Chemistry (CHEM)

College of Arts and Sciences

 

CHEM 510 Physical Chemistry      Credit, 3 hours
A comprehensive coverage of the general theories and principles of chemistry. Concepts discussed include atomic structure, molecular structure, thermodynamics, gas laws, liquids, solutions, and other up-to-date topics in physical chemistry. Prerequisite: CHEM 322 with a grade of C or better.

CHEM 515 Organic Chemistry      Credit, 3 hours
A systematic and thorough presentation of organic chemical reactions and mechanisms on an advanced level. Additional topics such as molecular orbital theory, molecular structure, structure and reactivity relationship, and basic chemical spectroscopy will be covered. Prerequisite: CHEM 222 with a grade of C or better.

CHEM 520 Inorganic Chemistry      Credit, 3 hours
A modern approach to the fundamental concept of inorganic chemistry, encompassing topics such as bonding theories, coordination compounds, atomic structure, reactions in non-aqueous systems, bond energies, trends within the periodic table, and techniques. Consent of instructor required.

CHEM 525 Analytical Chemistry      Credit, 3 hours
A survey of the theory and applications of analytical chemistry. Some gravimetric and titrimetric methods will be studied; however, major emphasis will be placed on instrumental methods of analysis. The topics to be covered will include: ionic equilibria, potentiometric measurements, the measurement of pH, conductometric measurements, polarography and amperometric titrations, electrolytic methods and spectrophotometric methods. Consent of instructor required.

CHEM 530 Physical Biochemistry      Credit, 3 hours
Systematic treatment of the fundamental principles and applications of physical chemistry as they are used to solve problems in biology, biochemistry, and medicine. This course will provide students with an overview of physical chemistry principles including the basic concepts of thermodynamics, kinetics, and molecular structure, with emphasis on biological applications. Prerequisites: CHEM 370, PHYS 202 or 242, and MATH 170 with a grade of C or better, or consent of instructor. Students who have received credit for CHEM 410 may not receive credit for CHEM 530.

CHEM 535 Instrumental Methods in Analysis      Credit, 4 hours
A study of chemical principles and instrumental techniques of analytical chemistry. The laboratory is designed to illustrate the use of instruments in both routine analytical and research applications.

CHEM 540 Laboratory Instruction in Chemistry      Credit, 1–6 hours (maximum 3 credit hours per semester)
This course provides a comprehensive study of high school chemistry laboratory instruction. Through participation in lab preparation and instruction with the Alabama Science in Motion program, as well as independent study and projects, students will address practical applications of the lab experience including safety issues, facilities, equipment, techniques, and education goals. Special emphasis will be placed on the development of lab activities that encourage an inquiry approach to learning. Pending scheduling, lab observation and/or instruction with the ASIM Specialist at a participating school may be required. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor and acceptance into a graduate program in secondary science education.

CHEM 545 Special Topics in Chemistry      Credit, 3 hours
A discussion of recent advances in theory, instrumentation, or techniques in analytical, inorganic, or physical chemistry. Topics vary. Course may be repeated for credit as topic changes. Prerequisite: CHEM 222 or consent of instructor.

CHEM 550 Introductory Chemistry Instrumentation      Credit, 1–3 hours
This course is designed to acquaint high school chemistry teachers with the equipment and lab activities available through the Alabama Science in Motion chemistry program. It is taught in conjunction with the ASIM Chemistry Summer Institute. Instruction will include the theory and principles of the equipment available through the program, as well as its practical applications. Lab activities identified as Year 1 labs will be the focus for the introductory course. Special emphasis will be placed on the incorporation of inquiry techniques into laboratory instruction. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor, acceptance into the ASIM Year 1 program, and acceptance into a graduate program in secondary science education.

CHEM 552 Advanced Chemistry Instrumentation      Credit, 1–3 hours
This course is designed to provide a more in-depth view of the equipment available through the Alabama Science in Motion chemistry program, as well as more-advanced lab activities that utilize this equipment. It is taught in conjunction with the ASIM Chemistry Summer Institute. In addition to the focus on lab activities identified as Year 2 labs, the advanced course will provide additional instruction on troubleshooting equipment operation. Special emphasis will be placed on the incorporation of inquiry techniques into laboratory instruction. Prerequisites: Consent of instructor, CHEM 550 and/or acceptance into the ASIM Year 2 program, and acceptance into a graduate program in secondary science education.

CHEM 561 History of Chemistry      Credit, 3 hours
A survey of the historical aspects of the development of chemistry in regard to major breakthroughs and discoveries.

CHEM 565 Chemical Calculations      Credit, 3 hours
Fundamental calculations involving a broad spectrum of chemical principles.

CHEM 580 Special Projects in Chemistry      Credit, 1–6 hours
Individual projects that may include literature survey, project design, data acquisition, and data interpretation. Consent of instructor required.

CHEM 581 Chemistry in the Community      Credit, 3 hours
Study of chemistry in the context of applying chemistry to society. Environmental issues such as water and contaminants, chemical resources, air quality, waste disposal and nuclear chemistry will be discussed.