Principles of Chemistry II

CHEM 1212 is the continuation of CHEM 1211. In CHEM 1211, the language of chemistry and how chemists count (moles) were introduced for various systems. In addition, the nature of chemical bonding and the theory (quantum mechanics) that allows the understanding of bonding were discussed for main group elements.

CHEM 1212 will utilize all that was developed in CHEM 1211 and build on it, so as to complete the picture of the interactions between individual molecules in any phase--solid, liquid, gas or mixture. We will explore the reasons species react and attempt to deduce a reasonable picture of the reaction itself (kinetics). We'll focus on the special relationship between reactants and products when a reaction ends (equilibrium) and explain how the energy flow of a reaction plays a role in establising this equilibrium (thermodynamics). Finally, we'll revisit the REDOX reaction and see how the exchange of electrons can be used to do useful work--we'll discuss the battery.

Inquiry Based Learning.

As often as possible, our meetings during 'lecture' will be more of an exploration than a one sided discussion with the instructor talking. Instead, activities and problems will be presented so that you must discover the answers and applications of concepts yourself, providing you with a deeper and longer lasting understanding of the concepts under investigation. While you are working in your groups to complete these activities, I will be more of a coach than teacher, and you will be at 'practice'.

A Challenge.

CHEM 1212 is a challenging course. It is likely that this is the first course where you are asked "why" and to "explain" nearly every question. The critical thinking skills of a scientist are developed in this course, so daily work to not only learn the material but to apply it critically is necessary. Do not blow off any portion of this course.