General Chemistry

An introduction to chemistry for science and non-science majors. Both courses use in-class experimentation, discussion and lecture to ask and answer questions of general chemical interest, including applications in biology, physics, astronomy and geology. Students discuss experimental data using the logic and language of chemistry and are frequently asked to substantiate conclusions using both conceptual and quantitative reasoning. Topics include water and its unique properties, atomic structure and properties, molecular structure, types of chemical bonding and reactions, redox systems and electrochemistry, reaction equilibria, thermodynamics and kinetics. Three class periods plus one laboratory period per week; students may also participate in weekly peer-led team learning workshops. Prerequisites: secondary school algebra or enrollment in a college mathematics course. A grade of 1.75 or higher in CHEM-103 is required to fulfill the prerequisite for enrollment in CHEM-104. A grade of 2.0 or higher in CHEM-104 is required to fulfill the prerequisite for enrollment in 200-level courses. Required for biology, geology (1semester), and neuroscience majors. Fulfills NS-L Distribution and QLR requirement. REGISTRATION IN LAB (CHEM-103L) REQUIRED.