BackFundamental Chemistry (CHM 130) Syllabus and Course Overview
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Course Overview
This document provides an overview of the Fundamental Chemistry (CHM 130) course at Coconino Community College. The course is designed as an introduction to general inorganic chemistry, emphasizing scientific methods, laboratory procedures, and foundational chemical concepts. It is intended for students preparing for health-related professions and covers essential topics in chemistry that shape life and the environment.
Course Content and Major Topics
Scientific Methods and Metric System: Introduction to the scientific method, hypothesis formation, and the use of the metric system for measurement and analysis.
Matter and Energy: Study of the properties, classification, and changes of matter, as well as the forms and conservation of energy.
Atomic Structure, Chemical Formulas, and Equations: Exploration of atomic theory, structure of atoms, and the representation of chemical substances and reactions.
Molecules and Compounds: Understanding how atoms combine to form molecules and compounds, including types of chemical bonds.
The Mole Concept: Introduction to the mole as a counting unit in chemistry, Avogadro's number, and its applications in chemical calculations.
Chemical Composition: Determination of the composition of substances, including percent composition and empirical/molecular formulas.
Chemical Reactions: Types of chemical reactions, balancing equations, and recognizing reaction patterns.
Stoichiometry: Quantitative relationships in chemical reactions, including limiting reagents and theoretical yield.
Electron Configuration: Arrangement of electrons in atoms and its relation to the periodic table.
Chemical Bonding: Study of ionic, covalent, and hydrogen bonding, and their influence on chemical properties.
Gases: Properties of gases, gas laws, and kinetic molecular theory.
Liquids, Solids, and Intermolecular Forces: Examination of the states of matter and the forces that hold particles together.
Solutions: Concepts of solubility, concentration, and properties of solutions.
Acids and Bases: Definitions, properties, pH, and titration techniques.
Chemical Equilibrium: Dynamic nature of reversible reactions and the factors affecting equilibrium.
Nuclear Chemistry and Radioactivity: Basic understanding of nuclear reactions, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
Course Outcomes
Develop a working knowledge of the scientific method and its application in chemistry.
Communicate laboratory results effectively in written and oral form.
Manipulate and use the metric system for measurements and analysis.
Explain basic atomic and molecular structures, including chemical formulas.
Understand and apply stoichiometric calculations in chemical reactions.
Demonstrate an elementary understanding of nuclear chemistry and radioactivity.
Utilize basic laboratory techniques safely and effectively.
Describe the basis for chemical equilibrium.
Assessment and Grading
Assessment Component | Weight |
|---|---|
Discussions | 15% |
Labs | 25% |
Homework and Quizzes | 25% |
Exams | 20% |
Final Exam | 15% |
Grading Scale
Percentage | Letter Grade | Description |
|---|---|---|
100-90 | A | Excellent |
89-80 | B | Exceeds Standard |
79-70 | C | Meets Standard |
69-60 | D | Below Standard |
<60 | F | Failure |
W | Withdrawal | Withdrawal from course |
Course Requirements
Reliable internet and computer with webcam (for proctored exams).
Access to Pearson Mylab and Mastering (eText included) or the physical textbook: Introductory Chemistry, 7th Edition by Tro.
Lab kit (CHM130 LP-5071-CK-01) for laboratory activities.
Regular access to Canvas for course materials, assignments, and communication.
Academic Policies and Student Responsibilities
Adherence to the Student Code of Conduct regarding academic honesty.
Attendance and participation are required; students must log in regularly and complete assignments on time.
Procedures for dropping or withdrawing from the course are outlined by the Office of Registration and Enrollment Services.
Special assistance is available through Student Support Services for qualifying students.
Summary Table: Course Outcomes, Content, and Assessment
Goal (Course Outcomes) | Course Content | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
Develop a working knowledge of Scientific Methods | Scientific Methods, Hypothesis, and the Metric System | Homework, Quizzes, Exams, Labs, Discussions |
Communicate Laboratory results in written and oral form | Acids, Bases, and Titration | Labs |
Manipulate and use the metric system for measurement and analysis | Conversions and Dimensional Analysis | Homework, Quizzes, Exams, Labs, Discussions |
Explain Basic atomic and molecular structures | Ionic, Covalent, and Hydrogen Bonding | Homework, Quizzes, Exams, Labs, Discussions |
Nuclear Chemistry | Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation | Homework, Quizzes, Exams, Labs, Discussions |
Stages of Matter | Solids, Liquids, Gases | Homework, Quizzes, Exams, Labs |
Stoichiometry | Le Chatelier's Principle, Limiting Reagent, Theoretical Yield | Homework, Quizzes, Exams, Labs, Discussions |
Acids, Bases, and Titrations | pH, Titration of Acetic Acid | Homework, Quizzes, Exams, Labs, Discussions |
Additional Info
This syllabus outlines the foundational topics and expectations for an introductory chemistry course. Students are encouraged to consult the official course materials and Canvas announcements for updates and detailed instructions.
All major topics listed align with standard introductory chemistry curricula and correspond to the chapters outlined in the provided reference list.