Course Description
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.
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.
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.
Prerequisites / Skills Needed
Course Eligibility and Prerequisites
Prerequisites: CHEM.X001_A (General Chemistry I) with a grade of C or better or equivalent non-UCSC course. Previous or concurrent enrollment in Precalculus or higher.
This course is intended for postbaccalaureate students. UCSC undergraduates should follow their major's course requirements.
- Live-Online Attend via Zoom at scheduled times.
| Date | Start Time | End Time | Meeting Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fri, 01-16-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 01-23-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 01-30-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 02-06-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 02-13-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 02-20-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 02-27-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 03-06-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 03-13-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 03-20-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Live-Online | REMOTE |
| Fri, 04-03-2026 | 5:30pm | 9:30pm | Final Exam | REMOTE |
This course is offered in an online synchronous format. Students are required to log in through Canvas at the scheduled start time and participate via Zoom for the duration of each meeting.
Weeks 1-10 will consist of three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week. Information regarding the final week and exam will be provided by the instructor. Textbook requirements will also be announced by the instructor.
Access to the course site and materials in Canvas will be available approximately 24 hours prior to the published start date. There will be no class on 3/27.
Required Textbook:
Introductory Chemistry 7th Edition, Nivaldo J Tro
ISBN-10, 0137922647
This course applies to these programs: