Free online coursePrinciples of Chemical Science

Course Description

The "Principles of Chemical Science" course immerses students in the fundamental concepts and principles governing the world of chemistry. With a total duration of 25 hours and 24 minutes, this comprehensive course is categorized under Basic Studies, specifically within the subcategory of Chemistry. Although there are no reviews yet, this course promises to deliver an in-depth understanding of chemical principles through a structured and engaging format.

The course begins by exploring the significance of chemical principles and their applications in various scientific fields and everyday life. This introductory segment sets the stage for a deeper dive into the intricacies of atomic structure, providing students with a solid foundation on which subsequent topics are built.

Delving into the wave-particle duality of light, the course sheds light on the dual nature of light, combining both wave-like and particle-like properties. This concept is further expanded to encompass the wave-particle duality of matter, introducing the Schrödinger Equation as a pivotal tool in quantum mechanics.

Students explore the energy levels of the hydrogen atom, which serves as a benchmark for understanding more complex atomic structures. The discussion progresses to the wavefunctions (orbitals) of the hydrogen atom, providing a visual and theoretical depiction of electron behavior.

As the course advances, it tackles multielectron atoms, unraveling the complexities of electron interactions within atoms. Understanding the periodic table and periodic trends becomes pivotal, as these concepts offer valuable insights into elemental properties and behaviors.

The formation of ionic and covalent bonds is meticulously examined, followed by a detailed exploration of Lewis structures, formal charge, and resonance, which lay the groundwork for comprehending molecular stability and reactivity. The course also covers the shapes of molecules through the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, as well as more advanced bonding theories such as Molecular Orbital Theory and Valence Bond Theory with hybridization.

Thermodynamics is an essential aspect of chemical science, and this course adeptly addresses bond and reaction enthalpies, Gibbs free energy, and entropy. It delves into the impact of temperature on chemical systems, guiding students through the principles of chemical equilibrium and Le Châtelier’s Principle.

The chemistry of solutions is a focal area, encompassing solubility and acid-base equilibrium. Students learn to assess the safety of water and explore the behavior of salt solutions and buffers. Acid-base titrations are covered in detail, providing practical skills for analytical chemistry.

Electrochemical processes, including oxidation-reduction reactions and electrochemical cells, are explored, along with their biological counterparts. Transition metals are introduced, with a focus on the Crystal Field Theory and its explanation of metal-ligand interactions.

Kinetics, a crucial aspect of chemical reactions, is meticulously dissected, covering rate laws, reaction mechanisms, the effect of temperature, and the role of catalysts. The course also addresses nuclear chemistry, providing a fascinating glimpse into the interplay between chemical reactions and nuclear phenomena.

Ultimately, the "Principles of Chemical Science" course culminates in the application of chemical principles to real-world scenarios, reinforcing the knowledge gained throughout the course and equipping students with the analytical prowess to tackle complex chemical problems.