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Fundamental 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.

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