Class Schedules

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q2

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q2

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q2

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q2

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course provides an intuitive, yet rigorous, understanding of how energy is stored and transferred in chemical systems. We start with the behavior of individual atoms and molecules (using the foundation of atomic and molecular structure laid in CHEM 111 , and then build up to the macroscopic concepts of thermodynamics. We focus on free energy as a powerful tool for predicting physical and chemical behavior. We then apply our understanding of energetics to electrochemical systems and the rates of chemical reactions. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Lab fee of $7 required. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 111 with a grade of C- or better, or satisfactory performance on a placement examination, or a score of 4 or 5 on the AP Chemistry test, or a score of 5, 6, or 7 on the IB Chemistry test. One may take the placement exam or use an AP/IB test score only if you have not previously enrolled in CHEM 111.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

Food chemistry is the application of chemical concepts to food, cooking and food processing. This course focuses on food and cooking with lots of in-class and out-of-class experimentation on texture, appearance, flavor and aroma of food. Chemical concepts such as structure, equilibrium and kinetics will be discussed in relation to cooking. Topics covered will include an overview of the chemical structure of fats, proteins, carbohydrates as well as the structure of flavor and aroma molecules. The equilibrium of the chemical reactions involved in ripening and cooking will be explored. Of particular interest are acid-base reactions, pH and the reactions involved in leavening, browning and fermentation. A portion of the course will be student led and depend on the interests of the class.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course further develops the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry, and helps students to develop an ability to propose plausible synthetic pathways to organic molecules. Particular focus is on nucleophilic addition, electrophilic substitution, free radical, and pericyclic reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 211 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course uses key concepts of chemical equilibrium and structure to solve problems in chemical analysis. Lecture and laboratory work provide both the theoretical foundations and practical training in classical methods (gravimetric and volumetric analysis), atomic and molecular spectroscopy, and chromatography. Statistics and error analysis are also emphasized throughout the course. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q2

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course uses key concepts of chemical equilibrium and structure to solve problems in chemical analysis. Lecture and laboratory work provide both the theoretical foundations and practical training in classical methods (gravimetric and volumetric analysis), atomic and molecular spectroscopy, and chromatography. Statistics and error analysis are also emphasized throughout the course. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course uses key concepts of chemical equilibrium and structure to solve problems in chemical analysis. Lecture and laboratory work provide both the theoretical foundations and practical training in classical methods (gravimetric and volumetric analysis), atomic and molecular spectroscopy, and chromatography. Statistics and error analysis are also emphasized throughout the course. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

Presentations on current topics in the molecular sciences by campus visitors as well as by Macalester students and faculty. Chemistry majors will make an oral presentation during their senior year. One hour per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 212.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course covers topics in microscopic physical chemistry dealing with the structural and energetic properties of individual molecules. These topics include the foundations and applications of quantum mechanics, electronic structure and bonding, computational chemistry, molecular symmetry, group theory, rotational, vibrational and electronic spectroscopy, and statistical mechanics. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 or CHEM 115; PHYS 227; MATH 137; MATH 236. Student must earn a grade of C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q2

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course covers topics in microscopic physical chemistry dealing with the structural and energetic properties of individual molecules. These topics include the foundations and applications of quantum mechanics, electronic structure and bonding, computational chemistry, molecular symmetry, group theory, rotational, vibrational and electronic spectroscopy, and statistical mechanics. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 or CHEM 115; PHYS 227; MATH 137; MATH 236. Student must earn a grade of C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course covers topics in microscopic physical chemistry dealing with the structural and energetic properties of individual molecules. These topics include the foundations and applications of quantum mechanics, electronic structure and bonding, computational chemistry, molecular symmetry, group theory, rotational, vibrational and electronic spectroscopy, and statistical mechanics. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 or CHEM 115; PHYS 227; MATH 137; MATH 236. Student must earn a grade of C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

Polymer and macromolecular chemistry combine to form a highly interdisciplinary field that cuts across all areas of modern chemistry.  In particular, the preparation of polymeric and macromolecular materials can be used to illustrate many of the fundamental concepts of synthetic chemistry.  Like small molecules as applied in medicines, polymeric and macromolecular materials occupy a central role in maintaining overall societal well-being.  However, unlike small molecules, which are typically synthesized and used as discreet, homogeneous compounds, polymeric and macromolecular materials are usually synthesized and used as a heterogeneous distribution of compounds of the same structural motif but varying size.  This course will explore: a) key historical developments (and people) giving rise to modern polymer and macromolecular chemistry; b) classical and contemporary protocols for polymer and macromolecular synthesis; c) compare and contrast physical properties of small, mono-disperse molecules with those of large, poly-disperse polymer and macromolecular substances; d) applications of polymer and macromolecular materials to societal needs. Corequisite(s): CHEM 212

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the chemistry of biological molecules, elements of physical biochemistry, the structure of proteins, the mechanisms and kinetics of enzyme catalyzed reactions, and selected topics in intermediary metabolism, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 200 and CHEM 212, or permission of instructor. Students must earn a C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the chemistry of biological molecules, elements of physical biochemistry, the structure of proteins, the mechanisms and kinetics of enzyme catalyzed reactions, and selected topics in intermediary metabolism, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 200 and CHEM 212, or permission of instructor. Students must earn a C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the chemistry of biological molecules, elements of physical biochemistry, the structure of proteins, the mechanisms and kinetics of enzyme catalyzed reactions, and selected topics in intermediary metabolism, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 200 and CHEM 212, or permission of instructor. Students must earn a C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A continuation of CHEM 351. A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the metabolism of amino acids, nucleotides, the regulation of biochemical pathways, and topics in molecular biology such as gene replication, the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, and recent advances in genomics and proteomics. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 190, BIOL 200, and BIOL 351, or permission of instructor.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A continuation of CHEM 351. A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the metabolism of amino acids, nucleotides, the regulation of biochemical pathways, and topics in molecular biology such as gene replication, the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, and recent advances in genomics and proteomics. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 190, BIOL 200, and BIOL 351, or permission of instructor.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A continuation of CHEM 351. A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the metabolism of amino acids, nucleotides, the regulation of biochemical pathways, and topics in molecular biology such as gene replication, the synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, and recent advances in genomics and proteomics. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 190, BIOL 200, and BIOL 351, or permission of instructor.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:
Writing WP
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:
Writing WP
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:
Writing WP
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:
Writing WP
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:
Writing WP
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course offers a rigorous, foundational treatment of atoms and molecules. We study the nature of chemical bonding and how bonding gives rise to the three-dimensional structure of matter. We explore how the macroscopic properties of substances can be interpreted in terms of atomic and molecular structure. We also learn mathematical and conceptual tools for quantifying chemical equilibrium, with an emphasis on the reactions of acids and bases. Laboratory work reinforces concepts in lecture, and also provides a review of fundamental topics, such as stoichiometry, gas laws, and solution-phase reactions, that are essential for future course work in chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. All sections of class will have regular graded homework assignments and tests. Lab fee of $12 required.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course combines topics from both CHEM 111 and CHEM 112 and is meant to be an accelerated one-semester version of General Chemistry. The course begins with a rigorous treatment of atomic and molecular structure, including various models of chemical bonding. These ideas are applied to a thorough discussion of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics. Conceptual and mathematical methods for quantifying chemical equilibrium are also explored, as well as theoretical and practical aspects of nuclear chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and for either CHEM 111 or CHEM 112 . Lab fee of $12 required. Prerequisite(s): AP CHEM score of 4 or 5; IB CHEM score of 5, 6, or 7; or satisfactory performance on an online placement examination. Some knowledge of calculus is expected. Open only to incoming first-year students.

General Education Requirements:
Writing WA
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course combines topics from both CHEM 111 and CHEM 112 and is meant to be an accelerated one-semester version of General Chemistry. The course begins with a rigorous treatment of atomic and molecular structure, including various models of chemical bonding. These ideas are applied to a thorough discussion of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics. Conceptual and mathematical methods for quantifying chemical equilibrium are also explored, as well as theoretical and practical aspects of nuclear chemistry. Three lectures and one three-hour laboratory per week. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and for either CHEM 111 or CHEM 112 . Lab fee of $12 required. Prerequisite(s): AP CHEM score of 4 or 5; IB CHEM score of 5, 6, or 7; or satisfactory performance on an online placement examination. Some knowledge of calculus is expected. Open only to incoming first-year students.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course develops a broad understanding of the theoretical concepts of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital theory and valence bond resonance theory are invoked to describe and explain the ramification of covalent bonding in organic molecules, as well as to rationalize fundamental noncovalent associations. Thermodynamic considerations of 3-dimensional molecular shape are discussed. Contemporary instrumental techniques for the assignment of molecular structure are a key focus. Modern mechanistic theory of organic chemical reactions is developed in the context of acid-base, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and electrophilic addition reactions. Three lectures, four hours laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 with a grade of C- or better or CHEM 115 with a grade of C- or better.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

Presentations on current topics in the molecular sciences by campus visitors as well as by Macalester students and faculty. Chemistry majors will make an oral presentation during their senior year. One hour per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 212.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course covers topics in macroscopic physical chemistry dealing with the bulk properties of matter and energy. These topics include the properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates of reactions and chemical kinetics, and x-ray diffractometry. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 or CHEM 115, PHYS 227, and MATH 137. Student must earn a grade of C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course covers topics in macroscopic physical chemistry dealing with the bulk properties of matter and energy. These topics include the properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates of reactions and chemical kinetics, and x-ray diffractometry. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 or CHEM 115, PHYS 227, and MATH 137. Student must earn a grade of C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course covers topics in macroscopic physical chemistry dealing with the bulk properties of matter and energy. These topics include the properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates of reactions and chemical kinetics, and x-ray diffractometry. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 or CHEM 115, PHYS 227, and MATH 137. Student must earn a grade of C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course covers topics in macroscopic physical chemistry dealing with the bulk properties of matter and energy. These topics include the properties of gases, the First and Second Laws of thermodynamics and their application to physical and chemical systems, phase and chemical equilibria, rates of reactions and chemical kinetics, and x-ray diffractometry. Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 112 or CHEM 115, PHYS 227, and MATH 137. Student must earn a grade of C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

Computation plays a key role in chemical research today, with many articles in the literature using computer modeling to make predictions of chemical behavior and to interpret experimental results. Arguably the most powerful subfield of computational chemistry is quantum chemistry-the application of quantum mechanics to atoms and molecules. This course has the following goals: (1) introducing the basic concepts of quantum chemistry; (2) illustrating the power and limitations of different quantum chemical methods; (3) providing opportunities to apply quantum chemistry to a variety of systems. The emphasis throughout the course will be on the use of computers to make predictions, instead of the mathematics and physics underlying quantum mechanics.  The second half of the course focuses on research projects possibly leading to publication. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 212 (Organic Chemistry II) with a grade of C- or better, or permission of the instructor.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the chemistry of biological molecules, elements of physical biochemistry, the structure of proteins, the mechanisms and kinetics of enzyme catalyzed reactions, and selected topics in intermediary metabolism, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 212 or permission of instructor. Students must earn a C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the chemistry of biological molecules, elements of physical biochemistry, the structure of proteins, the mechanisms and kinetics of enzyme catalyzed reactions, and selected topics in intermediary metabolism, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 212 or permission of instructor. Students must earn a C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

A study of biological processes at the molecular level with an emphasis on the chemistry of biological molecules, elements of physical biochemistry, the structure of proteins, the mechanisms and kinetics of enzyme catalyzed reactions, and selected topics in intermediary metabolism, including the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Three lecture hours and one three-hour laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 212 or permission of instructor. Students must earn a C- or higher in prerequisite courses.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

Varies by semester. Consult the department or class schedule for current listing.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course examines how modern theories of chemical bonding are applied to an understanding of the chemistry of the elements of the periodic table. Students explore chemical structures, reactions and spectra on the basis of molecular symmetry and group theory. Topics covered include chemical periodicity, coordination compounds, and organometallic complexes.Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 312 with a grade of C- or better, or permission of the instructor.

General Education Requirements:
Quantitative Thinking Q1

Distribution Requirements:
Natural science and mathematics

Course Materials

This course examines how modern theories of chemical bonding are applied to an understanding of the chemistry of the elements of the periodic table. Students explore chemical structures, reactions and spectra on the basis of molecular symmetry and group theory. Topics covered include chemical periodicity, coordination compounds, and organometallic complexes.Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 312 with a grade of C- or better, or permission of the instructor.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course examines how modern theories of chemical bonding are applied to an understanding of the chemistry of the elements of the periodic table. Students explore chemical structures, reactions and spectra on the basis of molecular symmetry and group theory. Topics covered include chemical periodicity, coordination compounds, and organometallic complexes.Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 312 with a grade of C- or better, or permission of the instructor.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials

This course examines how modern theories of chemical bonding are applied to an understanding of the chemistry of the elements of the periodic table. Students explore chemical structures, reactions and spectra on the basis of molecular symmetry and group theory. Topics covered include chemical periodicity, coordination compounds, and organometallic complexes.Three lectures and three hours of laboratory per week. Prerequisite(s): CHEM 312 with a grade of C- or better, or permission of the instructor.

General Education Requirements:

Distribution Requirements:

Course Materials