General Chemistry I: Course Overview

Course Structure and Materials

This course, General Chemistry I (CHM2045), provides a foundational introduction to the principles and concepts of chemistry. It is designed for college students beginning their study of chemistry and covers a wide range of essential topics, from the nature of matter to chemical reactions and atomic structure.

• Textbook: "Chemistry, The Central Science" (14th edition) by Brown, LeMay, Bursten, Murphy, Woodward, Stoltzfus.

• Lecture Notes: Provided for each chapter, covering key concepts and problem-solving strategies.

• Online Homework: Graded assignments and tutorials are accessed via MasteringChemistry through Canvas.

• Exams: Multiple-choice format, using Scantron sheets. Solutions are posted for review.

Main Topics Covered

The course is organized into the following major chapters, each corresponding to a core area of general chemistry:

• Chapter 1: Introduction: Matter and Measurement

• Chapter 2: Atoms, Molecules, and Ions

• Chapter 3: Chemical Reactions and Reaction Stoichiometry

• Chapter 4: Aqueous Reactions and Solution Stoichiometry

• Chapter 5: Thermochemistry

• Chapter 6: Electronic Structure of Atoms

• Chapter 7: Periodic Properties of the Elements

• Chapter 8: Basic Concepts of Chemical Bonding

• Chapter 9: Molecular Geometries and Bonding Theories

• Chapter 10: Gases

Study Strategies for Success in General Chemistry

Effective Preparation and Study Habits

Success in General Chemistry requires consistent effort, active engagement with the material, and effective study strategies. The following recommendations are based on best practices for learning chemistry at the college level:

• Read Before Lecture: Preview the relevant textbook sections and attempt sample exercises to build foundational understanding.

• Take Organized Notes: Handwritten notes during lectures help reinforce learning and improve long-term retention.

• Avoid Cramming: Spread out study sessions over several weeks to move information into long-term memory.

• Focus on Concepts: Create outlines from memory and compare them to chapter summaries, key terms, and objectives.

• Practice Problems: Regularly solve new problems, especially those from the end of textbook chapters, to develop problem-solving skills.

• Manage Time and Seek Help: Use campus resources such as tutoring services and bring attempted problems for review.

• Simulate Exam Conditions: Write and take practice exams under timed, closed-book conditions to build exam readiness.

Supporting and Supplemental Activities

Additional Resources and Academic Support

• MasteringChemistry: Includes chemistry primers, dynamic study modules, and adaptive review assignments.

• Student Academic Success Services (SASS): Offers tutoring and supplemental instruction for concept mastery.

• Academic Activity Tracking: Monitors student progress and provides early alerts for academic support.

• Calculator Use: Scientific calculators are required; use the EE or EXP key for scientific notation (e.g., is entered as 6.02 EE 23).

Key Concepts and Skills in General Chemistry I

Overview of Major Topics

• Matter and Measurement: Understanding the classification of matter, physical and chemical properties, and measurement techniques.

• Atomic Structure: Study of atoms, subatomic particles, isotopes, and atomic theory.

• Chemical Reactions: Types of reactions, balancing equations, and stoichiometry.

• Solution Chemistry: Properties of solutions, concentration units, and aqueous reactions.

• Thermochemistry: Energy changes in chemical processes, enthalpy, and calorimetry.

• Electronic Structure: Quantum mechanics, electron configurations, and periodic trends.

• Chemical Bonding: Ionic and covalent bonds, Lewis structures, and molecular geometry.

• Gases: Gas laws, kinetic molecular theory, and real gas behavior.

Example: Entering Scientific Notation on a Calculator

To enter Avogadro's number () on a scientific calculator:

• Press: 6 . 0 2 EE 23 (or 6 . 0 2 EXP 23)

• Do not enter: 6 . 0 2 x 10 EE 23

Visual Aids

The following images are directly relevant to the core topics of General Chemistry I and are included to reinforce key concepts:

• Atomic Structure:

• Periodic Table:

• Chemical Bonding (Lewis Structure of Water):

• Molecular Structure (Water Molecule):

• Gases (Balloon as a model for gas behavior):