The Structure of Matter

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

• carry out measurements and calculations using the correct number of significant figures;
• solve stoichiometry problems of the following types: gram-gram, solution stoichiometry, limiting reactant, and two sequential reactions;
• explain the Bohr theory of atomic structure;
• calculate the energy and/or wavelength of electronic transitions in one-electron atoms and ions;
• give the electronic configuration of common elements in the periodic table;
• predict the relative sizes, ionization energies, and electron affinities of the elements using the periodic table;
• use electronegativity to predict dipole moment and percent ionic character in bonds;
• draw Lewis structures for a given molecule including resonance structures and expanded valence shells;
• use VSEPR theory to predict the geometry of polyatomic molecule;
• use valence bond theory to describe the types of bonds in a polyatomic molecule and the hybridization of central atoms;
• use valence bond theory to draw diagrams showing orbital overlap and geometry;
• use molecular orbital theory to describe the bonding in any diatomic molecule involving atoms from the first row of the periodic table, or homonuclear diatomic molecules involving atoms from the second row of the periodic table;
• use the structures of two molecules to identify the intermolecular forces that apply to each molecule, and predict which will have the higher boiling point;
• solve problems involving reaction order, rate constants, and activation energy of a chemical reaction, given a list of selected equations;
• give the IUPAC name of an organic molecule;
• draw the structure of an organic molecule when given its IUPAC name;
• draw diagrams of all possible isomers and describe each type of isomer given the formula of an organic compound;
• name and identify the common functional groups;
• draw the lowest and highest-energy conformations of linear alkanes using Newman projections
• draw cyclohexanes in three dimensions (3D) indicating axial and equatorial bonds and 1,3-diaxial interactions;
• identify the highest and lowest energy conformations of linear alkanes and monosubtituted cyclohexanes
• identify a compound with a stereogenic centre using the R/S system of nomenclature;
• name alkenes using the E/Z system of nomenclature;
• draw the mechanism of either an S_N1 or S_N2 substitution reaction indicating the structures of all transition states and intermediates including the stereochemical outcome of the reaction;
• rank the relative stabilities of carbocations;
• name and describe the use of common laboratory equipment;
• accurately perform standard laboratory techniques using accepted methods, such as titration, weighing, pipetting and synthesis;
• write a report based on observations and data obtained in the laboratory;
• apply the appropriate mathematical techniques (e.g. graphical analysis, solution of equations, etc.) to experimental data to solve for physical constants, percent yield, or related quantities;
• determine the relationship between experimental variables using data obtained in the laboratory;
• analyze laboratory experiments with respect to errors inherent in the method or techniques;