Science Education

There are so many different sciences that it’s sometimes hard to tell them apart. This article breaks the sciences down into two types: chemistry and biochemistry. Here, we will define chemistry, biochemistry, note their similarities, and compare their differences.

What is Chemistry?

Chemistry is the study of matter and the changes that matter can undergo in different environments. Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space and it can undergo changes when it is exposed to different conditions and environments. Chemistry involves the properties of matter and seeks to understand how and why matter undergoes these changes.

Chemistry involves everything around us because everything that exists can be broken down into chemical elements which are made up of single atoms. Each chemical is made up of a certain number of protons, electrons, and neutrons. The chemical elements bond together to form chemical compounds and the compounds bond with other compounds to form other substances. Therefore, chemistry involves the properties of and interactions between physical substances.

What is Biochemistry?

Biochemistry combines chemistry and biology. This branch of science explores chemical processes and how they relate to living organisms. Biochemistry focuses on the cellular and molecular levels and what is going on inside of cells by studying organelles, lipids, and proteins. It also focuses on how cells communicate with each other and how molecules interact.

On the cellular level, biochemistry involves the study of cells or the make-up of living organisms. On the molecular level, biochemistry deals with the changes taking place within the living cells. It seeks to understand the complex chemical reactions that take place in various life forms.

Is chemistry similar to biochemistry?

While chemistry is similar to biochemistry, there are some significant differences. Both chemistry and biochemistry deal with the properties of matter, however, biochemistry is only concerned with the properties of matter as they relate to living organisms. Therefore, the biggest difference between the two is that biochemistry deals with living organisms while chemistry studies the living and nonliving.

Chemistry is a broader field and biochemistry tends to be more focused. A chemist studies the properties of materials. A biochemist studies the processes that take place within living organisms and why those processes happen. For example, biochemistry takes the biological process and explores the causes of disease in humans, plants, and animals.

Both chemistry and biochemistry share a deep foundation in organic chemistry. Chemistry is more a mix of inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry. In biochemistry, the main focus is on molecular biology.

Is biochemistry harder than chemistry?

Most students don’t perceive biochemistry as being harder than chemistry. The reason being is that there is a lot less math in biochemistry and it’s easier to conceptualize than chemistry. Chemistry involves more problem solving and calculations. The hardest part of biochemistry is memorizing the Kreb cycle and glycolysis.

Can a biochemist become a doctor?

It is a logical path for a biochemist to become a doctor. After all, a biochemist must have a deep understanding of the biological process and often studies the causes of diseases in humans. Students who go on to med school generally major in chemistry, biology, or biochemistry.

Which is better: chemistry or biochemistry?

All sciences serve their own purpose and are all equally as important. Therefore, neither chemistry or biochemistry is better than the other. Historically, chemistry was the most well-known field among industries. However, with the evolution of DNA studies, biochemistry has gained a lot of ground over the years.

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