Chemistry is the science concerned with the study of the interaction of atoms and molecules to form new matter or materials. The major interactive forces in chemistry are electrostatic, that is the force between two charged particles. The forces are either attractive forces between particles of opposite charge, or they are repulsive forces between particles of the same charge. Understanding these negative charged particles (electrons) and positive charged particles (protons), and their interactions, is the basis for understanding and predicting the properties of atoms, and using that knowledge for the creation on new molecules.

Chemistry is often viewed as the central science because it is inextricably integrated with many of the other sciences including particle physics, quantum mechanics, mathematics, biology, archeology and geology, among others. A study of chemistry then is to enter the broader world of science, and particularly to gain a dramatic perspective and understanding of the world we live in through knowledge of atoms at the atomic and subatomic level.

Many a scientist will look at the random nature of Darwinian evolution and conclude all life is random. As David Wilcox sang (tongue in cheek) in “Big Mistake” …

“They taught us kids in school … between the recess breaks

That the universe just sorta fell together like a big mistake”

However, from quantum physics we now know that structure occurs, not in spite of but rather through chaos; indeed chaos plays a constitutive role in the structure of matter and the formation of the universe.

A deeper look, then, into the structure of atoms reveals the amazing order of the laws that regulate and predict chemical behavior, and indeed their foundation on the laws that regulate all things in the universe. This leads one to a more mature view of nature, one filled with wonder and awe at the order; one that can enthrall even the most brilliant scientists.

“Try and penetrate with our limited means the secrets of nature and you will find that, behind all the discernible laws and connections, there remains something subtle, intangible, and inexplicable.”

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“We are in the position of a little child entering a huge library filled with books in many languages. The child knows someone must have written those books. It does not know how. It does not understand the languages in which they are written. The child dimly suspects a mysterious order in the arrangement of the books, but doesn’t know what it is. That, it seems to me, is the attitude of even the most intelligent human being towards God. We see the universe marvelously arranged and obeying certain laws but only dimly understand these laws.”

– Albert Einstein

Science and religion are not in conflict. Rather, it is difficult to look at the laws of nature and not sense something mysterious and inexplicable at work.

Success in Chemistry

Chemistry is a skills-based course, and many of the most important lessons will come in the first few weeks. Each chapter builds a foundation, and each subsequent chapter is built on the lessons that preceded it. You must start off with good study habits from the very beginning, or you risk falling seriously behind.

Reading assignments: You cannot succeed simply by listening to the teacher. You must read ahead in the textbook to gain an understanding of material coming up in the next class.  The class lectures are intended to supplement your textbook reading and problem-solving exercises.  There are also enormous resources available to you through your teacher, the class  notes, and other sources.

Homework: You cannot succeed in this class without doing the homework assignments.  This is essential.  Completing homework is fundamental to your success in this class.  A quiz or test should not be the first time your really attempt to work a problem.

Ask questions: Your questions tell me many things including the pacing of the class, and the clarity of the lessons. I view questions as revealing strength of character, not a weakness, and I invite them.  The only dumb questions are the ones not asked.

Study: Plan to devote 14 – 16 hours/ week to reading and homework problems.  Be sure you have invested the time and effort before joining a study group.  You will find that two or three heads are much better than one in gaining understanding of concepts, and that usually you are not alone when having difficulty with a particular problem. However, all work and problems should be studied and attempted alone before seeking help.

Laboratory exercises: They clarify and build on the concepts taught in class. Be sure to read the lab in advance of the class.  Take care to complete any pre-lab activities to be sure you build your understanding in the principles being explored in the lab.  Unless otherwise indicated, you will work alone on most labs

Use the class Web site. Review the class notes, make use of the worksheets, and practice with any online quizzes.

Get help: As soon as your find yourself not understanding the class discussion, you need to take action. I am available for help every day after class.

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Get on the bike:

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” – Albert Einstein, 1930 (in a letter to his son)

Get on the bike: Just get started, get going, ask questions, and get help when needed.