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Sylvia Ceyer, Mei Hong, Patti Christie, Alisa Krishtal, and David Grimes

Chemistry is the study of the properties, structure, behavior, and reactivity of matter. As the central science, chemistry has connections to fields from physics to biology, from environmental science to nano-science. A fundamental understanding of chemistry is the basis on which cutting-edge research in many fields rests. This course is designed to build core skills in chemistry, including drawing chemical structures and predicting molecular properties and reactivities, as well as to gain the necessary fundamental knowledge for advanced courses such as Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Materials Science.

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Chemistry is the study of the properties, structure, behavior, and reactivity of matter. As the central science, chemistry has connections to fields from physics to biology, from environmental science to nano-science. A fundamental understanding of chemistry is the basis on which cutting-edge research in many fields rests. This course is designed to build core skills in chemistry, including drawing chemical structures and predicting molecular properties and reactivities, as well as to gain the necessary fundamental knowledge for advanced courses such as Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Materials Science.

This chemistry course is the first in a series of two courses that together cover first-year, University-level chemistry. In this course, you will uncover the principles of chemical bonding, in the way it historically occurred: starting from the first experiments that revealed the fundamental dual wave-particle nature of energy and matter. Using the machinery of quantum chemistry, you will learn to:

  • build models to describe the electronic structure of atoms,
  • examine how atoms can be combined into molecules through different chemical bonding models,
  • predict the structure and geometry of molecules,
  • analyze how molecular geometry determines molecular properties,
  • explore how molecules interact with each other and analyze how these interactions impact properties in a variety of phases

This course is based on material in MIT’s Principles of Chemical Science course, which fulfills the General Institute Requirement in Chemistry for all MIT undergraduates.

The course image is of liquid oxygen suspended between two powerful magnets, demonstrating that oxygen is a magnetic species.

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Wave-particle duality of energy and matter
  • Introductory quantum mechanics
  • Electronic structure of atoms
  • Molecular bonding and structure
  • Intermolecular and interatomic interactions

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Developers core skills foundational for advanced chemical study
Examines wave-particle duality and other quantum phenomena emerging from fundamental experiments
Builds a foundation in chemical bonding, including ionic, covalent, and metallic bonds
Teaches principles of intermolecular and interatomic interactions in gases, liquids, and solids
Suitable for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) majors, especially those planning to pursue advanced study in chemistry
May be taken as the first in a two-part sequence covering first-year university chemistry

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Reviews summary

Engaging chemistry concepts

Learners say that General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding is an engaging and challenging course with well-paced lessons. The course covers both qualitative and quantitative material effectively. While some aspects of the course may require a bit more review, learners feel prepared to take the next level course.
The instructor's lecture style may be more suited for advanced students, but the material is well-organized and supported by recitations and online resources.
"I think part of that was a more off-the-cuff lecture style, though I suspect more advanced students would be perfectly fine with it."
Some learners found the qualitative material more challenging, but appreciated that the material is readily available online or in previous coursework.
"I had more trouble with the qualitative material — types of bonds, orbitals, periodic table trends — much to my surprise."
Students generally understand and appreciate the course's thorough presentation of quantitative concepts like energy, speed, distances, and the Ideal Gas Law.
"The mathy stuff – about half the course – was handled very smoothly, with gradual introductions of more and more complicated elements and recitations that went step by step through problems to make sure you’ve got it straight."
"It’s all about energy, speed, distances, and the *#@% Ideal Gas Law, all of which are quantitative."

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 General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding with these activities:
Read 'Chemical Principles: The Quest for Insight'
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles of chemistry and can supplement your learning from the course.
Show steps
  • Preview each chapter by reading the introduction, summary, and key terms
  • Read each chapter carefully, taking notes and highlighting important concepts
  • Complete the end-of-chapter problems to test your understanding
Review VSEPR theory
Understanding VSEPR theory will help you to predict the geometry and molecular shape of molecules
Show steps
  • Read through an introduction to VSEPR theory
  • Practice applying VSEPR theory to molecules of different shapes
Follow online tutorials on quantum chemistry concepts
Following online tutorials on quantum chemistry concepts can help reinforce your understanding
Browse courses on Quantum Chemistry
Show steps
  • Identify specific quantum chemistry concepts that you want to learn more about
  • Search for online tutorials on these concepts
  • Follow the tutorials and take notes
  • Complete any practice exercises or quizzes provided in the tutorials
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Quantum Mechanics Homework Problems
Practicing quantum homework problems can help strengthen your problem-solving skills and understanding of quantum mechanics concepts
Browse courses on Quantum Mechanics
Show steps
  • Attempt the practice problems at the end of each chapter
  • Check your work by referring to the answer key, but don't immediately give up if you can't get the answer. Trying to solve the problem yourself will be more beneficial than just looking at the answer
  • If you are still struggling with the concepts, go back and review the corresponding sections of the textbook or lecture notes
Attend workshops or webinars on chemistry topics
Attending workshops or webinars on chemistry topics can expose you to new ideas and applications of chemistry.
Browse courses on Chemistry
Show steps
  • Search for upcoming workshops or webinars on chemistry topics
  • Register for and attend the events
  • Take notes and ask questions during the events
  • Follow up with the speakers or organizers if you have any further questions
Create an educational video on a chemical bonding concept
Creating an educational video on a chemical bonding concept can help you to review your knowledge and reinforce your understanding while also potentially benefiting others.
Browse courses on Chemical Bonding
Show steps
  • Choose a bonding concept
  • Research and gather information from credible sources
  • Write a script
  • Record and edit your video
  • Share your video with others
Review and compile your notes, assignments, and exams
Taking time to review your notes and other materials will help you to better retain the information and reinforce your understanding.
Show steps
  • Gather all of your notes, assignments, and exams
  • Review the materials and identify any areas where you need to improve your understanding
  • Create a study guide or summary sheet that includes the key concepts and equations

Career center

Learners who complete General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Materials Scientist
Materials Scientists study the properties, structure, and behavior of materials. They work on developing new materials and improving existing ones for use in a wide variety of applications, such as electronics, energy, and medicine. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Materials Scientist by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Analytical Chemist
Analytical Chemists develop and use methods to analyze the chemical composition of materials. They work in a wide variety of industries, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and environmental protection. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as an Analytical Chemist by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers plan, design, and optimize chemical plants. They work on developing new technologies, improving existing ones, and ensuring that chemical plants operate efficiently and safely. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Chemical Engineer by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Biochemist
Biochemists study the chemical processes that occur in living organisms. They work on a wide range of projects, such as developing new drugs, understanding the causes of diseases, and designing new biofuels. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Biochemist by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Pharmaceutical Scientist
Pharmaceutical Scientists work on the research, development, and production of new drugs and therapies. They use their knowledge of chemistry, biology, and other sciences to create new treatments for diseases and improve the health of people around the world. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Pharmaceutical Scientist by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Secondary School Teacher
Secondary School Teachers need a bachelor's degree in the field they teach, and many states require a teaching certification. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a secondary teacher by providing the necessary skills and knowledge to teach high school chemistry effectively.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers develop and implement solutions to environmental problems. They work on a wide range of projects, such as cleaning up pollution, protecting natural resources, and designing sustainable technologies. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as an Environmental Engineer by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum Engineers work on the exploration, drilling, and production of oil and gas. They use their knowledge of geology, engineering, and chemistry to find and extract oil and gas from the Earth. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Petroleum Engineer by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear Engineers work on the design, construction, and operation of nuclear power plants. They also work on the development of new nuclear technologies. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Nuclear Engineer by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Forensic Scientist
Forensic Scientists collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes. They use their knowledge of science to help solve crimes and bring criminals to justice. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Forensic Scientist by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Geochemist
Geochemists study the chemistry of the Earth and other planets. They work on a wide range of projects, such as understanding the formation of the Earth's crust, studying the chemical composition of the oceans, and exploring for new mineral resources. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Geochemist by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Patent Attorney
Patent Attorneys help inventors protect their intellectual property. They work with inventors to file patents and represent them in court if necessary. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Patent Attorney by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Science Writer
Science Writers communicate complex scientific concepts to a general audience. They work for a variety of media outlets, such as newspapers, magazines, and websites. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Science Writer by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Medical Doctor
Medical Doctors diagnose and treat diseases. They work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Medical Doctor by helping to build a foundation in the basic principles of chemistry and chemical bonding, which are essential for this field.
Medical Physicist
Medical Physicists typically need to hold a Master's or PhD in a science field, often in physics or radiation physics. General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding may be useful in preparing for a career as a Medical Physicist by helping to build an understanding of the properties and structure of matter, which are fundamental to this field.

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in General Chemistry I: Atoms, Molecules, and Bonding.
This textbook provides a rigorous and comprehensive treatment of quantum chemistry, covering topics such as wave-particle duality, atomic and molecular structure, and spectroscopy. It valuable resource for students interested in pursuing advanced studies in chemistry.
This textbook widely used resource for introductory chemistry courses, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject matter covered in this course. It offers a clear and engaging writing style, numerous examples and exercises, and up-to-date coverage of chemical principles.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to thermodynamics, statistical thermodynamics, and kinetics. It is written in a conversational style and includes numerous examples and exercises.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to spectroscopy, covering topics such as atomic and molecular spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. It is written in a conversational style and includes numerous examples and exercises.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to quantum mechanics, focusing on its applications to chemistry. It is written in a conversational style and includes numerous examples and exercises.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of electrochemical methods, including their principles, instrumentation, and applications. It valuable resource for students interested in pursuing advanced studies in chemistry or electrochemistry.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of inorganic chemistry, covering topics such as molecular symmetry, bonding, and reactivity. It offers a clear and concise writing style, making it suitable for both undergraduate and graduate students.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of analytical chemistry, including its principles, instrumentation, and applications. It valuable resource for students interested in pursuing advanced studies in chemistry or analytical chemistry.
This textbook covers the fundamental principles of organic chemistry, including structure, reactivity, and synthesis. It provides a clear and concise writing style, numerous examples, and practice problems.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to biochemistry, covering topics such as the structure and function of biomolecules, metabolism, and gene expression. It is written in a conversational style and includes numerous examples and exercises.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of molecular biology, covering topics such as DNA structure and function, gene expression, and cell signaling. It valuable resource for students interested in pursuing advanced studies in biology or molecular biology.
This textbook provides a clear and concise introduction to ecology, covering topics such as population ecology, community ecology, and ecosystem ecology. It is written in a conversational style and includes numerous examples and exercises.

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