization Reaction: H+ + OH- → H2O.

REDOX REACTIONS

• Definition: Reactions where oxidation and reduction occur simultaneously.

  • Oxidation: Loss of electrons (or gain of oxygen).

  • Reduction: Gain of electrons (or loss of oxygen).

CHEMICAL SAFETY

• Key Practices: Follow labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

• Hazards: Understand risks, proper storage, and mixing protocols.

• SDS Categories: Identification, hazards, first-aid, handling/storage, and toxicity information.

• Chemical Ingredients: Commonly used in beauty products (e.g., ammonia, glycerin).

• Precautions: Use protective gear and good ventilation; avoid mixing incompatible chemicals.