Definition: Chemical engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the study, design, and application of processes for producing chemical products. It includes fields such as chemistry, materials science, and physics.
The term "chemical engineering" originates from the German word "Chemie," which means "chemistry." However, it has evolved to include various disciplines and subfields within chemical engineering that focus on a wide range of chemical processes and applications.
A key characteristic of chemical engineering is its interdisciplinary nature. It combines knowledge from several fields, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, economics, sociology, and management with the goal of creating innovative solutions to complex problems related to chemical production, purification, and recycling.
Some examples of chemical engineering disciplines include:
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Chemical Engineering
: The study of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of materials.
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Environmental Engineering
: The application of engineering principles in environmental systems, including air, water, soil, and land use.
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Petroleum Engineering
: The engineering of oil fields and refining processes.
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Biotechnology Engineering
: The development of bio-based materials, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnologies.
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Materials Science
: The study of the properties and behavior of materials, with a focus on their production, processing, and use in various industries.
In summary, chemical engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines knowledge from multiple fields to develop innovative solutions for chemical processes. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines within chemistry, material science, and physics, making it one of the most dynamic and evolving areas of engineering.