Chemical Structure and Properties: A Modified Atoms-First, One-Semester Introductory Chemistry Course

Authors

Chris P. Schaller, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
Kate J. Graham, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
Brian J. Johnson, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
Henry V. Jakubowski, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
Anna G. McKenna, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
Edward J. McIntee, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
T. Nicholas Jones, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
M. Abul Fazal, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow
Alicia A. Peterson, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2015

Disciplines

Biochemistry | Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology | Chemistry | Curriculum and Instruction | Education | Higher Education | Life Sciences | Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Abstract

A one-semester, introductory chemistry course is described that develops a primarily qualitative understanding of structure–property relationships. Starting from an atoms-first approach, the course examines the properties and three-dimensional structure of metallic and ionic solids before expanding into a thorough investigation of molecules. In addition to bonding, geometry, molecular orbitals, and intermolecular attractions, other structural topics are included, such as stereochemistry, conformation, and factors that influence the strength of Brønsted acids. Where appropriate, related considerations in biochemistry are highlighted. The course provides a common basis to majors and nonmajors for further study in chemistry and also serves as a platform to illustrate a variety of topics of current research interest.

Comments

DOI: 10.1021/ed400839y

Recommended Citation

Schaller, C. P.; Graham, K. J.; Johnson, B. J.; Jakubowski, H. V.; McKenna, A. G.; McIntee, E. J.; Jones, T. N.; Fazal, M. A.; Peterson, A. A. Chemical Structure and Properties: A Modified Atoms-First, One-Semester Introductory Chemistry Course. J. Chem. Educ., 2015, 92(2), 237–246.