28625 - Basics of Chemistry T-A L

Course contents

1. Atomic theory and atomic structure. Atomic. number, atomic mass units, isotopes. The nuclear structure.

2. The electronic structure of atoms and the periodical table. Brief description of the quantum theory: Photoelectric effect., Bohr teory of the Hydrogen atom and the atomic line stectra. Quantum numbers and atomic orbitals. Electron configurations and periodicity of the elements.

3. The Ionic bond. Energy and the soid structures involved in ionic bonding. The covalent bond. Single, coordinate and multiple bonds. Polar covalent bonds. Hybrid orbitals, resonance and molecular geometry. Bonding in metals. The Band theory of solids. Conductors, semiconductors and insulators. Hydrogen and Van der Waals bond.

4. Chemical formulas, naming simple compounds. Chemical reactions and balancing of oxidation-reduction equations. Stoichiometry.

5. States of Matter: The gaseous state, the ideal gas law, gas mixtures and the law of partial pressures, real gases. Liquid state, properties an surface tension. Solid state: crystalline and amorphous solids, structures of some crystalline solids.

6. Thermodynamics and equilibrium. First law of thermodynamics, enthalphy, Hess' law and. Formation and combustion standard enthalpies. Chemical equilibrium from a kinetic perspective; the equilibrium constant K. Various expressions for K. Equilibrium in homogeneous and heterogeneous systems. Shifting the equilibrium.

7. Acid-base equilibria. Self-ionization of water and pH. Arrhenius and Bronsted concepts of acids and bases. The pH of strong acid or base solutions.

8. Rate of reaction. Definition, dependence on concentration. kinetic equations., reaction order, experimental determination. Temperature and rate, collision and transition-state theories. Arrhenius equation and reaction mechanisms. Catalysis, homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis.

9. Elettrochemistry. Voltaic cells and electromotive force. Nerst Equation. Tabulating standard electrode potentials. Electrolytic cells.

Readings/Bibliography

1. R.A. Michelin, A. Munari - " Fondamenti di Chimica ", Casa Editrice Ambrosiana, Milano, 2019.

2. R.A. Michelin, P. Sgarbossa, M. Mozzon, A. Munari - "CHIMICA, Test ed Esercizi", Casa Editrice Ambrosiana, Milano, 2018.

Teaching methods

The course consists of both a theoretical component and practical exercises; during the latter, students will be guided through solving problems involving, for example, stoichiometric calculations, balancing redox reactions, calculating the heat of formation, determining solution concentrations, and calculating pH. Classes will be held in person.

Assessment methods

Assessment of learning outcomes involves a written exam. The exam consists of a section with multiple-choice theory questions (typically 28), as well as theory questions and exercises (generally 4) based on topics covered during classroom practice sessions.

Exams will be held in person.

Students with specific learning disabilities (DSA) or temporary or permanent disabilities are advised to contact the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it) well in advance. That office will propose any necessary accommodations to the students concerned; these proposals must be submitted to the lecturer for approval at least 15 days beforehand, so that their appropriateness can be assessed in light of the course's learning objectives.

Teaching tools

Video projector and whiteboard. Teaching materials are also available at https://virtuale.unibo.it/

Office hours

See the website of Giulia Guidotti

See the website of Nadia Lotti