Prepared By: [SAROJINI SWAIN]

Class: [12-C]

School: [DR ANK DAV PUBLIC

SCHOOL]

Session: 2024-2025
CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that [SAROJINI SWAIN], a

student of Class [XII], Roll No. [
],
of [DR ANK DAV PUBLIC SCHOOL], has
successfully completed the chemistry project
titled
' Study of chemicals used in daily life'

for the academic session 2024-2025.

The project work has been carried out under the
supervision and guidance of [ANNAPURNA
SARANGI MAM]
and is based on real data collected from
experiments conducted in the laboratory. The
analysis
represents the original work of the student.

Teacher's Signature: ______________________

Student’s Signature: ______________________
Date: ___________________
Acknowledgement

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who

contributed to the successful completion of this project, “Study of
Chemicals Used In Daily Life.”

First, I am deeply thankful to my chemistry teacher

[ANNAPURNA SARANGI MAM], for their constant
guidance, encouragement, and expert advice throughout the
project. Your support in explaining the theoretical and experimental
concepts, as well as your patience in clarifying my doubts, made
this project possible. The knowledge and insights I gained under
your supervision have been invaluable.

I would also like to thank [DR ANK DAV PUBLIC

SCHOOL] for providing me with the necessary resources,
including access to the laboratory and the required apparatus,
which allowed me to conduct the experiments effectively. I
appreciate the help of the laboratory staff for their assistance in
setting up the experiments and ensuring the availability of the
equipment.

Additionally, I am grateful to my classmates and friends who

offered their suggestions and support during the project. Their
input and collaborative discussions helped me refine my approach
and improve the quality of my work.

Introduction
Chemicals play an indispensable role in modern life, appearing in
everything from the food we consume to the products we use for
personal hygiene and cleaning. These chemicals enhance
convenience, safety, and productivity, but understanding their
characteristics, uses, and potential dangers is crucial for maintaining
both personal health and environmental safety. This document
explores various categories of chemicals that are commonly found in
daily life, analyzing their purposes, benefits, and risks.

1. Chemicals in Household Cleaning Products

Sodium Hypochlorite (Bleach)

Bleach is one of the most common household chemicals, primarily
composed of sodium hypochlorite. It is a powerful disinfectant used
for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces, killing bacteria, viruses, and
fungi. Bleach is especially effective in bathrooms and kitchens but
must be used cautiously due to its toxic nature. Prolonged exposure
to bleach fumes can cause respiratory problems and skin irritation.

Ammonia
Ammonia is a widely used cleaning agent known for its ability to
remove tough grime, dirt, and stains. It is found in glass cleaners,
floor cleaners, and multi-purpose cleaning products. However,
inhaling ammonia can irritate the lungs and eyes, and it should never
be mixed with bleach, as this combination produces toxic chloramine
gas.

Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate)

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is an essential
household chemical with a variety of cleaning uses. It acts as a mild
abrasive cleaner that can polish surfaces without scratching them. In
addition to cleaning, baking soda is also a deodorizer, neutralizing
odors in refrigerators, carpets, and shoes. It is a non-toxic and
environmentally friendly cleaning alternative.

2. Chemicals in Food and Beverages

Sodium Benzoate (Preservative)

Sodium benzoate is a widely used preservative found in
processed foods, beverages, and condiments. It helps
prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and some bacteria,
extending the shelf life of products. While generally
regarded as safe in small quantities, excessive consumption
of sodium benzoate has been linked to hyperactivity in
children and may contribute to certain health concerns
when combined with other chemicals.
Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
MSG is a flavor enhancer commonly added to savory foods
like soups, snacks, and processed meats. It enhances the
umami taste, making food more flavorful. Though MSG is
generally considered safe, some individuals report
sensitivity to MSG, leading to symptoms such as headaches,
sweating, and chest pain—known as 'Chinese Restaurant
Syndrome.'
Aspartame (Artificial Sweetener)
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener used in diet sodas,
sugar-free gums, and low-calorie foods. It is about 200 times
sweeter than sugar, allowing for lower calorie consumption.
Despite its approval by health authorities worldwide,
controversies exist regarding its safety, as some studies
suggest links to neurological issues and metabolic problems

3. Chemicals in Personal Care Products

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

SLS is a common ingredient in shampoos, toothpaste, and
soaps, known for its foaming and cleansing properties. It
works by breaking down oils, allowing water to rinse away
dirt and grease. However, prolonged exposure to SLS can
cause skin irritation and dryness, especially in individuals
with sensitive skin.
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used in cosmetics, lotions, and
hair products to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and
fungi. Despite their widespread use, parabens have been
associated with hormone disruption and potential risks to
reproductive health. Due to these concerns, many companies
are now offering paraben-free alternatives.
Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used in personal care
products such as perfumes, nail polish, and lotions. They
enhance the longevity of fragrances and improve product
texture. However, phthalates have been linked to hormone
disruption, reproductive toxicity, and developmental issues
in children.

4. Chemicals in Medicines and Health Products

Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid)

Aspirin is one of the most commonly used over-the-counter
drugs, known for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory
properties. It is used to treat headaches, muscle pain, and
fevers, as well as to reduce the risk of heart attacks and
strokes. Long-term use of aspirin, however, can lead to
gastrointestinal bleeding and other complications.
Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
Acetaminophen, or paracetamol, is a widely used pain
reliever and fever reducer found in many over-the-counter
medications. While generally safe when taken in
recommended doses, excessive consumption of
acetaminophen can lead to liver damage, especially when
combined with alcohol.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It is commonly
used for conditions like arthritis, menstrual cramps, and
minor injuries. However, prolonged use of ibuprofen can
increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and kidney
damage.

5. Chemicals in Plastics and Packaging

Polyethylene
Polyethylene is the most common plastic used in products
such as plastic bags, bottles, and containers. It is lightweight,
durable, and inexpensive to produce, making it a staple in
everyday life. However, polyethylene is not biodegradable,
contributing to environmental pollution and plastic waste
accumulation.
Polypropylene
Polypropylene is a versatile plastic used in food packaging,
textiles, automotive parts, and consumer goods. It is known
for its toughness and resistance to chemicals, making it ideal
for containers that need to withstand high temperatures.
Like polyethylene, polypropylene is a significant contributor
to plastic pollution.
Bisphenol A (BPA)
BPA is a chemical used in the production of polycarbonate
plastics and epoxy resins. It is commonly found in water
bottles, food containers, and the lining of canned foods.
Exposure to BPA has been linked to hormonal imbalances,
reproductive harm, and developmental issues in children.
Many manufacturers have switched to BPA-free alternatives.

6. Environmental Impact of Daily Use Chemicals

The widespread use of chemicals in daily life has significant

environmental consequences. Household chemicals, plastics,
and personal care products often contain non-biodegradable
substances that persist in ecosystems, contributing to
pollution and endangering wildlife. Chemicals like
phosphates from detergents can enter waterways, causing
algal blooms that disrupt aquatic ecosystems.

7. Chemicals in Beauty Products

Beauty products are a major part of daily life for many people, and
they contain a wide range of chemicals that provide benefits like
hydration, coverage, and fragrance. However, some of these
chemicals come with potential risks.

Sulfates
Sulfates, including sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth
sulfate (SLES), are commonly found in shampoos, body washes, and
facial cleansers. They create a rich lather and help remove dirt and oil
from the skin and hair. However, sulfates can also strip away natural
oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and scalp issues in some
individuals, especially those with sensitive skin.

Parabens
Parabens are a class of preservatives used to prevent the growth of
bacteria and mold in cosmetics, moisturizers, and makeup products.
They include methylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben.
Although parabens are effective at extending the shelf life of beauty
products, studies suggest that they may interfere with hormone
regulation by mimicking estrogen, potentially contributing to
reproductive and hormonal issues. This has led to a growing demand
for paraben-free beauty products.

Phthalates
Phthalates are used in a variety of beauty products, including
perfumes, hair sprays, and nail polishes, to make fragrances last
longer and improve flexibility in nail polish. However, phthalates are
known endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with
the body’s hormone system. Exposure to high levels of phthalates has
been linked to reproductive toxicity, and some countries have
banned their use in beauty products.

Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents

Formaldehyde is a preservative and disinfectant used in nail polishes,
hair treatments (like keratin straightening treatments), and some
eyelash glues. Formaldehyde-releasing agents, such as quaternium-
15 and DMDM hydantoin, slowly release formaldehyde to prevent
bacterial growth in products. Formaldehyde is classified as a human
carcinogen, and prolonged exposure to it may increase the risk of
certain cancers. As a result, some companies have replaced it with
safer alternatives.

Retinoids
Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, are widely used in anti-aging and
acne treatments due to their ability to promote skin cell turnover and
boost collagen production. The most common retinoids include
retinol and tretinoin. While highly effective for skin rejuvenation,
retinoids can cause dryness, peeling, and sun sensitivity, especially
when used in high concentrations or without adequate sun
protection.

Conclusion
The study of chemicals used in daily life reveals the extent to which
we rely on chemical compounds across various aspects of our
routine, including food, beverages, cosmetics, cleaning products,
and medicines. Each chemical serves a specific purpose, such as
preservatives prolonging shelf life, surfactants enabling effective
cleaning, or active compounds in cosmetics improving skin health.
However, while these chemicals provide convenience and enhance
product efficiency, their improper use or overexposure can lead to
potential health risks. High sugar content in beverages, harmful
preservatives in food, or harsh chemicals in cleaning products and
cosmetics may contribute to long-term health issues if not
carefully regulated.

This research emphasizes the critical role of safety regulations and

compliance with standards set by governing bodies such as the
FDA or BIS to ensure consumer well-being. It also underlines the
importance of accurate labelling, helping consumers make
informed decisions. Monitoring chemical composition is not just
about safety but also about sustainability, as newer, eco-friendly
alternatives are being developed to replace toxic compounds.

Through this study, we understand the need for continuous

scientific advancements and increased public awareness regarding
the use and impact of chemicals. Future research can focus on
finding safer substitutes, improving product formulations, and
enhancing testing methods. Ultimately, the goal is to strike a
balance between the benefits provided by these chemicals and the
potential risks, ensuring a safer, healthier lifestyle for consumers.