Williams College Catalog

This course provides a general introduction to chemistry for those students who are anticipating professional study in chemistry, in related sciences, or in one of the health professions, as well as for those who are interested in exploring the fundamental ideas of chemistry as part of their general education. In addition to presenting an overview of chemical concepts, the course provides the foundation for the further study of organic chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry, and it gives special attention to the principles of qualitative and quantitative analysis.
The principal topics include chemical bonding, molecular structure, stoichiometry, chemical equilibrium, acid-base reactions, oxidation-reduction reactions, solubility equilibria, and related applications. Laboratory work comprises a system of qualitative analysis and quantitative techniques.

Class Format: lecture, three hours per week; laboratory, four hours per week

Requirements/Evaluation: evaluation will be based on quantitative weekly problem set assignments, laboratory work and reports, quizzes, one hour test, and a final exam

Additional Info:

Prerequisites: basic proficiency in mathematics as demonstrated in the diagnostic test taken by all first-year students at the beginning of the academic year; students with a strong background in chemistry from high school are encouraged to consider CHEM 153 or 155

Enrollment Preference:

Department Notes: CHEM 151 may be taken concurrently with MATH 100/101/102--see under Mathematics; CHEM 151 or its equivalent is prerequisite to CHEM 156 one of CHEM 151 or 153 or 155 required for the BIMO concentration

Material and Lab Fees:

Distribution Notes:

Divisional Attributes: Division III,Quantitative and Formal Reasoning

Other Attributes: BIMO Required Courses

Enrollment Limit: none

Expected Enrollment: 100