General Chemistry I, NSC158
Todd Smith
Course description
Chemistry has a rich history, including ancient theories on the nature of matter and recipes for converting lead into gold. Modern research and applications are equally exciting, and include topics such as creating more efficient solar collectors and the reactions of natural and human-made chemicals in the environment (e.g., processes that lead to acid rain, a “hole” in the ozone layer). In this course we will study topics such as atomic structure and the periodic table, reaction stoichiometry, chemical bonds, and molecular structure. Many topics are related to current health and environmental issues. For example, discussions of pH and reduction-oxidation reactions include research on the natural chemistry of surface waters and the effects of acid rain on natural systems.
Course goals
- Understand that the study of chemistry allows us to predict the physical and chemical properties of atoms
- Demonstrate the connection between the properties of atoms and the macroscopic world we experience in our daily lives
- Illustrate that science is a process
- Hone problem-solving skills
Grading policy
Students are expected to attend all lectures and to complete all reading assignments. There will be two 1-hour exams during class, weekly homework assignments, an in-class presentation, and a final exam. The one-hour exams are worth 100 points each, the homework 20 points each, the presentation 100 points, and the final is worth 100 points. The grade received in the course will be the ratio of points earned over points possible: 90% & above = A, 80-89% = B, 70-79% = C, 60-69% = D. Diligent and conscientious participation in class and on assignments will boost borderline grades to the higher grade. If extenuating circumstances will prevent you from taking an exam notify me as soon as possible so that we can make alternative arrangements for administering the exam.
Co-requisite
General Chemistry I Laboratory, NSC444
Course schedule - an approximate guide to the semester
Intro class, 9/5; class on Friday, 9/7
- An overview of the course
- Chapter 1 - Central themes in chemistry; science is a process
Week of 9/10
- Chapter 2 - The components of matter; mass laws & Dalton's atomic theory
- Chapter 3 - Stoichiometery & mole-to-mass conversions
Week of 9/17
- Chapter 4 - Major classes of chemical reactions
Week of 9/24
- Chapter 5 - Discovering the gas laws
Week of 10/1
- Chapter 5 - Kinetic molecular theory
- Exam 1 on Friday 10/5, in class
Week of 10/8
- Chapter 6 - Thermochemistry - heat is thermal energy
Week of 10/15
Week of 10/22 - Hendricks Days - no classes Monday & Tuesday
- Review & discussion of topics to date
Week of 10/29
- Chapter 7 - The quantum mechanical model of the atom
Week of 11/5
- Chapter 8 - Electron configurations in atoms - "building-up" atoms
- Exam 2 on Friday 11/9, in class
Week of 11/12
- Chapter 9 - Models of chemical bonding
Week of 11/19
- Catch-up & presentation planning
- Thanksgiving break - no class on Friday
Week of 11/26
- Chapter 10 - The shapes of molecules; VSEPR theory
- In-class presentations on Wednesday and Friday
Week of 12/3
- Chapter 10 - The shapes of molecules continued
Week of 12/10 (Monday & Wednesday only)
- Chapter 11 - Two theories of covalent bonding: VB & MO
12/13 Reading Day
12/14 Reading Day
12/15 Exam Day
12/16 no exams
12/17 Exam Day
12/18 Exam Day