C7.1 The chemical industry

Question 1

1. What do the terms ‘bulk’ and ‘fine’ mean in the context of the chemical industry?

Answer 1

• bulk chemicals are made on a large scale

- fine chemicals are produced on a smaller scale

Question 2

2. What are some examples of chemicals made on a large scale?

Answer 2

-ammonia, sulfuric acid, sodium hydroxide, phosphoric acid

Question 3

2. What are some examples of chemicals made on a small scale?

Answer 3

-drugs, food additives, fragrances

Question 4

3. What are examples of the work done by people who make chemicals?

Answer 4

• testing from trial and error
• computer models
• designing the manufacture (so efficient, safe, cost effective)
• measuring environmental risks

Question 5

4. What does the development of new chemical products or processes require?

Answer 5

• an extensive programme of research and development

- for example, catalysts for new processes

Question 6

5. Who controls chemical processes?

Answer 6

-governments have strict regulations to control chemical processes as well as the storage and transport of chemicals to protect people and the environment