Chemistry from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Week 1

We will learn about the components inside the atom and look especially at the electrons. The electron structure determines the properties of the elements. So, by the end of this series of lessons, you will know for each elements where the electrons are located in the atom.

Week 2

Once we understand the electronic structure, we will be able determine how the periodic table can be used to compare the elements according to atomic size and various energies. We will conclude by seeing how these trends can be used to predict chemical properties of the elements.

Week 3

Now that we know the structure of an atom, we can explore how atoms combine to form either molecular or ionic compounds. Then we will learn the rules of nomenclature that ensure that a compound is named according to IUPAC rules. We will end this unit by looking at quantitative relationships for compounds including the molar mass of and mass percent of an element in a compound.

Week 4

We will explore how compounds react with one another to form new substances and then write balanced chemical equations to represent what is happening in a reaction. We will explore several different types of reactions including precipitation, acid-base, oxidation-reduction, and combustion reaction.

Week 5

This unit will delve into the quantitative relationships we can determine from a balanced chemical equation to determine the relative amounts of substances needed to react or the amount of products formed. We will also explore limiting reagents and percent yield to address practical aspects of chemical reactions because there may be leftover reactants and/or incomplete formation of products.

Week 6

This unit looks more in depth at molecular compounds to see how they are bonded together by looking at Lewis structures. These structures provide information about the types of bonds (single, double, or triple) as well as the connectivity of atoms. By knowing the Lewis structure, we can also predict the three-dimensional geometry of an individual molecule.

Week 7

In this unit, we will learn about thermochemistry, which is the study of the thermal energy transfer (heat) in chemical reactions. We will learn how these measurements of heat are made via calorimetry. Then, learn to calculate heat transfer using various methods.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for high school students preparing for Advanced Chemistry

Covers advanced high school chemistry topics based on the American Chemical Society's standards

Taught by experienced chemistry instructors, Dr. Allison Soult and Dr. Kim Woodrum

Provides a strong foundation for understanding chemical concepts and principles

Coursework includes engaging videos, readings, and interactive materials to enhance learning

Assesses student understanding through multiple choice quizzes and graded assignments

Reviews summary

Engaging chemistry fundamentals

Learners say this Chemistry course is largely positive for those new to the subject or seeking a refresher of basic concepts. The course covers topics ranging from atomic structure to bonding to stoichiometry with engaging assignments and helpful examples. Students especially enjoy the expertise of the instructors, Dr. Allison Soult and Dr. Kim Woodrum, who learners say explain concepts patiently and clearly.

The course explores a wide range of topics relevant to introductory chemistry, including atomic structure, bonding, and stoichiometry. This provides learners with a comprehensive overview of the subject.

"The course takes you through the concepts of atomic structure, periodic table and trends, bonding, stoichiometry and thermochemistry."

"I’m knocking this course down one star because of the numerous errors in the practice problems and a few on the quizzes. And this is mainly because, judging from the dates they were addressed in the discussion forums, the errors have been there for several years and have never been fixed."

"I have never understood these chemistry topics as well as I do now."

Learners appreciate the patience and clarity of the instructors. In particular, students remark on their ability to explain complex concepts in an accessible manner.

"The course is well designed and one is guided through problem solving which makes one really learn the matter."

"Highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to learn the basics of chemistry, and also to those who may want to refresh or better understand the subject."

"What a fantastic course. I have learned so much. Even though I have a minor in Chemistry, I feel like this class really went deep into good explanations and lots of problem solving to understand the concepts."

"I thought Dr. Soult and Dr. Woodrum were outstanding. Very, very concise, easy to follow explanations. They are extremely knowlegeable."

A small number of students find the quizzes to be challenging. They suggest that the questions can be tricky or require memorization, which can be discouraging for learners.

"It was a great learning experience. Concepts were taught clearly and provided opportunities to practice problems."

"In the quiz test, most often I have to recalculate my solution till I can get a match in the answer selections. That process greatly improved my comprehension of the concepts of that particular chemistry topic."

"Really good reviews final test did not have too hard question. Formal charge was not tested nor Hess law. Gave a great foundation. I need more practice but overall great class."

A few learners mention errors in the course content, such as incorrect practice problems and typos. While these errors are generally minor, they can be frustrating for learners and detract from the overall experience.

"I’m knocking this course down one star because of the numerous errors in the practice problems and a few on the quizzes."

"There were quite a few errors scattered about, but that's not such a big deal."

"There was one question in the final text which is just wrong -- I left a post in Week 7 Forum."

Some learners express disappointment that no certificate is awarded upon completion of the course. They suggest that providing a certificate would increase the value of the course and motivate learners to complete it.

" It is possible to follow a course developed and structured this way. I am sorry, but I definitely do not recommend it."

"I did not get my certificate on completion of the course"

"We don't get a certificate after completion of this course"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Chemistry with these activities:

Review Chemistry: The Central Science

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Review the key concepts and principles of chemistry, which will provide a strong foundation for this course.

View Chemistry on Amazon

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Read each chapter and take notes.
Complete the end-of-chapter exercises.
Create flashcards for key terms and concepts.

Review High School Chemistry Concepts

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Ensure a solid foundation by revisiting key concepts and principles from your previous chemistry courses.

Browse courses on Chemistry

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Review your high school chemistry notes or textbooks.
Complete practice problems or quizzes online.
Seek clarification on any concepts that you need to reinforce.

Volunteer at a Local Science Museum

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Gain practical experience and engage with the broader scientific community through volunteering at a science museum.

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Find a local science museum or organization that offers volunteer opportunities.
Inquire about available volunteer positions.
Attend training sessions and familiarize yourself with the museum's exhibits.

Four other activities

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Solve Practice Problems

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Reinforce your understanding of chemical concepts by solving practice problems.

Browse courses on Problem Solving

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Access online practice problems or textbooks.
Attempt to solve the problems on your own.
Check your answers and identify areas where you need improvement.

Create a Periodic Table Poster

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Enhance your understanding and visualization of the periodic table through creating a personalized poster.

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Gather information about the elements.
Design the layout of your poster.
Create the poster using digital or physical materials.

Join a Study Group

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Collaborate with peers to discuss concepts, solve problems, and quiz each other, fostering a deeper understanding.

Browse courses on Collaboration

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Find classmates or online forums to form a study group.
Set regular meeting times and create a study schedule.
Actively participate in discussions and contribute to the group's learning.

Present a Chemistry Demonstration

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Deepen your comprehension through hands-on experimentation and sharing your findings, reinforcing concepts and fostering a passion for chemistry.

Browse courses on Experiments

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Choose a chemical reaction or concept to demonstrate.
Design and conduct the experiment.
Prepare a visually appealing and informative presentation.
Present the demonstration to your classmates or a wider audience.

Career center

Learners who complete Chemistry will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Chemist

Chemists study the composition, properties, and reactions of matter. They investigate the structure and properties of substances, and how they interact with each other. They apply their knowledge to develop new processes and products, and solve problems in various industries. The subject matter of this course gives a solid foundation for a career as a chemist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chemist

Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineers apply principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to solve problems in the fields of energy, medicine, and environmental science. They focus on the processes that convert raw materials into products and create new materials. In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of chemistry which forms the foundation of the knowledge required for a career in chemical engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer

Environmental Scientist

Environmental Scientists solve complex problems that affect human health and the environment, such as climate change and pollution. They research the effects of human activities on the environment, and develop and implement solutions to protect and restore the environment. Chemistry knowledge is essential for environmental scientists to analyze environmental samples, to understand the chemistry of pollutants, and to mitigate and solve environmental problems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Materials Scientist

Materials Scientists research and develop new materials and improve existing ones. They study the structure, properties, and behavior of materials, and how they can be used in different applications. This course provides a solid foundation for the chemistry that underpins materials science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist

Quality Control Chemist

Quality Control Chemists ensure that products meet safety and quality standards. They develop and conduct tests to analyze the composition and properties of products. They work in a variety of industries, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. This course provides a foundation in the principles of chemistry, which are essential for ensuring the integrity of products.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Control Chemist

Biochemist

Biochemists study the chemical composition and processes that occur in living organisms. They apply principles of general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry to understand how molecules like proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids come together to form cells and tissues. The study of atoms and molecules via inorganic chemistry is the foundation of organic chemistry, which in turn is the foundation of biochemistry. This course could help build a foundation for a future in biochemistry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Biochemist

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Clinical Laboratory Scientists diagnose and treat diseases by analyzing body fluids and tissues. They perform laboratory tests on blood, urine, and other bodily fluids. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The knowledge of chemistry, especially of inorganic chemistry, is essential for Clinical Laboratory Scientists to understand the composition and reactions of body fluids and tissues, enabling them to make accurate diagnoses and provide effective treatments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Geochemist

Geochemists are earth scientists specializing in the chemistry of the Earth and other planets. They study the composition and structure of the Earth's crust, mantle, and core in order to understand how the Earth formed and evolved over time. Knowledge of inorganic chemistry, which forms the foundation of the periodic table, is essential for the study of the distribution of elements and their isotopes in different geological environments.

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Analytical Chemist

Analytical Chemists research, develop, and apply analytical techniques to inorganic and organic substances. They determine the composition of materials to help other scientists and researchers understand the properties of substances. The principles of chemistry, such as those you will learn in this course, are the foundation of analytical techniques. Techniques include spectroscopy and chromatography. Analytical chemists work in a variety of industry settings such as chemical manufacturing, biotechnology, environmental monitoring, and pharmaceuticals.

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Medical Physicist

Medical Physicists are healthcare professionals who use physics principles to diagnose and treat diseases. They use their knowledge of chemistry to understand the interactions between radiation and biological tissues. This course can help build a strong foundation of chemistry, which is essential for understanding the principles of medical physics.

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Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct research to advance knowledge in a particular field. They may work in academia, industry, or government. Knowledge of chemistry is essential for research scientists to understand the composition and reactions of substances, and to develop new technologies. This course could help provide a foundation in chemistry, which is essential for research scientists to conduct their work.

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Toxicologist

Toxicologists study the effects of toxic substances on living organisms. They work in a variety of settings, including academia, industry, and government. Knowledge of chemistry is essential for toxicologists to understand the composition and properties of toxic substances, and to assess their potential risks to human health and the environment. This course could help build a foundation in chemistry, which is important for toxicologists to conduct their work.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers educate students about science at all levels, from elementary school to college. They develop and implement lesson plans, conduct experiments, and grade assignments. Knowledge of chemistry is essential for science teachers to understand the subject matter they are teaching. This course could help build a foundation in chemistry, which is important for science teachers to ensure that their students have a solid understanding of the subject.

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Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications and provide advice on their use. They work in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. Knowledge of chemistry is essential for pharmacists to understand the composition, properties, and interactions of medications. This course could help build a foundation in chemistry, which is important for pharmacists to understand the principles of pharmacology.

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Physician

Physicians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. They prescribe medications and other treatments, and perform surgeries. Knowledge of chemistry is essential for physicians to understand the composition and reactions of medications, and the chemistry of the human body. This course could help provide a foundation for chemistry, which is important for physicians to understand the principles of pharmacology and physiology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Physician