BackIntroductory Chemistry (CHEM-110) Syllabus and Course Overview
Study Guide - Smart Notes
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Course Overview
This study guide summarizes the key topics, learning outcomes, and course structure for CHEM-110: Introductory Chemistry, as outlined in the course syllabus. The course is designed for Allied Health and Fire Science students, as well as those preparing for further studies in chemistry. It covers fundamental concepts in chemistry, including matter, atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, gases, solutions, acids and bases, and introductory organic chemistry.
Course Topics and Schedule
Chapter 1: Chemistry in Our Lives
Chapter 2: Chemistry and Measurements
Chapter 3: Matter and Energy
Chapter 4: Atoms and Elements
Chapter 5: Electronic Structure of Atoms and Periodic Trends
Chapter 6: Ionic and Molecular Compounds
Chapter 7: Chemical Quantities
Chapter 8: Chemical Reactions
Chapter 9: Chemical Quantities in Chemical Reactions (Hess’s Law omitted)
Chapter 10: Bonding and Properties of Solids and Liquids
Chapter 11: Gases
Chapter 12: Solutions
Chapter 14: Acids and Bases (Buffers omitted)
Chapter 17: Organic Chemistry
Learning Outcomes
Apply the Law of Conservation of Mass to balance equations and classify reactions.
Solve mathematical problems involving gases using appropriate gas laws.
Use the periodic table to predict chemical properties and trends.
Understand the classification, properties, and changes of matter.
Describe the subatomic composition of atoms, isotopes, and ions, and relate these to atomic number, mass number, and charge.
Distinguish between ionic and covalent bonding (including polar and non-polar), and understand their properties, electron interactions, Lewis structures, and nomenclature.
Apply the concept of the mole to solve problems involving molar mass, molarity, and mass-to-mole conversions.
Demonstrate safe and proficient laboratory skills, including data collection and analysis.
Understand metric measurements, prefixes, scientific notation, and metric conversions.
Explain solutions, factors affecting solubility, solution concentration (percent by mass and molarity), and dilution using the equation .
Understand pH, strong and weak acids and bases, and electrolytes.
Identify and name (up to 10 carbons) the four classes of hydrocarbons and isomers.
Recognize common organic functional groups using visual aids.
Course Materials
Textbook: Timberlake, Basic Chemistry, 6th edition
Lab Manual: Community College of Philadelphia Chemistry 110 Lab Manual
Other: ANSI Z87+ goggles, lab notebook, scientific calculator
Assessment and Grading
Component | Weight |
|---|---|
Lab | 20% |
Quizzes | 15% |
Exams | 40% |
Final Exam | 25% |
Letter Grade | Percentage Range |
|---|---|
A | 90–100% |
B | 80–89% |
C | 70–79% |
D | 60–69% |
F | Below 60% |
Key Course Policies
Attendance: Regular and punctual attendance is expected.
Electronic Devices: Only laptops/tablets for note-taking are permitted; cell phones are not allowed during class or exams.
Academic Integrity: All work must be your own; academic dishonesty results in a zero or failure.
AI Use: Use of AI for assessments is prohibited.
Make-up Policy: No make-up exams or quizzes; lowest exam and quiz scores are dropped (except the final).
Support and Resources
Learning Labs: Tutoring and academic support for chemistry and other subjects.
Library: Access to resources, study rooms, and research support.
Student Academic Computer Centers: Computer and printing access for coursework.
Disability and Religious Accommodations: Available upon request; contact the Center on Disability or your instructor.
Additional Support: Single Stop for financial and personal support services.
Important Dates (Spring 2026)
First day of classes: Monday, January 12
Martin Luther King Day (college closed): Monday, January 19
Spring Break: March 2–7
Last Day to Withdraw: Monday, April 6
Last day of classes: Monday, April 20
Final Exam Week: April 24–30
Additional info:
This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure and expectations. For detailed content on each chapter, refer to the course textbook and lecture materials.
Students are encouraged to utilize all available academic resources and to communicate with the instructor regarding any accommodations or support needed.
