¡¿Cómo?! ¿Química en mi casa?

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/quimica-en-mi-casa

Introduction

### Course Review: ¡¿Cómo?! ¿Química en mi casa? If you’ve ever been curious about the role of chemistry in your everyday life but found the subject intimidating or tedious, the course “¡¿Cómo?! ¿Química en mi casa?” offered by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) is the perfect opportunity to dive into this fascinating world. This engaging online course takes a fresh approach to chemistry, demonstrating its relevance and application in the spaces we inhabit. #### Overview of the Course “¡¿Cómo?! ¿Química en mi casa?” aims to demystify the science of chemistry by showing participants how it is intertwined with our daily routines and surroundings. It provides a comprehensive overview of basic chemical principles through relatable and engaging content that emphasizes that chemistry is not as intimidating or ‘bad’ as it is often portrayed. #### Course Content The syllabus is structured around different areas of the home, making it both accessible and relatable. Each module is designed to answer common questions and misconceptions about chemistry while demonstrating its practical applications: 1. **El baño**: The bathroom serves as more than just a clean space; it’s a hub of chemical activity. This segment explores the chemistry behind soaps and shampoos, illustrating the differences in their formulations. A fascinating discussion of common medications like aspirin and the birth control pill is also included, highlighting their chemical composition and societal impact. 2. **Sala y habitaciones**: The living room is transformed into a chemistry lab as participants learn about the materials that make up their furniture and decor. The course dives into the chemistry behind natural and synthetic fabrics and explains how color and design in textiles are influenced by chemical properties. 3. **La cocina**: Regarded as the heart of the home, the kitchen is described as a giant laboratory where chemical reactions are constantly taking place. The course reveals the chemistry behind the aromas that fill our kitchens and discusses food preservation methods, both traditional and modern, shedding light on how chemistry prolongs the life of our food. 4. **El basurero**: Finally, the course tackles environmental issues by discussing waste management from a chemical perspective. Participants will learn about recycling processes, material recovery, and innovative ways to transform organic waste into energy or fertilizer. It also emphasizes responsible disposal methods for hazardous waste, making this a crucial component of the chemical education offered. #### Recommendation I highly recommend “¡¿Cómo?! ¿Química en mi casa?” for anyone interested in understanding the chemistry that shapes our everyday lives. The course is exceptionally well-structured, making complex concepts easy to grasp. It fosters a greater appreciation for the science that surrounds us, instilling confidence in those who may have previously shied away from the subject. Whether you are a student, a parent, or simply a curious individual, this course offers valuable insights into chemistry's role in health, aesthetics, food, and environmental sustainability. By the end of the course, you will not only have a better understanding of the chemistry involved in your home but also an enhanced appreciation for the subject as a whole. Signing up for this course could very well change the way you perceive and interact with the world around you. So why wait? Enroll in “¡¿Cómo?! ¿Química en mi casa?” today and embark on a captivating journey through the chemistry of your daily life!

Syllabus

El baño

El baño es el lugar más limpio de nuestra casa pero, ¿te has preguntado cómo limpian los jabones?, ¿por qué es distinto el jabón para manos del shampoo para el cabello? Aquí aprenderemos sobre eso y, de pasada, ya que casi siempre el botiquín se encuentra allí, hablaremos un poco de medicamentos, del más popular: la aspirina, así como del de mayor impacto social: la píldora anticonceptiva.

La sala está llena de muebles, cortinas y cuadros coloridos. Es hora de conocer un poco acerca de cómo se componen las distintas telas que utilizamos, desde las naturales hasta las sintéticas. Aquí hablaremos de cómo la química llena nuestro mundo de color, ya sea en recubrimientos protectores, en los estampados de telas, o en las obras de arte que se crean sobre distintas superficies.

Debemos reconocer que la cocina es un enorme laboratorio de química a nuestro servicio. Aquí aprenderemos sobre la manera en que la química genera esos deliciosos aromas que inundan nuestros sentidos cuando cocinamos, independientemente del alimento de que se trate. También hablaremos sobre métodos de conservación antiguos y modernos que nos permiten tener alimentos durante más tiempo, para que lleguen a más personas.

Aquí aprenderemos que hay cosas que la química nos permite hacer para reducir la cantidad de basura que llega a los basureros. Veremos cómo se trabaja el reciclaje y la recuperación de materiales. Conoceremos cómo se puede transformar la basura orgánica en fertilizante o en gas para alimentar cocinas, calderas y calentadores. Por último, veremos qué hacer con residuos como baterías o pesticidas, para ayudar a conservar el medio ambiente.