The concepts of thermodynamic equilibrium and kinetic reactivity will be studied. The course seeks to understand the dynamics of chemical reactions. Specifically, we will be exploring the issues that control whether a specific reaction can occur (i.e., if it is even possible) and how fast a feasible reaction will occur. Closely connected to the first concern is the position of chemical equilibrium, which defines the direction in which a reaction will proceed and the extent to which it will occur.

Chemical Principles Lab

How to handle overenrollment: N/A

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: See CHEM 161

Chemical Principles Lab

How to handle overenrollment: N/A

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: See CHEM 161

Chemical Principles Lab

How to handle overenrollment: N/A

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: See CHEM 161

Chemical Principles Lab

How to handle overenrollment: N/A

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: See CHEM 161

Chemical Principles Lab

How to handle overenrollment: N/A

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: See CHEM 161

Chemical Principles Lab

How to handle overenrollment: N/A

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: See CHEM 161

Chemical Principles Lab

How to handle overenrollment: N/A

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: See CHEM 161

As a bridge to prior learning, we will begin with the study of intermolecular forces and their ubiquitous role in chemistry and biology. We will then introduce chemical kinetics to understand the role temperature, concentration, and catalysts play in determining the speeds at which chemical reactions occur and to introduce the concept of chemical equilibrium. Through a thorough treatment of the laws of thermodynamics, we will develop a quantitative understanding of the factors which determine the extent to which chemical reactions can occur before reaching the state of equilibrium.

Lab Section for CHEM 151.

How to handle overenrollment: In Spring, preference to Amherst College first-year students.

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Emphasis on quantitative work, group work, in-class quizzes and exams, and laboratory work.