Apr 10, 2026  
2026-2027 IHCC Catalog 
  
2026-2027 IHCC Catalog

CHEM 1061 - Principles of Chemistry I



5 Credits
Includes study of basic chemical theory and application with emphasis upon atomic theory and structure, chemical bonding, inorganic chemical nomenclature, chemical reactions, reaction stoichiometry, periodic relationships, molecular structure, properties of gases and the kinetic molecular theory. The lab component of this course provides the student with the opportunity to apply chemical concepts through observation, data collection, quantitative measurement, problem analysis, and mathematical applications to chemistry. Approved safety goggles and a lab apron are required. Prerequisites: MATH 0940  with a grade of “C” or higher OR higher level placement, either within the last 2 years. Recommended: CHEM 1010  or a full year of advanced high school chemistry within the last 2 years and with a grade of “C” or higher.

Pre-Requisites MATH 0940 

Major Content Areas
Quantum mechanics foundations: quantum numbers and periodic relationships

Chemical bonding foundations: molecular geometry, polarity, VSEPR and valence bond theory.

Chemical nomenclature and formulas

Properties of gases and the kinetic molecular theory

Thermochemistry: laws, enthalpy and enthalpy change in chemical systems.

Chemical bonding foundations: molecular geometry, polarity, VSEPR and Valence Bond Theory

Measurement, significant figures, precision of measurement.

Atomic theory and atomic structure including atoms, molecules and ions.

Types of chemical reactions and balancing chemical equations.

The mole concept, empirical formulas, and molecular formulas.

Chemical, solution and gas stoichiometry.

Chemical, solution and gas stoichiometry

Properties of gases and the Kinetic Molecular Theory

Learning Outcomes
Calculate masses/moles and percent composition of compounds by combustion analysis (empirical and molecular formula) and use stoichiometry to calculate the amounts of reactant and product and percent yield in a variety of chemical reactions.

Identify different reaction types including precipitation, acid-base and redox reactions and be able to write molecular and ionic equations.

Perform calculations involving solution molarity, dilution, gravimetric analysis and titration.

Understand gas behaviors using kinetic molecular theory and apply gas laws in calculations including partial pressures and gas stoichiometry.

Understand quantum theory including dual property of light and electron, quantum numbers, atomic orbitals, electron configurations and periodicity.

Understand basic concepts of thermochemistry including first law of thermodynamics, enthalpy, Hess’s law and calculate enthalpy change of chemical reactions.

Perform calculations involving solution molarity, dilution, gravimetric analysis and titration.

Investigate matter and its interactions using the scientific method.Obtain observations, collect data and make measurements on chemical systems with correct precision in terms of significant figures and apply their rules in calculations for results.

Understand atomic theory including atomic structure and isotope.

Name polyatomic ions, ionic and binary compounds.

Write Lewis structure, determine molecular geometry, polarity, bonding and hybridization using VSEPR and valence bond theory.

Use basic laboratory equipment properly and recognize characteristics of hazardous wastes, handle and dispose chemicals appropriately.

Calculate masses/moles and percent composition of compounds by combustion analysis (empirical and molecular formula) and use stoichiometry to calculate the amounts of reactant and product and percent yield in a variety of chemical reactions.

Understand quantum theory including dual property of light and electron, quantum numbers, atomic orbitals, electron configurations and periodicity.

Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MNTC) Goals
03 - Natural Science

02 - Critical Thinking