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CHEMISTRY (CHEM)


CHEM 103 - GENERAL CHEMSITRY

Prerequisite: High school chemistry, 3 yrs. High School math

This course introduces the properties of atoms and molecules using the logical processes of scientific reasoning and investigation. Models of the atom are developed using periodicity and quantum mechanics, and these models are extended to molecules, with an emphasis on the effects of forces within a molecule and between molecules. Applications will be made to the biological and geological sciences, medicine, and the environment. The laboratory emphasizes the development of technical skills using safe laboratory practices. Inquiry approaches to problem-solving are introduced, and conclusions are drawn based on data at hand. Chemical and scientific thinking skills are assessed using formal laboratory reports. Offered every fall. Meets Core credit for natural sciences.

Credit: 4


CHEM 104 - GENERAL CHEMISTRY

Prerequisite: CHEM 103

This course examines chemical reactions using the logical processes of scientific reasoning and investigation. Chemical reactions are studied from the perspectives of thermodynamics, equilibrium and kinetics. Applications will be made to the biological and geological sciences, medicine, and the environment. The laboratory emphasizes the development of technical skills using safe laboratory practices. Inquiry approaches to problem-solving are introduced, and conclusions are drawn based on data at hand. Chemical and scientific thinking skills are assessed using formal laboratory reports. Offered every spring. Meets Core credit for natural sciences.

Credit: 4


CHEM 250 - LEAD AND CIVILIZATION

Prerequisite: None

An intensive examination of the role lead has played in the history of civilization, with emphasis on how the uses and toxicity of this metal are related to its chemical properties. Meets Core credit for natural sciences.

Credit: 3


CHEM 251 - MOLECULAR ARCHITECTURE

Prerequisite: None

The vibrant world of chemistry is explored by seeking answers to three specific questions: 1) What is a molecule? 2) How are molecules constructed? 3) How are molecules characterized? Answers to these questions are sought by an in-depth investigation of organic molecules that are either encountered in daily life or are, in part, critical for sustaining life. Consequently, students are introduced to the logical processes of scientific reasoning and investigation and invited to contemplate the impact of chemistry upon society. Meets Core credit for natural sciences.

Credit: 3


CHEM 252 - CHEMISTRY OF CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION

Prerequisite: High school chemistry

This course relates real world applications of analytical chemistry to the investigation of crimes. The underlying chemistry and biochemistry involved in forensic analysis are addressed. Also, the exploration of scientific inquiry as it relates to developing hypotheses and providing proof of a crime based on chemical evidence is investigated. This course does not count toward any major in the natural sciences. Meets Core credit for natural sciences.

Credit: 3


CHEM 253 - CHEMICAL PERSPECTIVES ON LIFE

Prerequisite: None

This course explores the question: What do living organisms look like from a chemical perspective? Answering this question requires an understanding of fundamental chemical concepts of inorganic, organic and biochemistry. The laboratory will enhance understanding of chemical concepts and the scientific method, and develop the student's critical thinking skills. The course assumes no chemistry background. It does not meet major or elective requirements of majors in Chemistry/Geology/Physics or Biology/Toxicology Departments. Three lectures and one-1hr.50min. lab per week. Meets core credit for natural sciences. It does not meet major or elective requirements in CHEM/GEOL/PHYS and BIO/TOX departments.

Credit: 4


CHEM 297 - INTRODUCTION TO LABORATORY & FIELD RESEARCH

Prerequisite: Soph or junior standing

This course will introduce the student to scientific research in the laboratory or field through individual instruction on the direction of a Chemistry faculty member. Graded S/U. Offered each semester.

Credit: 1


CHEM 307-308 - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I & II

Prerequisite: CHEM 104; 307 FOR 308

A survey of the general principles of organic chemistry including nomenclature, structure, reactions, multi-step synthesis, the effect of structural variation on reactivity and structural determination by spectroscopic methods. Emphasis is placed on mechanism and application. Must be taken concurrently with lab. 307/307L offered every fall. 308/308L offered every spring.

Credit: 3-3


CHEM 307L - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY

Prerequisite: CHEM 104

Provides practical experience in modern techniques utilized in the organic chemistry laboratory. The course emphasized the study of the properties, reactivity, and synthesis of organic compounds. The spectrochemical analysis of organic compounds is also stressed.

Credit: 1


CHEM 308L - ORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY

Prerequisite: CHEM 307

Provides practical experience in modern techniques utilized in the organic chemistry laboratory. The course emphasized the study of the properties, reactivity, and synthesis of organic compounds. The spectrochemical analysis of organic compounds is also stressed.

Credit: 1


CHEM 320 - QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS

Prerequisite: CHEM 104

A study of the fundamental principles of gravimetric, volumetric, colorimetric, potentiometric and chromatographic methods of analysis as applied to the quantitative determination of constituents in practical samples. Two lectures and two three-hour laboratory periods per week. Offered every fall.

Credit: 4


CHEM 350 - SCIENCE AS A CULTURAL FORCE

A-THE MAKING OF THE BOMB, B-THE TOBACCO WARS, C-SCIENCE AND HUMAN NATURE, D-EVOLUTION: FOR & AGAINST, E-SCIENCE AND RATIONALITY

Prerequisite: Any natural science core course

An inquiry into the nature of the scientific method in relation to human culture and its use in gaining and applying new knowledge. This course constitutes a substantial interdisciplinary investigation of the impact of science and technology upon society by way of a sustained look at one particular scientific issue or question for the semester. The ethical dimensions of advances in science and technology are explored in detail. Meets Core credit for humanities or natural sciences, but not both. May be taken only once for Core credit. CHEM/ GEOL/PHYS/PHIL credit.

Credit: 3


CHEM 411-412 - PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I & II

Prerequisite: PHYS 206

Studies the basic concepts of thermodynamics, kinetics and quantum mechanics. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Chemistry minors may omit the labs and receive 3 hours credit for each. 411 is offered in the fall, odd years. 412 is offered in the spring, even years.

Credit: 3-4


CHEM 413 - ADVANCED SYNTHESIS LABORATORY

Prerequisite: CHEM 411

Multistep syntheses with careful purification and characterization of each intermediate are used to integrate new ideas and techniques with those introduced in previous courses.

Credit: 3


CHEM 416 - ADVANCED INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

Prerequisite: CHEM 411

Studies trends in reactivity, structure and properties of the elements. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week.

Credit: 4


CHEM 420 - INSTRUMENTAL ANALYSIS

Prerequisite: CHEM 320

A thorough study of the physical principles and the analytical techniques used in instrumental methods of analysis. Two lectures and two three- hour laboratory periods each week. Offered each spring.

Credit: 4


CHEM 423 - PHARMACOLOGY TOXICOLOGY I

Prerequisite: 16 hours of Biology; CHEM 307

See BIO 423 for course description.

Credit: 3


CHEM 429 - BIOCHEMSTIRY

Prerequisite: CHEM 307

Introduction to biochemical principles, systems and methods including the chemistry and metabolism of biologically important compounds. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory period per week. Course may be taken without lab for three hours credit. Offered each fall. BIO/CHEM credit.

Credit: 3-4


CHEM 439 - ADVANCED TOPICS IN BIOCHEMISTRY

Prerequisite: CHEM 429

A study of the complexity of the chemical reaction of biological macromolecules involving investigating the interactions of both organic and inorganic molecules (bio-inorganic chemistry) and the techniques used to study biomolecular structure and function (bio-physical chemistry). This seminar emphasizes critical review and discussion of current scientific literature as well as the development of oral and written presentation skills. Offered in spring, odd years. BIO/CHEM credit.

Credit: 3


CHEM 493 - INTERNSHIP

Prerequisite: Soph. status and approval by department chair

An internship in a laboratory and/or field setting applicable to the discipline will be completed under the supervision by a qualified professional(s). Documentation of 50 clock hours per credit hour, typically over six consecutive weeks (minimum) is required. CHEM/GEOL credit.

Credit: 1-4


CHEM 497 - LABORATORY & FIELD RESEARCH

Prerequisite: Soph. status, perm. of inst. and chair

Laboratory research performed under faculty supervision. This course allows undergraduate students the opportunity to become involved in original research projects directed by Chemistry/Geology/Physics faculty members. Repeatable up to 8 hours.

Credit: 1-3


CHEM 550 - INQUIRY CHEMISTRY INSTRUCTION USING CASE STUDIES

Prerequisite:

The use of case studies in the secondary chemistry curriculum will be explored, with an emphasis on writing case studies that apply inquiry and problem-based learning approaches. Examples of case studies will be provided. Demonstrations, hands-on activities, and laboratory experiments will serve as the basis for the development of the new case studies in the areas of acid-base chemistry, stoichiometry, equilibria, and color.

Credit: 3