CHM 30 Introduction to Chemical Principles (4)

Instructor: Varies by semester; Currently James Roberts

Current Catalog Description
An introduction to important topics in chemistry: atomic structure, properties of matter, chemical reactions, energy, structure and bonding in organic and inorganic compounds, chemical equilibrium.  The course features a lecture tightly linked to a three-hour studio experience that combines laboratory work and recitation. 

Textbook
"Chemistry", Gilbert,Kirss, Foster, and Davies. 2nd Ed., Norton, 2009

References
None
 

Course Outcomes

To give the students a chemist's point of view about looking at the world; this includes developing a qualitative and quantitive way of seeing the material world at the molecular level. Mastery of the syllabus topics are sought which include:

1. Matter, Energy, and the Origins of the Universe

2. Atoms, ions, and Compounds

3. Chemical reactions and Earth's Composition

4. Solution Chemistry and the Hydrosphere

5. Thermochemistry

6. Properties of Gases: The Air We Breathe

7. Electrons in Atoms and Periodic Properties

8. Chemical Bonding and Atmospheric Molecules

9. Molecular Geometry and Bonding Theories

10. The Chemistry of Solids

11. Organic Chemistry: Fuels and Materials

Prerequisites by Topic

Easily 99% of the students have had a chemistry course in high school, so some familiarity with the material is expected. The course does not require calculus.

Major Topics Covered in the Course

In a nutshell: structure of matter at the atomic-molecular level, physical and chemical properties, energy, reactions.

Assessment Plan for the Course

Assessment for the lecture component of CHM 30 is done by three exams, two hourlies and a final. In addition there are on-line quizzes every week and problem sets. The studio (lab) component has 14 experiments (one per week) with pre-lab exercises and post-lab write-ups which are handed in and graded.