General Chemistry II: Course Overview and Study Guide

Course Description

This course is the second semester of a two-semester general chemistry sequence. It covers modern chemical theory including solution chemistry, equilibrium, kinetics, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. The course is designed for students in the sciences and fulfills general education requirements.

• Prerequisites: CHM 2045, CHM 2045L (General Chemistry I and Lab)

• Corequisites: CHM 2046L (General Chemistry II Lab)

Course Objectives / Learning Outcomes

• Explain important scientific concepts, principles, and paradigms in general chemistry.

• Apply knowledge to solve quantitative and qualitative problems.

• Critically evaluate scientific claims and arguments.

• Communicate scientific information effectively.

Instructional Method

• This class is taught as a hybrid class (in-person and online via Zoom).

• Lecture sessions are recorded and made available within 24 hours.

Course Evaluation Method

• Quizzes, exams, and a final exam make up the majority of the grade.

• Each of the 3 class exams counts for 20% of the course grade; the final exam counts for 26%.

• Minimum grade required to qualify for the next level chemistry course is a C-.

Course Grading Scale

Major Topics and Weekly Schedule

The following topics are covered, with corresponding textbook chapters:

Key Topics and Concepts

• Solutions and Colligative Properties: Solution formation, vapor pressure, osmotic pressure, and properties depending on solute concentration.

• Thermochemistry and Thermodynamics: Heats of reaction, entropy, free energy, and the laws of thermodynamics.

• Chemical Kinetics: Rates of reaction, rate laws, activation energy, and collision theory.

• Chemical Equilibrium: Equilibrium constants, reaction quotients, and calculations involving equilibrium.

• Acids and Bases: Strength of acids and bases, ionization equilibria, polyprotic acids, and pH calculations.

• Solubility and Precipitation: Solubility product constants and precipitation calculations.

• Electrochemistry: Oxidation-reduction reactions, galvanic and electrolytic cells, and standard electrode potentials.

• Nuclear Chemistry: Types of radioactive decay, nuclear reactions, and applications.

Required Textbook

• Chemistry 10th edition by Whitten et al. (ISBN: 9781133610663)

• Textbook is available on Course page and Canvas.

Technology Requirements

• Reliable computer, headset with microphone, webcam.

• Web browser (Chrome or Firefox recommended), Adobe Reader, Adobe Flash Player.

• Scientific calculator required for class and exams.

Academic Policies

• Attendance and Makeup Policy: Attendance is expected; makeup exams require documentation.

• Classroom Etiquette: Professional behavior is expected in all class settings.

• Academic Integrity: All students must adhere to the university's code of academic integrity.

• Disability Services: Accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

• Counseling Services: Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) are available for students in need.

Additional Info

• Exams are scheduled throughout the semester, with a comprehensive final exam at the end.

• Homework and problem sets are assigned for each lecture topic.

• Students are encouraged to review the textbook and lecture notes regularly.