Free online courseChemistry Basics

Course Description

The "Chemistry Basics" course spans an engaging 16 hours and 53 minutes and stands as a premier educational resource in the category of Basic Studies, specifically under Chemistry. This course has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.75 out of 5 stars, reflecting the high level of satisfaction among its learners.

The course commences with a comprehensive introduction to basic chemistry terminology. This foundational segment sets the stage for a deeper understanding of atoms, molecules, and the periodic table. Aspiring chemists will gain an appreciation of the common elements and the various units of measurement essential to the field, including length, mass, volume, temperature, and density. Additionally, learners will explore the intricacies of unit conversion, ensuring a strong grasp of the fundamental tools used in scientific calculations.

Moving forward, the course delves into the core principles of atoms, molecules, and ions. By addressing questions such as "What is an atom?" and "What is an ion?", learners acquire a nuanced understanding of these critical building blocks of matter. The role of Avogadro's number in chemistry and the concepts of molar mass, molecular formulas, and empirical formulas form a significant part of this module, ensuring that students can navigate the molecular dimensions of chemistry.

Also, the course provides an in-depth exploration of chemical nomenclature, covering topics such as ionic compounds, other cations, and anions. A particular focus is given to the naming conventions for molecular compounds and the classification of acids and bases. This rigorous nomenclature segment is crucial for anyone aiming to master chemical language and communication effectively.

One of the highlights of this course is its extensive coverage of balancing chemical equations. Starting from the basics, learners progressively tackle more complex examples, gaining proficiency in the various types of chemical reactions, including combination reactions, decomposition reactions, displacement reactions, and acid-base reactions. Additionally, the course examines the quantitative aspects of reactants and products within chemical equations, addressing limiting reagents and reaction yields with practical examples.

The subject of thermochemistry is another pivotal area covered in the course. Students will delve into definitions of enthalpy, exothermic, and endothermic reactions. Through a series of examples and the application of Hess' Law, learners gain a robust understanding of the heat involved in chemical reactions. Calorimetry and its applications, both in constant volume and constant pressure scenarios, are detailed comprehensively to equip students with the skills needed to measure heat changes accurately.

The course then transitions to the chemistry of gases, addressing the different states of matter, gas laws, and the ideal gas equation. With practical applications, including density calculations and chemical analysis of gases, learners become adept at understanding and working with gaseous substances.

Finally, the exploration of electron structures in atoms and periodic variations offers valuable insights into atomic radius, ionization energy, effective nuclear charge, and electron affinity. This segment ensures that students are well-versed in the fundamental properties that govern chemical behavior and trends across the periodic table.

In summary, the "Chemistry Basics" course provides a thorough and engaging journey through the fundamental concepts of chemistry, ensuring learners are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills essential for further study or professional application in the field of chemistry.