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Basics of Chemistry


Course Description

This is an introductory course for students without prior experience with chemistry and for those preparing for general chemistry. Recommended for students to fulfil a non-science general education requirement. Topics covered include measurement, atomic theory, bonding and chemical formulas, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, kinetic molecular theory, gas laws, and solutions.


Athena Title

Basics of Chemistry


Equivalent Courses

Not open to students with credit in CHEM 1210E


Pre or Corequisite

MATH 1113 or MATH 1113E


Semester Course Offered

Offered fall, spring and summer


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Student Learning Outcomes

  • By the end of the class, students will be able to solve chemistry problems using the appropriate mathematical expressions and determine if the answer is physically reasonable.
  • By the end of the class, students will be able to explain differences in the physical and chemical properties of ionic and covalent compounds using electrostatic interactions.
  • By the end of the class, students will be able to explain macroscopic properties using molecular-level models.
  • By the end of the class, students will be able to calculate reaction quantities and energies using the appropriate stoichiometric conversions.
  • By the end of the class, students will be able to explain how the physical and chemical properties of matter are controlled by atomic and molecular structure.
  • By the end of the class, students will be able to combine and apply chemical knowledge to solve new or unfamiliar problems.

Topical Outline

  • 1. Matter
  • 2. Measurement and Calculations
  • 3. Elements, Atoms, and Ions
  • 4. Nomenclature
  • 5. Chemical Composition
  • 6. Chemical Reactions
  • 7. Solutions
  • 8. Modern Atomic Theory
  • 9. Molecular Structure
  • 10. Intermolecular Forces
  • 11. Gases

General Education Core

CORE II: Physical Sciences
CORE III: Quantitative Reasoning

Syllabus