Chemistry 103 (Section 1 for Freshmen–GENERAL CHEMISTRY)

Fall Semester 1999

M, W, F 12:10-1:00 Rm. 243 Physics Lecture Room

Text: General Chemistry, 7^th Edition by Petrucci and Harwood

Optional Texts: Selected Solutions Manual

This semester will provide an introduction to both quantitative and qualitative aspects of chemistry. Throughout the semester we will relate macroscopic, laboratory scale observations to the microscopic or atomic level model. In the first several weeks, you will be introduced to quantitative problem-solving, chemical terminology, and topics treated in the laboratory. Then our focus will shift to the detailed study of atoms, molecules, and bonding. Finally we will discuss solids, liquids, gases, and solutions. Applications to environmental and biochemical problems will be discussed as time permits.

General Chemistry is a fast-paced, mathematically challenging course for most Bryn Mawr students. This semester we will be introducing many of the concepts to be studied in detail in the laboratory and during the Spring Semester. Each student should spend at least six hours per week reading the text, reviewing class notes, and solving problems.

Study actively! As you read the text, stop every few pages and outline what you have just read. Come to class prepared to ask and answer questions and take notes. Many students find it helpful to read through the lecture material before coming to class. Review your notes before coming to the next class. Do problems and consult the manual only when stumped. Study in small groups and explain problems and concepts to each other. Working out problems with a group can be fun and is one of the best ways to learn. Ask questions when you are confused.

Starting September 6, a drop-in Chemistry Clinic will be held in Rm. 273 PSB (the Chemistry Lounge). TAs and tutors will be available to help you with laboratory or lecture questions five evenings per week.

Assigned problems are suggested for each chapter. Each one of you should do problems from each section until you are comfortable with the concepts involved. If you need a challenge, concentrate on the Advanced Exercises at the end. If you are having difficulty, read the section, work through the text examples, then try the problems for that section. Use the Solution Manual only when you are stuck. The number of problems assigned represents a minimum number of problems that you should do. On average, you should plan to solve 2 to 3 problems each weekday of the semester. Please note that the Selected Solution Manual has odd exercise solutions and answers to the assigned even problems will be posted on the Web page.

Each student is required to keep a Homework Problem Notebook. Each assigned problem should be worked out in an organized fashion. You may find it helpful to note your questions or difficulties so that you may seek help from your classmates or during clinic or office hours. Several HW Notebooks will be collected randomly during each Friday Quiz. Following the Final Exam each student will hand in her HW Notebook. While students are encouraged to consult with each other, each individual is required to complete their own notebook. Notebook grades may be used to decide grades close to the borderline. Notebooks will be returned to you.