Course Overview

Course Information

Course Name: CHEM 103 – Foundations of Chemistry Credit Hours: 3 Format: Online Instructor: Jahangir Ermani Contact: Email and office phone provided

Course Description

This course introduces the fundamental concepts of general chemistry. Topics covered include atomic structure, the nature of matter, structure of the atom, intermolecular forces, chemical bonding, reactions, mathematical calculations, scientific notation, basic algebraic equations, and stoichiometry. The course aims to improve students' problem-solving and scientific reasoning skills.

Course Prerequisites

• High School Chemistry is required.

Student Learning Objectives/Outcomes (SLO)

Objectives

• To assist students in developing an appreciation for the significance of chemistry in modern life and society.

• To enable students to receive explicit information and practice about the cooperative learning style for effective group work.

Outcomes

• Give names and formulas of elements, ions, and ionic and molecular compounds.

• Categorize, complete, and balance chemical reactions.

• Do chemistry calculations involving reaction stoichiometry and energy changes.

• Relate properties of electromagnetic radiation (frequency, wavelength, energy) to chemical changes and atomic structure.

• Identify the parts of the periodic table and trends in atomic properties.

• Relate properties of gases with the gas laws and apply these relationships to reaction stoichiometry, gas mixtures, and diffusion/effusion of gases.

Required Textbooks and Materials

• Textbook: Introductory Chemistry (6th edition) by Corwin, H.L. (Pearson/Prentice, Publisher)

• Online Homework: Mastering Chemistry (ALL students have a 14-day free trial)

• Scientific Calculator: Required for problem-solving and calculations

Grading Policy

Course Grade Scale

Grading Allocation

• Hour Exams (100 points each): 40% of final grade

• Homework and Quiz Assignments: 40% of final grade

• Final Exam: 20% of final grade

Note: Instructor reserves the right to modify grading criteria. Points deducted for late assignments. Final exam must be returned to the class.

Course Policies

Homework and Quizzes

• All assignments must be submitted based on Eastern Standard Time (EST) regardless of location.

• Homework and quizzes are delivered via Mastering Chemistry (accessed through Blackboard).

• Quizzes are limited to a single attempt. Multiple-choice quizzes may provide immediate feedback.

• Extensions will NOT be granted.

Exams

• All exams must be submitted based on EST.

• Exams are available online in a given period; final exam is comprehensive.

• Exam monitoring uses Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor to ensure exam integrity.

Reflection/Wiki Page Contributions/Posts

• Weekly reflection or wiki posts are required to help students comprehend course topics.

• Posts must be submitted by Thursday each week; comments/critiques on classmates' posts are due by Sunday.

• Posts should reflect on what was learned, its importance, and connections to other topics.

• Late posts will NOT be accepted.

Technical Requirements

• Personal computer equipped with speakers, microphone, and video.

• Internet access is required for online courses.

• Students are responsible for ensuring their computer meets technical requirements.

Minimum Technical Skills

• Using Blackboard, email, word processing, creating and submitting assignments, downloading/uploading files, and using scientific calculators.

• Linking or embedding YouTube videos, using video editing applications, and basic troubleshooting.

Class Schedule / Course Plan

Spring 2025 CHEM 103 Suggested Pacing Guide of Online Activities

• Course is set up in Eastern Time Zone. Modules close on Sundays at 11:59 PM ET.

• Heavy internet usage may occur during evening hours (8–10 PM).

Additional Policies

• Make-up exams, late work, extra credit, special assignments, attendance, and other policies are outlined in the syllabus.

• Distance learning policies and exam monitoring procedures are in place to ensure academic integrity.

• Students must comply with university policies regarding accessibility and accommodations.

Key Chemistry Concepts Introduced

• Atomic Structure: Study of the components of atoms (protons, neutrons, electrons) and their arrangement.

• Chemical Bonding: Understanding how atoms combine to form molecules through ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds.

• Periodic Table: Organization of elements based on atomic number and properties; trends such as electronegativity, atomic radius, and ionization energy.

• Stoichiometry: Calculations involving the quantitative relationships between reactants and products in chemical reactions. Formula:

• Gas Laws: Relationships between pressure, volume, temperature, and amount of gas. Formula (Ideal Gas Law):

• Electromagnetic Radiation: Study of energy, frequency, and wavelength and their role in chemical changes. Formula:

Example Applications

• Balancing chemical equations to predict product formation.

• Calculating molar masses and converting between grams and moles.

• Using the periodic table to determine element properties and reactivity.

• Applying gas laws to solve problems involving pressure, volume, and temperature changes.

Additional info: The syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of course structure, policies, grading, and key chemistry concepts. Students are expected to use online platforms for assignments and exams, and to develop both technical and scientific skills throughout the course.