The systematic study of chemistry began with the Egyptians and the ancient Greeks, who were the first to propose the existence of the atom. Attempts to turn base metals into gold were responsible for much of this activity. In modern industrial societies, chemistry is one of the foundations of the economy. Like other sciences, the advancements in chemistry have proven a boon to the world, and have brought with them challenges to overcome. Chemistry is the key to many of the solutions for the problems facing us today.
Biochemistry involves the study of biological processes at a molecular level.
It draws on the techniques of analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry in determining the molecular basis of vital processes. The explosion in medical research in the past few decades has increased interest in biochemistry. The nature of chemistry encompasses the study of every substance. Research ranges from monitoring and removal of pollutants in the environment to the creation of new drugs and products, and onto the theoretical basic research that allows for all other applications. Chemists can be oceanographers or atmospheric scientists, forensic scientists, science writers, art restoration experts, patent lawyers, high school teachers, or winemakers, as well as working in the traditional industries of oil, food, mining, agriculture, and pharmaceutical companies.