Chemistry is the study of matter.
Chemistry is a science. Science uses the scientific method, which emphasizes the testing of ideas in order to find out if they are true. If an idea/theory/hypothesis is not testable, it is not science.
The literature and resources of the science disciplines are heavily structured around the scientific method. Because science knowledge is based on experimentation and observation, publications of original research are very important. The examination of existing theories and the evaluation of their supporting evidence is very important in the development of new questions to ask and new experiments to perform. If one cannot develop a test for an idea/hypothesis/theory, then it is not a scientific question. When one does develop a test, then it becomes something one can study using science.
Scientific disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, geology, etc. primarily publish in journals, rather than books, websites, etc.
In the sciences, a primary source is the description of a study by the original researchers. These are usually published in research articles in peer-reviewed journals and are very important to the sciences. SOme research may also be published in reports produced by government agencies or professional science organizations.
The publication of research helps distribute ideas and theories to other scientists. The distribution encourages discussion of the ideas therein. This discussion and debate is also very improtant to science, as it discloses modification of ideas and theories and possible areas for new research. The discussion generates new ideas for further research or consideration. The entire process adds to our knowledge of the world. Scientists build on each other's work.
Think! If your topic is in organic chemistry or biochemistry, perhaps the biology databases will have information for you. If your topic is in physical chemistry, check the physics databases. If your topic is health related, check the health databases. If you're investigating the chemical industry, check the business databases, too.
