General Chemistry I | CHEM.X001_A

This course explores the foundational principles of chemistry, from atomic theory and the periodic table to chemical bonding and molecular structure. Students will examine intramolecular forces, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry, developing both conceptual understanding and analytical skills essential for advanced studies in chemistry and the health sciences. 

Learning Outcomes

At the conclusion of the course, you should be able to

• Apply fundamental quantitative skills, including mole calculations, molar mass determinations, and solution composition analysis, to solve problems in general chemistry.
• Balance and interpret chemical equations, using stoichiometric relationships to predict product formation, determine limiting reactants, and perform calculations involving mixtures and solutions.
• Explain atomic structure and electron configuration, drawing on foundational principles of quantum mechanics to understand trends in the periodic table and the behavior of elements.
• Describe and predict chemical bonding and molecular geometry, using Lewis structures, VSEPR theory, valence bond theory, and molecular orbital theory to explain bonding behavior and molecular properties.
• Analyze and compare intermolecular forces, and apply stoichiometric principles to quantify relationships in chemical reactions occurring in both pure substances and solutions.

Topics Include

• Quantitative Chemical Problem-Solving The course builds foundational quantitative skills, including mole calculations, molar mass determination, and solution composition analysis, equipping students to solve a range of chemical problems with precision.
• Stoichiometry and Chemical Reactions Emphasis is placed on balancing equations, identifying limiting reactants, and applying stoichiometric principles to predict product formation and analyze chemical mixtures and solutions.
• Atomic Structure and Periodic Trends Students explore atomic theory through quantum mechanics, gaining insight into electron configurations and the periodic behavior of elements.
• Chemical Bonding and Molecular Geometry Using Lewis structures, VSEPR, valence bond, and molecular orbital theories, students learn to describe bonding behavior and predict molecular structure and properties.
• Intermolecular Forces and Solution Chemistry The course concludes with the study of intermolecular forces and their role in chemical interactions, tying in solution stoichiometry to quantify relationships in both physical and chemical processes.

Topics Include

• Foundations and Evidence of Evolution Explore pre-Darwinian science, the development of evolutionary theory, and the genetic and fossil evidence supporting evolution.
• Mechanisms of Microevolution Examine how mutation, natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and non-random mating drive changes in populations, supported by population genetics models like Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.
• Speciation and Macroevolutionary Patterns Investigate how species form and diversify, including the roles of adaptation, reproductive isolation, genetic bottlenecks, and evolutionary trends over deep time.
• Phylogenetics and the Tree of Life Learn how to construct and interpret phylogenetic trees using cladistics and molecular data, and trace the evolutionary history of life on Earth.
• Ecological Principles and Biodiversity Study the interactions of organisms with each other and their environments through topics in behavioral, population, community, ecosystem, and global ecology.

Expected Effort

At UC schools, 1 credit hour typically requires about 3 hours of student work per week. Actual class meeting times may vary by course.

Course Eligibility and Prerequisites

Prerequisites: Cell and Molecular Biology (or equivalent course).

This course is intended for postbaccalaureate students. UCSC undergraduates should follow their major's course requirements.