CHM 110 - Chemistry in the Modern World

1. Use bonding theory to develop hypotheses around structure and shape of common chemicals and use molecular modeling to verify predictions and develop and express conclusions. (GELO 3)
2. Use the theory of intermolecular forces to explain and predict the physical properties such as boiling point, melting point, and solvation of common substances. (GELO 7)
3. Use dimensional analysis to set-up and solve multi step problems, discern relevant and irrelevant information, and evaluate if the outcome is reasonable. (GELO 2, 3 and 7)
4. Identify classes of compounds and apply criteria and to determing classifications of compounds and their properties.
5. Use dimensional analysis and basic algebra to better understand the units of concentration and solution preparation and to solve stoichiometric problems. (GELO 7)
6. Recognize classes and predict outcomes of simple types of chemical reactions such as acid/base and understand their applications in everyday life.
7. Select appropriate information to solve pH and pOH problems. (GELO 3)
8. Apply knowledge of collision theory to explain reaction rates and chemical kinetics. (GELO 2)
9. Analyze data that was collected in a laboratory session and write an appropriate report.
10. Use experimentation to deepen understanding of a variety of scientific and mathematical theories. 
11. Clearly and completely state and describe a problem/issue. 
12. Complete work accurately with attention to detail. 

II. Matter

A.  Elements and Compounds

B.  Physical and Chemical Properties and Changes

C.  Mixtures

1.  Homogeneous

2.  Heterogeneous

D.  States of Matter and their Properties

III.  Measurement

A.  Precision and Accuracy

B.  Significant Figures

C.  Scientific Notation

D.  Conversion of Units

E.  Density

IV.  Discovering the Atom and Subatomic Particles

A.  Dalton’s Atomic Theory

B.  Development of the Atomic Theory

C.  Composition of the Atom

D.   Periodic Table and Periodic Law

E.  Isotopes

F.  Average Atomic Mass of Elements

I.  Ion-charge Predictability with Main Group Elements

V.  Modern Atomic Theory    

A.  Models

1.  Bohr Model

2.  Quantum Mechanical Model Overview

B.   Light-Electromagnetic Radiation

1.  Wavelength and Frequency

2.  Electromagnetic Spectrum

C.  Bohr Model - Detailed

1.  Definition

2.  Emission Atomic Spectra

3.  Limitations of Bohr Model

D. Valence Electrons of Atoms

VI.  Chemical Bonding

A.  Molecules and Compounds

1.  Chemical Formulas

2.  Difference Between Elements and Compounds

B.  Ionic Compounds

1.  Writing Chemical Formulas

2.  Polyatomic Ion Definition

C.  Covalent Compounds

D.  Lewis Structures

1.  Draw Structures

2.  Difference Between Ionic and Covalent Compounds

3.  Electron Group Arrangements and Molecular Geometries

4.  Electronegativity

5.  Polarity in Lewis Structures

VII.  Interactions Between Molecules

A.  Intermolecular Forces (IMF’s)

B.  Measurements of Intermolecular Forces

C.  Liquids

1.  Surface Tension

2.  Viscosity

3.  Evaporation

D.  Physical Changes of Solids

E.  Soap, Water, and IMF’s

E.  Solutions and Concentration

1.  Percent by Mass

2.  Molarity

VIII.  Chemical Reactions

A.  Balancing Chemical Equations

B.  Calculations Using Moles   

1.  Definition

2.  Molar Mass

3.  Molar Mass Calculations

4.  Molarity Calculations

C.  Stoichiometry         

1.  Mole to Mole Calculations

2.  Mass to Mass Calculations

3.  Limiting Reactant Problems

4.  Percent Yield

D.  Reaction Rates

IX.  Acid and Base Chemistry

A.  Properties of Acids and Bases

B.  Definitions - Bronsted-Lowry

C.  Neutralization Reactions

D.  pH and pOH Calculations

X. Gases

          A.  Boyle’s Law

         B.  Avogadro’s Law

         C. Charles Law

XI.  Organic Chemistry

A.  Organic Compound Definition

B.  Hydrocarbon Family - Properties

C.  Introduction into Functional Groups 

XII.  Nuclear Chemistry - Optional

A.  Types of Decay

B.  Nuclear Reactions

C.  Biological Effects of Radiation and Nuclear Power

The Grand Rapids Community College Chemistry faculty has specified essential abilities and technical standards critical to the success of students in any GRCC chemistry course. Students must demonstrate these essential abilities to succeed in these courses. Qualified applicants are expected to meet all admission criteria and matriculating students are expected to meet all progression criteria, as well as these essential abilities and technical standards with or without reasonable accommodations.

1.  Essential judgment skills include the ability to identify, assess, and comprehend situations for the purpose of problem solving and coming to appropriate conclusions and/or course of actions.  Specifically, students must be able to:

• Apply mathematical concepts to solve problems
• Discern relevant and irrelevant information when solving problems
• Express knowledge of the appropriate level of chemistry in written and/or  verbal formats
• Draw conclusions based on knowledge and experimental results
• Recognize unsafe situations  in a laboratory environment

2.  Essential physical/neurological functions include the ability to use the senses of sight, hearing, touch, and smell. Students must meet expectations necessary to safely perform tasks required to study chemistry, which include the need for manual dexterity and the ability to use sight and hearing. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Manipulate equipment and glassware to prepare for and conduct laboratory procedures
• Write in a laboratory notebook during the course of a laboratory experiment
• Observe and note changes (in color, sound, etc.) as experimental conditions progress or change
• Operate a computer for the purposes of inputting or graphing data and writing laboratory reports
• Operate analytical instrumentation for the purpose of collecting and analyzing data in the course of scientific study and experimentation
• Read and /or hear laboratory directions that involve either experimental procedures or safety concerns
• Tolerate odors and chemicals commonly found in a chemistry laboratory
• Inform the course instructor of any allergies (chemical, latex etc.) that may lead to an allergic reaction

3.  Essential communication skills include the ability to communicate effectively with fellow students, faculty, and all members of the Physical Sciences department. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Understand written and verbal direction when completing tasks and assignments associated with the lecture portion of science courses
• Understand written and verbal directions when completing laboratory tasks and assignments
• Understand written and verbal directions when following all   Departmental safety rules and procedures
• Communicate any issues that involve health or safety in a laboratory environment
• Use information technology skills consistent with effective communication.

4.  Essential emotional coping skills include the ability to demonstrate the mental health necessary to safely engage in the practice of scientific discovery.  Specifically, students must be able to:

• Engage in multitasking without becoming overly stressed
• Practice safe laboratory procedures and be mindful of the safety of others
• Realize that exposure to chemicals can have consequences if the correct safety procedures are not followed
• Collaborate with lab partners to complete a task in the classroom or laboratory
• Cooperate with others and work in groups or alone as indicated by a particular course

5.  Essential intellectual/conceptual skills include the ability to measure, calculate, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate to engage competently in the safe practice of Chemistry. Specifically, students must be able to:

• Select appropriate methods to solve mathematical problems
• Use a calculator to complete calculations
• Use a computer to generate graphs and reports
• Use equipment and instrumentation to make measurements
• Analyze complex graphical data and/ or concepts
• Express an understanding of the concepts learned in chemistry in written form or verbally

6.  Other essential behavioral attributes include the ability to engage in activities consistent with safe practice without demonstrated behaviors of addiction to, abuse of, or dependence on alcohol or other drugs that may impair behavior or judgment. The student must demonstrate responsibility and accountability for actions as a student in the Physical Sciences Department and as a developing professional in the field of chemistry consistent with accepted standards of practice.

Grand Rapids Community College strives to be more than ADA compliant. We strive to be accessible and welcoming to all students of all abilities. After reviewing the Essential Abilities/Technical Standards for this program; your responsibilities as a student entail determining if you can complete all associated coursework either:

• With Accommodation. I am otherwise qualified to meet the same academic standards as any other student entering the program. However, based on a medically documented condition or diagnosis, I would qualify for reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990). I will meet with Disability Support Services on campus to arrange those accommodations in an interactive process with the department of Physical Sciences.

• Without Accommodation. I am able to complete the program without need for reasonable accommodation or modification. In the event my medical documentation reveals otherwise or a condition manifests that would necessitate an accommodation; it is my responsibility to inform a responsible authority figure within the department of (field of study) and work with Disability Support Services to see if a reasonable accommodation or modification can be made.

If you have a medically documented condition or diagnosis, please contact the (field of study) office, or contact Disability Support Services (DSS) at disability@grcc.edu or by phone at 616.234.4140 to arrange accommodations through our interactive process.