Chemistry isn't a subject to be tackled in isolation; it extends into virtually everything we think about, do and study. History, botany, economics, medicine, environmentalism, fashion, transport, entertainment, engineering, the occult, climatology, geology… Pull on the right thread (and there are lots!) and you’ll find it leads back to a topic in chemistry.
Chemistry is also an experimental science so it’s a great way into learning about how to design tests and experiments, and how to interpret and understand the results we get. The chemistry of changing what you eat for breakfast might alter how you feel all day, but should you be looking for a result by 9:30am on day 1…?
“Balance” is another crucial aspect of chemistry; there’s little that’s absolute and a lot that’s comparative. You may think that lead is a dense metal, but compare it with gold and you’ll soon see why that heist movie where the robbers filled their backpacks with gold bars might not have been all that realistic. And you may aspire to pure gold jewellery, but compare the physical properties and you might start to see why 9 carat gold could make a longer-lasting wedding ring.
Lastly, engagement is crucial to any learning; my style of presentation has got to match your preferred method of learning. And the experience has got to be interesting and fun too! It's unlikely that we'll get there in the first 5 minutes but if you're willing to communicate and persevere then we will get there sooner rather than later. But don’t think I’m here to do your homework, write your assignment or complete your dissertation for you. I’m more than happy to shine a light on how you can do that for yourself in an interesting manner, but it’s got to be your own work. And if you find yourself enjoying it then my job is done!