Q&A for How to Get Started in Chemistry

You will have to determine this for yourself. Pick an area you are interested and start studying it to see if you would like to do it.

Although a potential doctor can have an undergraduate degree in any field, it's wise to study topics such as anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, and math, plus other college courses necessary for a degree, such as English and foreign languages. Other common courses are physics and related science classes.

The most useful branch would be biochemistry, as it focuses on the chemical processes in living organisms. You will learn about protein structure, enzymes and their involvement in metabolic pathways, as well. For example, antibodies and the immune system - which are all important in medical school. But it is not mandatory to choose biochemistry! Decide for the branch of chemistry that you like most - they will all help you in medical school.

Biochemistry will definitely help, and it will help you to get to grips with how different drugs and dosages affect the body. However, all chemistry will be useful going into medicine/nursing.

See Become a Pharmacist .

Esters. Focus on esters and carbon compounds made from esters. Esters are sweet smelling compounds.

Of course! It's possible for anyone to learn chemistry. If you want to study casually, take short online courses via the Open University or FutureLearn (many of which are free). You can also apply to a university to learn it at degree level if you have the qualifications.

There are basic chemistry books available, and you can also find resources online.

Many chemistry majors become pharmacists, which is why they are sometimes called chemists in other countries.

Metals are elements that conduct heat and electricity well, have luster, and can be shaped easily, like copper or iron. Nonmetals are poor conductors of heat and electricity, lack metallic luster, and can be brittle, like oxygen or sulfur. Metalloids have properties in between metals and nonmetals, such as semiconductivity, like silicon or germanium.

To learn to solve formulas in chemistry, grasp fundamental concepts like atomic structure, chemical bonding, and stoichiometry. Practice regularly with problems from textbooks or online resources. Seek guidance from textbooks, online tutorials, or your instructor for help with specific concepts. Utilize tools like periodic tables and calculators, and break down complex problems into simpler steps using logical reasoning.

If you're studying nursing, focus on understanding how chemicals interact in living organisms, including biochemistry, organic chemistry, and basic inorganic chemistry. These areas are particularly relevant for understanding medications, bodily functions, and patient care.