Catalog Year

Current Catalog Year: 2025-2026

Course Blurbs and Essential Objectives

CHE-1020	Introduction to Chemistry	4 Credits

This course is an introduction to the concepts, principles and applications of chemistry. Includes atomic structure, periodicity, structure of matter, solutions, and an introduction to organic chemistry. Includes lab sessions which illustrate the principles of quantitative interpretation of data. Prior learning in Intermediate Algebra or equivalent is strongly recommended.

	1. Define, and distinguish between, science and pseudoscience.
	2. Define and employ the terms necessary to the study of chemistry.
	3. Describe Dalton's atomic theory and modern atomic structure.
	4. Explain the organization of the periodic table and how to use it.
	5. Name, and be able to write chemical formulas for, binary ionic and covalent compounds, including those with common polyatomic ions.
	6. Describe basic classes of chemical reactions and write complete, balanced chemical equations.
	7. Apply the systems of measurement and unit conversions used in chemistry.
	8. Apply the concepts of acid-base chemistry according to Arrhenius.
	9. Describe the concept of equilibrium.
	10. Describe the fundamental characteristics of solids, liquids, and gases.
	11. Explain chemical bonding and molecular structure.
	12. Demonstrate the quantitative reasoning skills required to understand, calculate, and interpret stoichiometric data for formulas, chemical reactions, and solutions.
	13. Explain how knowledge created in the natural sciences has contributed to the creation, maintenance and dismantling of social inequalities and discuss how diversity improves science.
	Lab Objectives:
	1. Apply knowledge of the scientific method to:
	a. formulate and evaluate real-world scientific questions;
	b. ethically plan and implement accurate data collection;
	c. analyze and evaluate data;
	d. generate conclusions based on analysis and justify claims with evidence;
	e. integrate the related work of other scientists; and
	f. propose ideas for further inquiry.
	2. Communicate findings in a format appropriate to the discipline and type of investigation, such as a laboratory notebook, laboratory report, observational study, field investigation report, poster, or presentation using appropriate evidence to support these findings.
	3. Understand the structure and purpose of peer-reviewed publications.
	4. Evaluate scientific information for validity, accuracy, reliability, and methodology.
	5. Identify and follow lab safety techniques that are aligned with CCV’s Chemical Hygiene Plan, Lab Safety Agreements, and chemical Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

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