Quantum chemistry aims to push the boundaries of traditional chemistry and provide new information that can be used in the understanding and design of systems at the microscopic level.
The energy levels and orbitals of electrons determine chemical bonds and molecular geometry. Today, quantum computers offer potential advantages in atomic-level computations and manipulations.
Basic concepts of quantum chemistry:
Subatomic Particles
Atomic Formation
Formation of Molecules from Atoms
Wave-Particle Duality
Wave Functions and Probability Density
Schrödinger Equation
- Molecular Structure and Bonds
Spectroscopy
Chemical Reactions
Quantum Computers
A report published by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2016 reveals that indoor air, such as that in homes and workplaces, is 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. The main causes of this pollution are insufficient ventilation, the burning of candles containing toxic substances, and odors and chemicals in the air from detergents used for household cleaning. The detergents you use for cleaning don't just pollute the air in your home. The residues from these detergents pass through your sink and drainpipes, mix with the water, and harm many species, especially marine creatures, as part of their life cycle. The effects of these substances, present in almost all common detergents, on the environment are as follows:
SLES
This substance, known as sodium laureth sulfate, is widely used in soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, and household cleaning products. It facilitates foaming in cosmetics and cleaning products. It has been proven that, when mixed with water, it is toxic to fish and other marine creatures.
Phosphate
Phosphate, which is also used as a nutrient in fertilizers, increases the concentration of nitrogen and phosphate in water when mixed with seawater. This causes plants such as algae to grow much faster than normal, thereby reducing dissolved oxygen and creating an inhospitable environment for other marine creatures.
Chlorine
Chlorine, used as a bleach in detergents and bleaches, is a serious environmental threat. This substance, which was also used as a chemical weapon in World War I, has been banned or restricted in many countries to protect the environment and human health. When used in the home, chlorine reacts with moisture in the respiratory tract, larynx, throat, and lungs, causing an acidic effect. Chlorine, when mixed with water as waste, interacts with other elements and minerals, generating dangerous toxic substances.
These substances resulting from this interaction, known as dioxins, furans, and PCDDs, are called "persistent organic pollutants" because they do not degrade in soil or water and persist for many years. Greenpeace classifies dioxin, which causes diseases such as cancer and endocrine disorders, as one of the most dangerous chemicals known to science. Since the effects of even a small amount of chlorine mixed with air or water persist for many years, this compound can easily reach soil and marine organisms, posing a threat to human life by easily entering the food chain.