Introduction to Chemistry (Undergraduate Foundation)

This course covers the fundamental principles of chemistry. It begins with the scientific method, precision in measurement, significant figures, and the classification of matter. The material then moves to the core concepts of elements and compounds, and provides an introduction to the different types of chemical reactions. A command of these foundational topics is non-negotiable for any scientific study. The principles of measurement and precision are the basis of all experimental science. Understanding the nature of matter and the classification of reactions is the essential vocabulary required to describe the chemical world. This is the starting point for all subsequent study in chemistry. By the end of this course, you will be able to perform calculations with the correct number of significant figures, identify the different states of matter, and classify various types of chemical reactions. You will also be able to apply the scientific method to solve problems and understand the importance of precision in quantitative measurements. This course is for students beginning their study of chemistry at the university foundation level. It is a mandatory prerequisite for any student intending to pursue a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, medicine, or any of the biological sciences.

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

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

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. Welcome

This lesson provides a brief overview of the course, outlining the key topics that form the foundation of all subsequent study in chemistry.

1-2. What is chemistry?

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. Principles of Measurement

This chapter covers the foundation of all experimental science. We will establish the scientific method and the core principles of quantitative measurement. Mastery of this material is a non-negotiable prerequisite for any valid laboratory work. Key topics: applying the scientific method; differentiating precision and accuracy; calculating with significant figures; and classifying experimental errors.

Chapter lessons

2-1. The scientific method

8:51

This lesson outlines the systematic process of the scientific method, from observation and hypothesis to experimentation and theory.

2-2. Measurement

5:43

This lesson distinguishes between fundamental and derived quantities. We cover the base SI units and demonstrate how they are combined to construct all other units for measurement. This framework is essential for all quantitative work.

2-3. Precision and accuracy

8:21

Learn the critical difference between precision and accuracy. We will define both terms and demonstrate why they are distinct, yet essential, measures for assessing the reliability of experimental data.

2-4. Significant figures

This lesson concisely covers the rules for determining the number of significant figures in a measurement and for using them correctly in calculations.

2-5. Errors in measurement

This lesson provides a brief overview of the types of experimental errors, such as systematic and random errors, and how they affect data.

3. Matter

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

3-1. Atoms and molecules

This lesson provides the formal definitions of an atom as the smallest unit of an element and a molecule as a structure of two or more atoms chemically bonded together.

3-2. Elements and compounds

This lesson defines an element as a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom, and a compound as a pure substance formed from two or more different elements chemically united in fixed proportions.

3-3. Mixtures

This lesson defines a mixture as a combination of two or more substances that are not chemically bonded. The distinction between homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures is covered.

3-4. Physical and chemical changes

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.

4. Chemical Reactions

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

4-1. Synthesis (combination) reactions

This lesson introduces synthesis reactions, where two or more simple substances combine to form a more complex product.

4-2. Decomposition reactions

This lesson covers decomposition reactions, where a single compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances.

4-3. Displacement reactions

This lesson covers single displacement and double displacement (precipitation) reactions, focusing on how elements or groups are exchanged between compounds.

4-4. Combustion reactions

This lesson defines a combustion reaction as a reaction in which a substance reacts with an oxidizing agent, usually oxygen, to produce heat and light.

5. Conclusion

This concluding chapter summarises the core concepts covered in the course. It reinforces the importance of precise measurement and the fundamental classification of matter and reactions. This summary prepares the student for the next course in the learning track, 'Atomic Theory and Periodicity', where the building blocks of matter will be explored in detail.

Chapter lessons

5-1. Course summary

This lesson consolidates knowledge by reviewing the scientific method, the principles of measurement, and the classification of matter and its changes.

5-2. Next steps

This final lesson looks ahead, explaining how the principles of matter covered in this course are a direct prerequisite for the study of atomic theory and the structure of the atom.