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. For example, models of chemical bonds explain why carbon dioxide and methane are greenhouse gases, and some of the colors we see in the Aurora Borealis. We will explore these topics as we learn about atomic structure and the periodic table, reaction stoichiometry, chemical bonds, molecular structure, and other concepts central to modern chemistry. Many of these 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 why some gases are “greenhouse gases.”
Prerequisite: General Chemistry I, NSC158 Co-requisite: General Chemistry Laboratory, NSC444

Through this course students should:

Students are expected to attend all lectures and to complete all reading assignments. There will be two 1-hour exams during class (100 pts each), weekly homework assignments (20 pts each), a formal 20-minute oral presentation (170 pts total, see below), and a final exam (100 pts). The grade received in the course will be the ratio of points earned to 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 or completing other assignments, notify me as soon as possible so that we can make alternative arrangements.

– presented during class on 4/18
You may chose one of three topics to explore for your presentations: 1) pharmaceutical and personal-care products (PPCP; for this topic you to focus on a specific compound), 2) micro-beads in personal-care products, or 3) perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in non-stick cookware. Present an argument that addresses the question: What effect – if any - does long-term, low-level exposure to these products or compounds have on our health? In preparation for your presentation you will first write a two-page paper on the topic. You will receive feedback on the paper and then turn-in a revised version of the paper when you deliver your oral presentation. Your presentation must be carefully planned and rehearsed. In your presentation describe the compound, its chemistry, its function in the consumer product, and any potential consequences of its distribution in the environment (e.g., how does it affect biological systems?). You must include data from peer-reviewed literature, and present this data to show that you understand it, and how it supports your argument. These topics connect to several sections of the course, including shapes of molecules, intermolecular forces, and environmental chemistry. Draw on your chemistry background to provide some details of the chemistry of the compound in your presentation. You must turn-in an outline for your presentation, and it must include citations for at least two articles from peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Students must read and understand Marlboro College’s Policy on Academic Integrity. This policy defines plagiarism and describes consequences for students who commit plagiarism and is described in detail in the Marlboro College Handbook.

The Marlboro College library hosts several resources for students on the proper use and citation of sources, including a Library Guide called “Creating Citations,” which also contains a link to Handling Sources: a Guide for Marlboro College Writers. These are excellent resources and students should take some time to explore them.

Week of
1/16

1/23

1/30

2/6

2/13

2/20

2/27

3/6

Spring Break

3/27

4/3

4/10

4/17

4/24

5/1

5/4 & 5 5/8 or 9

http://cs.marlboro.edu/ courses/ spring2017/genchem2/ syllabus
last modified Friday January 20 2017 10:52 am EST