Course Overview

Introduction to Chemical Principles

This course provides a foundational understanding of general chemistry, emphasizing both theoretical concepts and laboratory skills. Topics include atomic theory, chemical bonding, thermochemistry, and the behavior of gases, liquids, and solids. The course is designed for students seeking a strong background in chemistry for further study or proficiency exams.

• Course Title: CH 101 Chemical Principles I

• Instructor: Joel E. Boyd, Ph.D.

• Schedule: MWF 8:00-8:50 or 9:00-9:50 (lecture) and one lab section

• Required Textbook: General Chemistry: Principles and Modern Applications (10th ed.) by Petrucci, Herring, Madura, and Bissonnette

• Other Requirements: Lab Safety Goggles, Scientific Calculator

Course Topics and Outline

Main Topics Covered

The course is organized into chapters, each focusing on a key area of general chemistry. Below is the hierarchical structure of topics:

• Chapter 1: Introduction—matter and measurement

• Chapter 2: Atoms and atomic theory

• Chapter 3: Nuclear Chemistry

• Chapter 5: Chemical Compounds

• Chapter 6: Chemical Reactions and Equations

• Chapter 7: Reactions in Aqueous Solutions

• Chapter 8: Thermochemistry

• Chapter 9: Electrons in atoms

• Chapter 10: The periodic table and atomic properties

• Chapter 11: Chemical Bonding I

• Chapter 12: Chemical Bonding II

• Chapter 13: Intermolecular Forces, Liquids and Solids (time permitting)

• Chapter 16: Introduction to Acids and Bases (partial chapter)

Outcome Competencies

Skills and Knowledge Students Will Gain

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Describe major historical developments in modern chemistry.

• Explain the philosophy of science and its interrelationships.

• Understand chemical and environmental concerns.

• Discuss technological innovation and its impact on quality of life.

• Apply atomic theory and chemical reactions.

• Balance chemical equations and perform chemical calculations.

• Identify important characteristics of gases.

• Apply thermochemistry, including the First Law of Thermodynamics.

• Perform stoichiometric calculations using chemical equations.

• Explain the application of quantum theory to chemical systems.

• Describe the periodic table and relationships between electronic structure and properties.

• Understand chemical bonding, Lewis theory, and VSEPR theory.

• Predict molecular geometry, shape, and polarity.

• Apply molecular orbital theory.

• Discuss some modern applications of chemistry.

Key Concepts and Definitions

Selected Topics Expanded

• Atomic Theory: The scientific theory that matter is composed of discrete units called atoms. Modern atomic theory explains the structure, behavior, and interactions of atoms.

• Chemical Bonding: The process by which atoms combine to form molecules and compounds. Includes ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds.

• Thermochemistry: The study of energy and heat changes in chemical reactions. Key equation: where is heat, is mass, is specific heat, and is temperature change.

• Stoichiometry: The calculation of reactants and products in chemical reactions using balanced equations. Example:

• Periodic Table: A tabular arrangement of elements by increasing atomic number, showing recurring chemical properties.

• Lewis Structures: Diagrams that show the bonding between atoms and the lone pairs of electrons in a molecule.

• VSEPR Theory: Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory predicts the geometry of molecules based on electron pair repulsion.

• Molecular Orbital Theory: A method for determining molecular structure in which electrons are not assigned to individual bonds between atoms but are treated as moving under the influence of nuclei in the whole molecule.

Grading and Evaluation

Assessment Methods

• Four Exams: 80% of the grade. Cumulative final exam may replace the lowest exam grade if it improves the score.

• Laboratory: 20% of the grade. Completion of lab assignments is required.

• Homework and Reading: Required for success and may be assigned.

Grade Scale

Course Policies

Attendance and Academic Honesty

• Attendance: Labs must be completed in the assigned week. Excused absences include illness, death in the family, official college business, and academic field trips.

• Academic Honesty: All exams are conducted under the college honor code. Violations result in a zero grade.

• Disabilities: Accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

Additional info:

• Some chapters may be covered only partially or moved depending on time constraints.

• Laboratory work is essential for understanding practical aspects of chemistry.