The development of the concept of chemical substance: a history and implications for chemistry teaching

Abstract

Considering the centrality and importance of the concept of chemical substance, a historical approach is made to the concept of substance and its modifications from Greek antiquity to the current concept of chemical substance. This article addresses the interrelations between the concept of chemical substance and others that are and have been structuring for chemical science. The methodologies used are those of bibliographic research and historical research with the use of primary and secondary sources. The current limitations of the concept were demarcated from the analysis and its implications for the teaching of chemistry are discussed. As conclusions, it is pointed out the need for greater understanding of the process of structuring the concept of chemical substance. Besides, there is need for further research in this direction in order to elaborate new teaching strategies to mitigate the problems of understanding the concept.of chemical substance.