Sep 21, 2026  
2026-2027 Catalog 
    
2026-2027 Catalog

CHEM 115 - Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry


PREREQUISITES: MATH 023 - Essentials of Algebra  or MATH 080 - Mathematical Principles  and ENGL 093 - Introduction to College Writing  and ENGL 083 - Reading Strategies for College  or ENGL 095 - Integrated Reading and Writing , or ENGL 075 - Co-Requisite Integrated Reading  
PROGRAM: Physical Sciences
CREDIT HOURS MIN: 4
LECTURE HOURS MIN: 3
LAB HOURS MIN: 2
DATE OF LAST REVISION: Fall 2025

The basic principles of general, organic, and biochemistry will be discussed. This will include measurement, nomenclature, chemical structure, chemical reactions, moles, gases, acids and bases, solutions, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and metabolism. Includes lab.  This course is specifically designed with nursing students in mind. This course is appropriate for individuals pursuing the health sciences and nursing. 

MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course the student will be expected to:

  1. Recognize and differentiate S.I., metric, and USCS units. Perform mathematical calculations involving different units, using scientific notation, dimensional analysis, and significant figures.
  2. Describe modern atomic theory. Differentiate among electrons, protons, and neutrons. Determine the atomic structure of isotopes and apply to nuclear equations.
  3. Distinguish between the different forms of matter, elements, compounds, solutions, and mixtures. Perform solution calculations.
  4. Explain the organizational pattern of the periodic table of elements.
  5. Describe and predict the nature of the chemical bonding and intermolecular forces in ionic compounds, simple covalent compounds, organic compounds and biomolecules. Interpret, draw, and convert between Lewis, condensed, and skeletal structures of simple organic molecules.
  6. Relate names to formulas (and vice versa) for ionic compounds, simple covalent compounds, simple functional groups and organic compounds.
  7. Use the mole concept to relate chemical quantities.
  8. Classify common reaction types and balance chemical reactions.
  9. Understand the relationship between pressure, volume, and temperature relating to the appropriate gas laws and use them in practical applications.
  10. Determine acidity or basicity and describe the chemical behavior of acids, bases, and buffers.Calculate simple pH.
  11. Describe the structure and function of lipids, including phospholipids, soaps, fats, and oils.
  12. Classify carbohydrates, and summarize their biological relevance.
  13. Explain the structure and function of amino acids and proteins; describe enzymes.
  14. Summarize the purpose and structure of nucleic acids; use the genetic code.
  15. Describe metabolic processes including digestion and cellular respiration.
  16. Obtain reproducible data from chemical experiments; analyze, interpret, and communicate the data in a logical and coherent manner, and recognize non-human potential sources of errors when obtaining inaccurate results.
  17. Discuss how to identify reliable sources and use these sources to discuss real world issues.


COURSE CONTENT: Topical areas of study include -
  • Chemical Safety
  • SI Measurements
  • Unit conversions and calculations
  • Classification of Matter
  • Solutions
  • Elements, atoms and Ions
  • Periodic Table
  • Nuclear equations
  • Chemical bonding
  • Inorganic nomenclature
  • Lewis Structures
  • Organic functional groups
  • Organic nomenclature
  • Condensed Formulas
  • Skeletal structures
  • Intermolecular forces
  • Moles 
  • Chemical reactions
  • Gases
  • Acids, Bases, and Buffers
  • Proteins
  • Enzymes
  • Carbohydrates
  • Lipids
  • Nucleic acids
  • Protein Synthesis
  • Metabolism

 
Course Addendum - Syllabus (Click to expand)