Introduction to Chemistry: Reactions and Ratios Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to chemistry, focusing on reactions and ratios, designed for beginners interested in science and health professions. The curriculum covers foundational concepts such as atomic structure, chemical nomenclature, stoichiometry, and reaction types. With a total time commitment of approximately 15 hours, the course is structured into six modules that combine theoretical learning with hands-on problem-solving. Learners will engage with video demonstrations, practice exercises, and real-world applications, culminating in a final project that reinforces key skills. Lifetime access allows flexible, self-paced study.

Module 1: Scientific Method & Measurement

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Introduction to the scientific method
• Measurement techniques and units
• Significant figures and precision
• Chemistry demonstrations by Dr. Ken Lyle

Module 2: Matter and Energy

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Atomic structure and subatomic particles
• Elements, ions, and isotopes
• Periodic trends and organization of the periodic table
• Converting between grams and moles
• Calculating formula masses

Module 3: Compounds

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Oxidation states and their determination
• Naming ionic compounds
• Naming molecular compounds
• Practice problems in chemical nomenclature

Module 4: Chemical Composition and Reactions

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Empirical and molecular formulas
• Writing and balancing chemical equations
• Stoichiometry of chemical reactions
• Reaction calculations using mole ratios

Module 5: Solutions and Solubility Rules

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Aqueous solutions and solute-solvent interactions
• Solubility rules for ionic compounds
• Precipitation reactions
• Net ionic equations and solubility product constant (Ksp)

Module 6: Acid-Base and Redox Reactions

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Definitions and properties of acids and bases
• Acid-base reactions and neutralization
• Introduction to redox reactions
• Identifying oxidation and reduction
• Balancing redox equations

Prerequisites

• Basic high school-level math skills
• Familiarity with fundamental scientific concepts
• No prior chemistry knowledge required

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Apply the scientific method to chemical inquiry
• Interpret the periodic table and predict elemental behavior
• Name and write formulas for ionic and molecular compounds
• Perform stoichiometric calculations for chemical reactions
• Analyze and balance acid-base and redox reactions