Unit C Intro

Unit C Introduction

In this unit you will extend your study of chemical bonding to gain a theoretical understanding of the properties of solutions. The concepts presented in these modules provide a solid foundation for the study of stoichiometry, which is covered in Unit D.

This unit has two modules. The first module, Properties of Solutions, begins with an introduction to the qualitative aspects of solution chemistry. You will learn how solutions are classified and differentiated and why some substances dissolve while others do not. The second half of the module deals with the quantitative nature of solutions, primarily focusing on methods of expressing and calculating concentration. As you work through this module, you will have the opportunity to see how the concepts you learn apply to something you use every day—tap water.

The second module, Acids and Bases, focuses on a key characteristic of successful theories: their ability to accurately predict and/or explain experimental results. If a theory is not able to be used to make accurate predictions and/or explanations of experimental results, it can be restricted, revised, or even replaced. You will see that Arrhenius’s theory of acids and bases was unable to explain experimental results in its original form. However, over time, it has been revised to better predict or explain observations. You will also be introduced to the quantitative aspects of acid-base chemistry and related mathematical formulas.

Together these modules will help you learn how to investigate solutions, describe their physical and chemical properties, and describe solutions qualitatively and quantitatively.

Specifically, you will be able to

• describe the qualitative properties of solutions, acids, and bases
  
  
• communicate the quantitative properties of solutions, acids, and bases
  
  
• evaluate the success of scientific theories based on their ability to predict experimental results
  
  
• investigate the chemistry behind familiar scenarios in everyday life

After you have completed this unit, your assessment will involve an investigation where you will analyze water quality data and complete interpretations and an evaluation of the location where the data was collected.

When you are ready to begin the unit assessment, go to the Unit Assessment section of the course for instructions and a rubric indicating how the written response will be marked.