CHEM-131: Principles of Chemistry

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

1. Associate the correct units with measurements of length, mass, volume, temperature, density, and heat.
2. Perform unit conversion and problem solving using the dimensional analysis method.
3. Identify the names of elements based on their elemental symbol.
4. Differentiate between elements, compounds, and mixtures.
5. Use the periodic table as a tool to explain and predict trends in atomic structure and properties.
6. Convert between the names and the chemical formulas of compounds and molecules.
7. Draw Lewis structure for atoms, molecules, and ions.
8. Determine the polarity of bonds.
9. Perform calculations using Avogadro’s number.
10. Balance chemical equations.
11. Use stoichiometry to calculate mass relationships in a chemical reaction.
12. Use the Gas Laws to calculate how changes in pressure, temperature, and/or volume affect an ideal gas.
13. Relate the nature and importance of intermolecular forces to characteristic physical properties.
14. Distinguish between solutes and solvents.
15. Characterize a solution as saturated, unsaturated, or supersaturated.
16. Calculate the concentration of solutions.
17. Distinguish electrolytes from non electrolytes.
18. Define the properties of acids and bases.
19. Calculate pH and pOH of solutions.
20. Perform titration calculations.
21. Distinguish among alpha, beta, and gamma radiation and the appropriate shielding for each.
22. Calculate the amount of radioisotope remaining after a given number of half-lives.

Major Lab Objectives:

1. Recognize the presence of chemistry and its application to the environment, careers and daily life.
2. Apply laboratory rules and know the location of safety equipment.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of chemical instrumentation.
4. Demonstrate the use of critical thinking skills in the analysis of experimental data.