Course Information

Course Title and Description

CH 101 Chemical Principles I is an introductory college-level general chemistry course. The course emphasizes fundamental chemical principles in both classroom and laboratory settings. Topics include atomic theory, atomic structure, chemical formulas and equations, thermochemistry, behavior of gases, the Periodic Table, chemical bonding, liquids and solids, and solutions. The course aims to develop students' understanding of the natural environment and provide a strong background for further study in chemistry and related fields.

Course Schedule

• Lecture: MWF 8:00-8:50 or 9:00-9:50

• Lab section required

Instructor Information

• Instructor: Joel E. Boyd, Ph.D.

• Office: Daniel-Moultrie Science Center 227

• Phone: (864) 379-6573

• Email: boyd@erskine.edu

Required Resources

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

• Lab Safety Goggles

• Scientific Calculator

Course Outline

Main Topics and Chapters

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

• Chapter 8: Electrons in atoms

• Chapter 9: The periodic table and atomic properties

• Chapter 10: Chemical Bonding I

• Chapter 11: Chemical Bonding II

• Chapter 12: Intermolecular Forces, Liquids and Solids (time permitting)

Outcome Competencies

Skills and Knowledge Students Will Develop

• Modern chemistry developments and their historical context

• Philosophy of science and its relationship to chemistry

• Ethical, health, and environmental concerns in chemistry

• Technological innovation and its impact on quality of life

• Atomic theory and chemical reactions

• Chemical compounds and chemical equations

• Important characteristics of gases

• Thermochemistry including the First Law of Thermodynamics

• Stoichiometric calculations using chemical equations

• Quantum theory and its application to chemical systems

• Periodic Properties and the relationship between electronic structure and periodic behavior

• Chemical bonding (Lewis theory, VSEPR, hybridization, resonance)

• Molecular Orbital Theory

• Applications of chemistry in modern society

Grading Policy

Components and Weighting

• Four exams: 80% (A cumulative final exam can replace the lowest exam grade if it improves the student's score)

• Laboratory: 20%

• Reading and homework: Required for success

Grade Scale

Policies

Attendance Policy

• Attendance is required; labs must be completed in the assigned week.

• Excused absences include illness, death in the family, official college business, academic field trips, and intercollegiate athletic competition.

• Missed exams must be rescheduled in advance except for emergencies.

Academic Honesty

• All work must comply with the Erskine College Honor Code.

• Violations on exams will result in a zero and possible failure of the course.

Students with Disabilities

• Accommodations are available in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the ADA.

• Contact the instructor and the campus Disabilities Resources Coordinator for arrangements.

Additional info:

• This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the topics, grading, and policies for a General Chemistry I course, suitable for first-year college students.

• Students are expected to develop both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills.