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Fundamentals of Chemistry (CHEM10007)
Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
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Semester 1
Overview
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On completion, the student should have an understanding of the nature of matter, solutions and gases, the chemical change related to equilibrium, energy and kinetics, and the nature of redox processes; and structures and functional groups in organic molecules.
In the practical component, students should develop basic laboratory skills (observation, analytical techniques, report writing) and an appreciation of the health and safety issues associated with the safe handling and disposal of laboratory chemicals.
The subject provides an introduction to the nature of matter: elements, atoms, ions and molecules; the electronic structure of atoms and ions; bond formation, including covalent, ionic, metallic, hydrogen bonding, and van der Waals; solubility and the solution state; ions and hydration; the behaviour of gases; the mole concept; concentrations; stoichiometry; acids, bases, neutralisation reactions and salt formation; acid/base strength and the pH scale; energy and chemical systems; rates of reaction and reaction order; catalysis and enzymes; chemical equilibrium; the equilibrium constant, Ka, Kb, stability constants and solubility products; redox reactions and redox potentials; organic molecules: structure, nomenclature and functional groups; hydrophobicity and hydrophilicity; and biologically significant macromolecules.
This subject will provide the student with the opportunity to establish and develop the following generic skills: the ability to use conceptual models and gather and rationalise data, problem-solving and critical thinking.
Intended learning outcomes
Upon completion of this subject, students should be able to:
- Explain the nature of matter, solutions and gases, the chemical change related to equilibrium, energy and kinetics, and the nature of redox processes; and structures and functional groups in organic molecules.
- Demonstrate basic laboratory skills (observation, analytical techniques, report writing) and an appreciation of the health and safety issues associated with the safe handling and disposal of laboratory chemicals.
Generic skills
This subject encompasses particular generic skills so that on completion of the subject students should have developed skills relating to:
- the organisation of work schedules that permit appropriate preparation time for tutorials, practical classes and examinations;
- the use of electronic forms of communication;
- the utilisation of computer-aided learning activities to enhance understanding;
- the performance of basic manipulations with laboratory equipment;
- the recording of observations, the analysis of information and the interpretation data within a laboratory setting;
- accessing information from the library employing both electronic and traditional means;
- working collaboratively with other students;
- the use of conceptual models;
- problem solving; and
- critical thinking.
Last updated: 2 November 2024