Introduction to Chemistry (Undergraduate Foundation)

Chemistry is the science of matter. This course provides a rigorous introduction to its fundamental principles, moving from the definition of matter and its states to the atomic and molecular structures that govern its behaviour. We will classify matter into elements, compounds, and mixtures, and establish the critical distinction between physical and chemical changes. A command of chemistry is essential for any quantitative science. The principles covered here are foundational to medicine, engineering, environmental science, and materials development. Understanding how matter is structured and how it transforms is the basis for creating new materials, developing pharmaceuticals, and managing industrial chemical processes safely and efficiently. Upon completion, you will possess a clear conceptual framework for chemistry. You will be able to classify different types of matter, distinguish between physical and chemical changes, and define elements, compounds, and mixtures. You will also be able to identify the fundamental roles of atoms, molecules, and ions in chemical reactions. This course is designed for first-year university students beginning their studies in any scientific or engineering discipline. It serves as a mandatory prerequisite for further study in chemistry, chemical engineering, biology, and medicine. It is also suitable for anyone requiring a concise and formal review of foundational chemical concepts.

11

2 hrs

Payment required for enrolment
Enrolment valid for 12 months
This course is also part of the following learning track. You may join the track to gain comprehensive knowledge across related courses.
[NUC Core] CHM 101: General Chemistry I
[NUC Core] CHM 101: General Chemistry I
This learning track delivers the complete NUC CCMAS curriculum for General Chemistry I. It is a comprehensive programme designed to build a robust, university-level foundation in modern chemistry. The track systematically covers all essential topics, from atomic theory, chemical bonding, and the states of matter, to the quantitative principles of stoichiometry, equilibrium, thermodynamics, and kinetics. This programme is for first-year undergraduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) faculties who are required to take CHM 101. It is also essential for any student or professional globally who needs a rigorous and complete foundation in first-year university chemistry for further study or career development. This track delivers a full skill set in chemical theory and quantitative problem-solving. Graduates will be able to determine molecular structures, calculate reaction quantities, analyse the energetics and rates of reactions, and solve complex equilibrium problems. This programme provides the non-negotiable prerequisite knowledge for all subsequent chemistry courses and for any degree in the physical sciences, engineering, or medicine.

This learning track delivers the complete NUC CCMAS curriculum for General Chemistry I. It is a comprehensive programme designed to build a robust, university-level foundation in modern chemistry. The track systematically covers all essential topics, from atomic theory, chemical bonding, and the states of matter, to the quantitative principles of stoichiometry, equilibrium, thermodynamics, and kinetics. This programme is for first-year undergraduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) faculties who are required to take CHM 101. It is also essential for any student or professional globally who needs a rigorous and complete foundation in first-year university chemistry for further study or career development. This track delivers a full skill set in chemical theory and quantitative problem-solving. Graduates will be able to determine molecular structures, calculate reaction quantities, analyse the energetics and rates of reactions, and solve complex equilibrium problems. This programme provides the non-negotiable prerequisite knowledge for all subsequent chemistry courses and for any degree in the physical sciences, engineering, or medicine.

Course Chapters

1. Introduction
1

This chapter provides the roadmap for the course. It outlines the foundational concepts of chemistry to be covered, from the scientific method and measurement to the classification of matter and reactions. Key learning objectives include understanding the overall course structure and appreciating how these distinct topics interconnect to form the basis of chemical science.

Chapter lessons

1-1. What is chemistry?
7:35

This lesson formally defines our subject. We establish chemistry as the central science concerned with the composition, properties, and transformations of matter at the atomic and molecular level.

2. Matter
5

This chapter covers the fundamental classification of matter as required by the syllabus. It provides the formal definitions for atoms, molecules, elements, compounds, and mixtures, and explores the changes matter undergoes. Key learning objectives include: defining and differentiating between the classifications of matter; and distinguishing between physical and chemical changes.

Chapter lessons

2-1. Definition and states
4:56

This lesson defines matter and its classification by physical state - into solid, liquid, or gas.

2-2. Physical and chemical changes
1:58

This lesson defines and provides examples of physical changes, which alter form but not identity, and contrasts them with chemical changes (reactions), which result in new substances.

2-3. Characterization of matter
10:14

We characterise matter using its physical and chemical properties. This lesson defines these property types and explains how they correspond to physical and chemical changes, respectively.

2-4. Elements, compounds and mixtures
17:14

This lesson provides the formal definitions for elements, compounds, and mixtures. The key is to distinguish between the chemical bonds in compounds and the physical combination in mixtures.

2-5. Atoms, molecules and ions
12:58

This lesson defines the fundamental particles constituting all matter. We establish the atom as an element's basic unit, a molecule as bonded atoms, and an ion as any atom or molecule with a net charge.

3. Chemical Reactions
1
1

This chapter provides a foundational classification of chemical transformations. It introduces the main types of chemical reactions, providing a framework for predicting the products of simple reactions. Key learning objectives include: identifying and providing examples of the common reaction types, such as synthesis, decomposition, and displacement.

Chapter lessons

3-1. Definition and classification
17:48

This lesson defines a chemical reaction as a rearrangement of atoms. We then introduce the primary classifications used to categorise these transformations, such as synthesis and decomposition.

4. Conclusion
1

This chapter consolidates your mastery of the non-negotiable concepts required for advanced study in the chemical sciences, acting as a final knowledge checkpoint before you proceed. Key objectives are to review all core concepts and outline the immediate next steps required in your university-level chemistry curriculum.

Chapter lessons

4-1. Summary
6:06

This lesson provides a final, consolidated overview of the entire course. It serves as the definitive course recap before outlining your next steps.