General Chemistry I (CHE 121) Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Course Name: General Chemistry I (CHE 121 QCF) Credits: 4 (3 lecture hours, 3 lab hours) Instructor: Dr. Anthony J. Mancuso Textbook: Fundamentals of General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry, 8th Edition (McMurry et al.) Prerequisites: Beginning or Fundamentals of Algebra (minimum grade C within 5 years)

Course Description

This course introduces liberal arts majors to the fundamental facts, principles, and techniques of chemistry, emphasizing the scientific approach and applications in modern life. It prepares students for programs such as Dental Hygiene, Nursing, and Medical Laboratory Technology.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand and apply basic chemical theories and laws to inorganic substances and mixtures.

• Describe and solve quantitative problems involving properties and reactions of inorganic substances.

• Perform and interpret simple laboratory experiments.

• Connect chemistry concepts to everyday life.

Course Materials

• Textbook and Solutions Manual (Pearson, Mastering Chemistry access required)

• Laboratory Manual (provided by instructor)

• Calculator, computer, internet access, and required software

Grading Breakdown

• Exams (4): 400 points

• Online Homework Quizzes: 100 points (lowest 2 dropped)

• Laboratory Grades: 120 points

• Comprehensive Final Exam: 150 points

• Total: 750 points

Letter Grade Scale

• A: 93-100%

• A-: 90-92%

• B+: 87-89%

• B: 83-86%

• B-: 80-82%

• C+: 77-79%

• C: 70-76%

• D: 60-69%

• F: <60%

Major Topics Covered (by Chapter)

• 1. Matter and Measurements: Classification of matter, physical/chemical changes, SI units, significant figures, scientific notation, density, temperature conversions.

• 2. Atoms and the Periodic Table: Atomic theory, subatomic particles, isotopes, electron configuration, periodic trends.

• 3. Ionic Compounds: Ions, ionic bonds, properties, naming, polyatomic ions, formulas.

• 4. Molecular Compounds: Covalent bonds, Lewis structures, VSEPR theory, electronegativity, molecular vs. ionic compounds.

• 5. Classification & Balancing of Chemical Reactions: Types of reactions, balancing equations, oxidation numbers, net ionic equations.

• 6. Chemical Reactions & Quantities: The mole, stoichiometry, percent yield.

• 7. Energy, Rate and Equilibrium: Enthalpy, entropy, reaction rates, equilibrium, Le Chatelier’s principle.

• 8. Gases, Liquids and Solids: States of matter, gas laws, intermolecular forces, properties of water.

• 9. Solutions: Types of mixtures, solubility, concentration units, colligative properties, osmosis.

• 10. Acids and Bases: Definitions, pH, titration, buffers.

• 11. Nuclear Chemistry: Nuclear reactions, radiation, decay, fission, fusion, applications.

Laboratory Component

• Introduction and Safety

• Measurements

• Lewis Structures and Molecular Models

• Quantitative Preparation of Sodium Chloride

• Double and Single Displacement Reactions

• Chemical Equilibrium

• Neutralization and Titration

Course Policies and Support

• Attendance and participation are mandatory for success and financial aid eligibility.

• Academic integrity is strictly enforced; use of AI tools for assignments is prohibited.

• Support services include tutoring, disability accommodations, wellness resources, and veteran support.

• Respectful communication and netiquette are expected in all interactions.

Schedule at a Glance

The course follows a chapter-by-chapter progression, with exams after every 2-3 chapters, regular laboratory experiments, and weekly homework quizzes. The final exam is cumulative, covering Chapters 1–11.

Key Equations and Concepts

• Density: $\text{Density} = \frac{\text{Mass}}{\text{Volume}}$

• Temperature Conversions: $\text{K} = ^\circ\text{C} + 273.15$

• Percent Yield: $\text{Percent Yield} = \frac{\text{Actual Yield}}{\text{Theoretical Yield}} \times 100\%$

• Ideal Gas Law: $PV = nRT$

• Molarity: $M = \frac{\text{moles of solute}}{\text{liters of solution}}$

• pH: $\text{pH} = -\log[\text{H}^+]$

Additional Resources

• Academic support, wellness, and diversity resources are available to all students.

• Contact your instructor or tutorial services early if you need help.