Aims

To give the bases of scientific reasoning, first qualitative, then quantitative, allowing to understand, analyse and forecast simple chemical phenomena. To give a global view of general chemistry from the point of view of matter constitution (atomic theory and chemical bonding), the main classes of reactions and chemical equilibrium. To illustrate the fundamental concepts by referring to examples of mineral chemistry linked to daily life and to the present challenges in science and technology.

Main themes

The course will familiarize with scientific reasoning, the chemical and physico-chemical phenomena and the rules that they depend on. It will deal with (1) the classical atomic theory, leading to understanding the constitution, organisation and properties of atoms (2) mass relationship in chemical reactions and the concept of limiting reagents (3) the description of chemical bonding and the geometry of molecules, (4) the study of the main classes of chemical reactions, (5) an introduction to physical chemistry and its thermodynamic and kinetic aspects, with particular emphasis on chemical equilibrium. The course will cover in detail the acid-base reactions (including pH calculations, acid base titrations and buffer solutions), the reactions of precipitation and complexation, as well as oxido-reduction reactions (including the applications in batteries and electrolysis). Selected illustrations of these concepts will also provide a general overview of mineral chemistry in relation with its main industrial uses and daily life.

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