CHEM 191: Principles of Chemistry I

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of chemistry, focusing on the structure and behavior of matter, chemical reactions, and the application of chemical concepts to real-world problems. It is designed for students pursuing science majors and fulfills requirements for further study in chemistry and related fields.

• Instructor: Dr. Clifford Murphy

• Institution: Roger Williams University

• Course Format: Lecture and Lab (separate registration required for lab)

• Prerequisites: Placement in MATH 136 or higher, or successful completion of MATH 117

Catalog Course Description

• CHEM 191 is the first semester of a two-semester General Chemistry sequence.

• Topics include: atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, chemical reactions, thermochemistry, and introductory chemical kinetics and equilibrium.

• Laboratory component emphasizes experimental techniques and data analysis.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Use dimensional analysis to solve quantitative chemical problems.

2. Demonstrate knowledge of atomic and molecular structure, including electron configuration and periodic trends.

3. Apply principles of chemical bonding and molecular geometry (VSEPR theory).

4. Balance chemical equations and perform stoichiometric calculations.

5. Predict the outcomes of chemical reactions, including precipitation, acid-base, and redox reactions.

6. Understand the laws of thermodynamics and the role of energy in chemical changes.

7. Interpret and perform basic chemical calculations, including molarity and solution preparation.

8. Analyze and interpret laboratory data, including error analysis and graphical representation.

Course Methodology

• Instruction is delivered in person with an emphasis on lecture and guided problem solving.

• Laboratory work is conducted in a separate course (CHEM 191L).

• Online homework assignments are completed via Pearson's "Mastering Chemistry" platform.

Required Materials

• Textbook: "Chemistry: A Molecular Approach" by Nivaldo J. Tro (Pearson Education)

• Online Homework: Mastering Chemistry subscription (instructions provided in syllabus)

• Laboratory Manual: Provided electronically via Bridges (university platform)

• Scientific Calculator: Required for class and exams (non-programmable, non-graphing)

Important Dates and Deadlines (2025–2026 Academic Calendar)

Grading Criteria

Letter Grade Scale:

• 900 – 1000: A–A-

• 800 – 899: B+–B-

• 700 – 799: C+–C-

• 600 – 699: D+–D-

• Below 600: F

Attendance Policy

• Attendance is required for all lectures and quizzes.

• Absences may affect your success in the course and your final grade.

• Make-up exams are not given except in documented emergencies.

Exams and Quizzes

• Midterm and final exams are comprehensive and standardized (ACS format for final).

• Quizzes are given in person and may be unannounced.

• Students must bring a non-programmable calculator to all exams and quizzes.

Laboratory Component

• CHEM 191L (lab) is a separate, required course.

• Lab attendance is mandatory; missing more than 25% of labs results in automatic failure of the lab course.

• Lab safety and proper conduct are strictly enforced.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating, plagiarism, and unauthorized collaboration are strictly prohibited.

• Violations will result in disciplinary action, including possible failure of the course.

Support and Resources

• CHEMEX study groups and tutoring are available for additional help.

• Students with disabilities should contact Student Accessibility Services for accommodations.

• Additional academic support is available through the Tutoring and Study Support Center (TSS Center).

Additional Policies

• Electronic devices (phones, smart watches, etc.) are not permitted during class or exams.

• Inclement weather or emergencies may necessitate online instruction.

• COVID-19 policies may affect course delivery and attendance requirements.

Summary Table: CHEM 191 Course Structure

Example: Dimensional Analysis in Chemistry

Definition: Dimensional analysis is a mathematical technique used to convert units from one system to another and to solve quantitative problems in chemistry.

Example Problem: Convert 25.0 grams of NaCl to moles.

Solution:

Molar mass of NaCl = 58.44 g/mol

Example: Balancing Chemical Equations

Definition: Balancing chemical equations ensures that the number of atoms of each element is conserved in a chemical reaction.

Example Equation:

Balanced Equation:

Example: VSEPR Theory

Definition: Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory is used to predict the geometry of molecules based on the repulsion between electron pairs around a central atom.

Application: Predicting the shape of water (H2O):

• Central atom: Oxygen

• Bonding pairs: 2 (to hydrogen atoms)

• Lone pairs: 2

• Predicted shape: Bent (angular)

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of course policies, grading, and expectations for CHEM 191. For detailed content on each chemistry topic, refer to the course textbook and lecture materials.