What's the relation between chemical compositions and physical properties?

In summary, the conversation discusses the relation between the chemical composition of a material and its physical properties, specifically in the context of sorting recycled materials for a PhD project. The question of whether this is a peering relation or a relation of subordination is raised, and the advantages and specifics of using a new sorting criteria based on chemical composition are considered.
  • #1
xhtp2000
21
0
Dear all, is the relation between chemical composition of a material and its physical properties a peering relation or a relation of subordination?
 
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  • #2
xhtp2000 said:
Dear all, is the relation between chemical composition of a material and its physical properties a peering relation or a relation of subordination?

What are your thoughts on this? Is this for schoolwork?
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
What are your thoughts on this? Is this for schoolwork?

nope, it's about my PhD project, we are now starting sorting of the recycled materials based on chemical composition, the traditional sorting criteria is mostly based on the physical and mechanical properties, I am thinking of the relation of this hierarchy, and wondering why is a new sorting criteria advantageous or specific over others.
 
  • #4
xhtp2000 said:
nope, it's about my PhD project, we are now starting sorting of the recycled materials based on chemical composition, the traditional sorting criteria is mostly based on the physical and mechanical properties, I am thinking of the relation of this hierarchy, and wondering why is a new sorting criteria advantageous or specific over others.

Okay, I've got it now. PhD work has nothing to do with school. Check.

Can you post your outline for your PhD work?
 
  • #5

I can say that the relationship between chemical composition and physical properties is a complex and multifaceted one. It is not a simple peering or subordinate relationship, but rather a dynamic interplay between the two.

The chemical composition of a material refers to the types and amounts of elements present in the material. These elements can interact with each other in various ways, forming chemical bonds and structures that ultimately determine the physical properties of the material.

For example, the presence of carbon atoms can give a material strength and hardness, while the presence of hydrogen atoms can make it more flexible and pliable. The arrangement of atoms in a material also plays a crucial role in determining its physical properties, such as density, melting point, and conductivity.

Additionally, changes in the chemical composition of a material can result in significant changes in its physical properties. For instance, altering the amount of carbon in iron can transform it from a soft metal to a strong and durable one, as seen in the production of steel.

On the other hand, the physical properties of a material can also influence its chemical composition. For example, exposure to high temperatures can cause chemical reactions to occur, leading to changes in the material's composition.

In summary, the relationship between chemical composition and physical properties is a complex and intertwined one. Both aspects are essential in understanding and predicting the behavior of materials, and they cannot be considered separately.
 

1. What is the definition of chemical composition?

Chemical composition refers to the types and amounts of elements that make up a substance. It is the ratio of elements in a substance that determine its chemical properties.

2. How does chemical composition affect physical properties?

The chemical composition of a substance determines its physical properties, such as melting point, boiling point, density, and color. This is because the arrangement and strength of chemical bonds between elements affect how the substance interacts with its environment.

3. What are some examples of how chemical composition and physical properties are related?

One example is how the ratio of carbon and hydrogen in a molecule determines whether a substance is a gas, liquid, or solid at room temperature. Another example is how the presence of certain elements in a compound can make it more or less reactive with other substances.

4. Can different substances have the same chemical composition and different physical properties?

Yes, substances with the same chemical composition can have different physical properties if they have different arrangements of atoms or different types of bonds between them. For example, carbon can exist as diamond, graphite, or coal, all with different physical properties despite having the same chemical composition.

5. How do scientists determine the relationship between chemical composition and physical properties?

Scientists use various techniques such as spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, and chromatography to analyze the chemical composition of a substance and observe its physical properties. They can also conduct experiments to study how changes in chemical composition affect physical properties.

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