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Foundations of Chemistry: Matter, Atoms & Periodic Table

via Coursera

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Details

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Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Certificate Available
Effort

8 weeks, 1 hour a week
Sessions

Self-Paced
Level

Beginner
Subtitles

English

Found in

Part of

Chemistry All-in-One FD

Overview

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Explore the essential building blocks of chemistry, from scientific measurement to the structure of atoms and the organization of the periodic table. This course lays the groundwork for understanding chemical properties and atomic theory. This course introduces the fundamental concepts of chemistry, including scientific notation, significant figures, unit conversions, and the classification of matter. Learners will delve into the structure of atoms, subatomic particles, and the periodic table, gaining a solid grasp of atomic theory and periodic trends. By the end of the course, you will be able to interpret chemical symbols, understand isotopes, and recognize the relationships between elements. The course uses clear explanations, real-world examples, and step-by-step reasoning to build a strong foundation in chemistry. Learners are encouraged to actively engage with the material through conceptual discussions and knowledge checks. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to build a complete and cohesive understanding of the subject. While it offers valuable skills on its own, you'll gain the most benefit by progressing through all three courses as a structured learning journey. This course is based on Chemistry All-in-One For Dummies, by Christopher R. Hren, John T. Moore and Peter J. Mikulecky. From Chemistry All-in-One For Dummies Copyright © 2023 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Syllabus

Looking at Numbers Scientifically
- This module covers the fundamentals of scientific notation, accuracy, precision, and significant figures. Learners will gain the skills to interpret and perform calculations with scientific numbers, ensuring reliable and precise measurement reporting in chemistry.
Using and Converting Units
- This module provides a comprehensive overview of the International System of Units (SI), including base units, metric prefixes, and conversion techniques. Learners will gain practical skills in converting measurements between SI and non-SI units and applying the factor label method for problem-solving.
The Basic Properties of Matter
- This module introduces the fundamental properties of matter, covering the classification of matter into states, pure substances, and mixtures. It explores both physical and chemical properties, along with their real-world relevance. Learners will gain a foundational understanding of how matter behaves and is categorized in scientific contexts.
Breaking Down Atoms into Their Subatomic Particles
- This module explores the fundamental structure of atoms, focusing on subatomic particles like protons, neutrons, and electrons. It covers historical models, chemical symbolism, and concepts like atomic and mass numbers, ions, and isotopes. Learners will gain a clear understanding of how atoms are built and how their properties are defined.
Surveying the Periodic Table of the Elements
- This module provides an in-depth exploration of the periodic table, focusing on how elements are organized and classified based on their properties. Learners will gain the ability to identify trends, understand classifications such as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids, and apply this knowledge to predict chemical behavior.
The Electron
- This module delves into the fundamental properties of electrons, including their configurations, quantum numbers, and valence electrons. Learners will explore how these concepts influence atomic behavior and reactivity, as well as how to interpret quantum number tables and calculate electron arrangements.
Periodic Trends
- This module explores key periodic trends such as nuclear charge, atomic radius, electronegativity, and ionic radii, helping learners understand how these properties influence element behavior and reactivity. It provides a foundation for predicting chemical properties based on position in the periodic table. Learners will develop skills in analyzing and applying these trends to real-world examples.
Doing Chemistry with Atomic Nuclei
- This module delves into nuclear processes such as decay, fusion, and fission, explaining how these reactions impact energy production and medical applications. Learners will explore the characteristics of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation, and understand how to calculate half-lives and interpret nuclear reactions. The module also provides practice questions to reinforce key concepts.