Chemistry and the Trail to Eagle
Chemistry is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Chemistry Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Chemistry. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Do EACH of the following:
- a.Describe three examples of safety equipment used in a chemistry laboratory.
- b.Describe what a safety data sheet (SDS) is and tell why it is used.
- c.Obtain an SDS for both a laundry detergent and bleach. Compare the safety information.
- d.Discuss the safe storage of chemicals.
- 2
Demonstrate or observe a chemical reaction. Explain the difference between a chemical reaction and a physical change.
- 3
Make a collection of 20 or more different items that represent things chemistry has helped to produce or improve.
- 4
Do EACH of the following:
- a.Explain what an element, compound, and mixture are. Give an example of each.
- b.Tell what a chemical reaction is.
- c.Explain the difference between an acid, a base, and a salt.
- 5
Do ONE of the following: do a hands-on activity involving chemistry, or identify five different chemical specialties.
- 6
Find out about three career opportunities in chemistry.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Chemistry Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Chemistry, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Chemistry is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a challenging badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 13 Chemistry requirements for you.
Chemistry Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Chemistry merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Chemistry is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Chemistry merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Chemistry in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Chemistry merit badge?
Chemistry is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Chemistry can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Chemistry merit badge have?
Chemistry has 6 main requirements with 7 sub-requirements, for 13 items in total.
