CHEM 256
Advanced Chemical Concepts Spring 2022
Division III
This is not the current course catalog

This course treats an array of topics in modern chemistry, emphasizing broad concepts that connect and weave through the various subdisciplines of the field–biochemistry, inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry. It provides the necessary background in chemical science for students who are planning advanced study or a career in chemistry, biological science, geoscience, environmental science, or a health profession. Topics include coordination complexes, thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and kinetics. Students must select a laboratory section, either a standard or an intensive section. The standard laboratory sections will give students hands-on experience involving synthesis, characterization, and reactivity studies of coordination and organic complexes; spectroscopic analyses; thermodynamics; electrochemistry; and kinetics. Students will hone their skills in the presentation of results through written reports and worksheets. The aim of the intensive laboratory section (lab section 07) is to provide a program that more closely resembles the unpredictable nature of authentic chemical research. This format will require students to think flexibly and independently, and be willing to take responsibility for determining the path of their laboratory work over the course of the semester. This section will require a weekly discussion period in addition to the laboratory session. The timing of the discussion period will be determined once students have been selected. This section will emphasize collaborative work, experimental design, data analysis and the communication and presentation of results. Enrollment will be limited to students with a strong interest in developing their chemistry laboratory skills. Interested students should consult with the course instructor for more information.