66907 - General Chemistry (A-L)

Learning outcomes

The student acquires the fundamental knowledge on Chemistry and understands its importance as a central, useful, and creative branch of science. He also learns how to solve practical and numerical problems.

Course contents

Atom, isotopes and atomic weight of the elements. Fundamental quantities (S.I) and size. Periodic table. Electronic configuration of atoms. Shape of the orbitals. Periodic properties. Ionization energy and electronic affinity, atomic dimensions. Chemical bond: covalent, polar and ionic bond. Electronegativity and binding energy. Nomenclature. Geometry and bond in polyatomic molecules. VSEPR theory. Rule of the octet and limits of validity. Hybrid orbitals. Resonance and limit formulas. Notes on gases. Liquids, aqueous solutions and concentration of solutions. Ideal solutions and Raoult's law. Ionic and covalent solids. Metallic solids. Weak interactions and hydrogen bonding. Elements of chemical thermodynamics. Colligative properties. Chemical reactions and stoichiometric calculation. Chemical equilibrium. Le Chatelier principle. Chemical equilibrium in solution. Ionic product of water. pH of a solution. Acid and base concept. Strong and weak acids and bases and acid-base equilibria in aqueous solution. Hydrolysis and buffer solutions. Poorly soluble salts and solubility product. Common ion effect. Oxidation states. Redox reactions and potential standard scale. Elements of chemical kinetics: reaction speed, activation energy, catalysts. The program also includes two chemical laboratory practical exercitations on the topics of the theoretical program. 

Readings/Bibliography

- CHIMICA Kotz , Treichel , Townsend 6° ed. EDISES

- FONDAMENTI DI CHIMICA Brown, Woodward et al. 4° edizione EDISES

- CHIMICA un approccio molecolare Tro, 2° edizione EDISES

- PRINCIPI di CHIMICA Atkins et al. 4° edizione ZANICHELLI

- CHIMICA GENERALE Petrucci et al. 11° edizione PICCIN

Teaching methods

The lessons will be presented using the Power Point program. The lessons will also be integrated with classroom exercises carried out by the teacher, on all the topics that will be examined. The course also includes two practical exercises in the General Chemistry laboratory, during which students will become familiar with the most common techniques used in the Laboratory.

Assessment methods

The exam is written. It consists in answering questions concerning the theoretical part and the laboratory exercitations. During the written test the student can use only the periodic table and a scientific calculator (not the mobile phone). It is not allowed to consult books or notes.

Teaching tools

Overhead projector, Power Point slides, laboratory tools and instruments.

Office hours

See the website of Giuseppe Falini