General Chemistry ICHEM-1411: Course Overview

Course Description

This course introduces fundamental principles of chemistry for science, health science, and engineering majors. It covers measurements, properties of matter, states of matter, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, periodicity, atomic structure, chemical bonding, molecular structure, solutions, gases, thermodynamics, and descriptive chemistry. Laboratory experiments reinforce theoretical concepts and include scientific method, experimental design, data collection, analysis, and lab report preparation.

• Lecture: 3 hours/week

• Lab: 3 hours/week

• Total Contact Hours: 96

• Credits: 4 semester hours

Prerequisites

• MATH1314 or MATH1414 with grade "C" or higher

• Or SAT math score ≥ 550, or ACT math score ≥ 22

Course Learning Outcomes

Key Objectives

• Define fundamental properties of matter

• Classify matter, compounds, and chemical reactions

• Determine nuclear and electronic structure of atoms

• Identify periodic trends in chemical and physical properties

• Describe bonding and shape of simple molecules and ions

• Solve stoichiometric problems

• Write chemical formulas and balance equations

• Name chemical compounds using nomenclature rules

• Define types and characteristics of chemical reactions

• Apply gas laws and kinetic molecular theory

• Analyze energy changes in physical and chemical processes

• Convert units and perform dimensional analysis

• Use laboratory apparatus and methodologies

• Demonstrate safe handling of lab equipment and chemicals

• Conduct basic laboratory experiments

• Make accurate experimental observations

• Relate observations to theoretical principles

• Interpret lab results and reach logical conclusions

• Record experimental work and communicate results

• Design fundamental experiments

• Identify information sources for experiments

Course Materials

• Textbook: Chemistry, 8th Edition, Robinson, McMurry, and Fay, Pearson 2019

• Lab Reports: chem21labs.com

• Online Homework: Pearson Mastering Chemistry

• Calculator: Simple scientific calculator (no graphing/memory)

• Scantrons: Accuscan 28510 for exams

• Lab Safety Equipment: ANSI-approved goggles, knee-length lab coat

• Internet Access: Required for assignments and communication

Course Requirements and Evaluation

Grading Breakdown

Letter Grade Scale

Course Schedule: Topics and Labs

Lecture and Lab Topics by Week

Major Chemistry Topics Covered

• Introduction to Chemistry: Scientific method, measurements, chemical tools

• Atoms, Molecules, and Ions: Atomic structure, isotopes, ions, chemical formulas

• Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry: Mass relationships, balancing equations, types of reactions

• Reactions in Aqueous Solutions: Precipitation, acid-base, redox reactions

• Electronic Structure of Atoms: Quantum mechanics, electron configurations, atomic emission

• Periodic Properties: Trends in atomic and physical properties

• Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure: Lewis structures, molecular geometry, VSEPR theory

• Thermochemistry: Energy changes, heat, enthalpy

• Gases: Gas laws, kinetic molecular theory

• Solids, Liquids, and Phase Changes: Intermolecular forces, phase diagrams

Laboratory Techniques and Safety

Lab Safety Rules

• Lab coat, goggles, gloves required for all experiments

• No skin visible from neck down; long pants/skirt, closed shoes, long socks

• Hair tied back, no loose jewelry

• No food or drink in lab

• Clean work area before and after lab

• Report all accidents immediately

• Know location of safety equipment (fire extinguisher, eye wash, etc.)

Lab Procedures

• Pre-lab questions, lab report, and post-lab questions required for each experiment

• Lab reports submitted via chem21labs.com

• Lab videos available for preparation

• Attendance required for lab credit; no make-up labs

Mathematical Operations and Functions in Chemistry

Dimensional Analysis and Unit Conversion

Dimensional analysis is used to convert units and solve quantitative problems in chemistry. It involves multiplying by conversion factors to cancel units and obtain the desired unit.

• Example: Converting grams to moles using molar mass

Formula:

Tips for Success in General Chemistry

• Attend all lectures and labs

• Read textbook and lab manual before class

• Work through practice problems regularly

• Form study groups

• Ask questions and seek help from instructor or tutoring services

• Keep track of deadlines and course policies

• Be responsible for your own learning

Additional info:

• Course covers all major General Chemistry topics as outlined in standard college curricula.

• Laboratory work is integrated with lecture content to reinforce theoretical principles.

• Safety and proper lab technique are emphasized throughout the course.