Pre-University Chemistry (edX)

Prepare for university by reviewing the science and technology of chemistry. Become familiar with the way chemistry and chemistry-related topics are taught at university level. Chemistry is the fundamental discipline that helps us explain properties, structure, and behavior of matter. A solid foundation in chemistry is of importance in addressing today’s challenges with innovative chemical technological solutions.

Enroll in course

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This course provides you with an opportunity to revisit the fundamentals of chemistry, either out of personal interest or to ensure that you are adequately equipped for the first year of your Bachelor's degree.

You will acquire a solid understanding of the fundamental chemical concepts and see how they can be applied to real-world problems, in areas including: energy transition, chemistry of health and new materials.

The course not only covers the content needed for further study, but it also introduces the different ways in which chemistry is taught at the university-level.

This course is intended for:

Prospective university students who seek a review

High school students who want an additional challenge in chemistry not offered by their school

Students who have already started at university who realize that they have a knowledge gap

Professionals who want to broaden their knowledge or are looking for a refresher course

What you'll learn

After taking this course you will be able to:

- Understand the basics of general chemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry

- Apply principles of chemistry in various science and engineering contexts

- Perform quantitative calculations and apply basic calculus to solve chemical problems

- Combine knowledge from different areas of chemistry to solve advanced problems

Syllabus

Module 1: Energy Transition

An introduction to basic concepts in general chemistry and chemical technology to understand the challenges for (future) chemists and chemical engineers working on the energy transition.

Covered Topics:

- Molecules, bonds, and orbitals

- Balancing a chemical equation

- Redox chemistry

- Reaction mechanism

- Equilibrium reactions

- Chemical technology

Module 2: Chemistry of Health

An introduction to organic chemistry to understand the challenges for (future) chemists and chemical engineers working on medicinal applications.

Covered topics:

- Molecular structure

- Acid-base reactivity

- Organic reaction mechanisms

- Weak forces

- Solutions and solubility

- Biomolecules and macromolecules

Module 3: New Materials

An introduction to inorganic chemistry and materials chemistry to understand the challenges for (future) chemists and chemical engineers working on novel materials.

Covered topics:

- Phase transitions

- Solid Materials

- Metals and conductivity

- Electrochemistry

- Batteries

- Nanochemistry