Atoms, Molecules, and Ions
This series of lessons encompasses the fundamental principles of the chemical substances with which you shall be engaged, providing the primary knowledge requisite for the manipulation of matter through a proper chemical understanding of the physical world.
Early Ideas in Atomic Theory
By the conclusion of this chapter, the diligent pupil shall be brought to a full comprehension of the following: To enunciate with precision the fundamental postulates of Mr. Dalton’s Atomic Theory, regarding the indivisible nature of matter. To employ these same principles in rendering a clear explanation of the Laws of Definite and Multiple Proportions, thereby demonstrating how elements combine in fixed and simple ratios to form chemical compounds.
Evolution of Atomic Theory
Upon the conclusion of this present lesson, the pupil shall be enabled to perform the following: To trace the notable milestones in the advancement of our modern understanding of the Atomic Theory, marking the progress of science through the ages. To summarize and weigh the evidence garnered from the experiments of Mr. J.J. Thomson, Mr. Robert Millikan, and Lord Rutherford, interpreting their discoveries regarding the constitution of matter. To describe with clarity the three distinct subatomic particles which, in their various arrangements, compose the very fabric of the Atom. To define the nature of Isotopes and to provide illustrative examples of the same across a variety of chemical elements.
Atomic Structure and Symbolism
Upon the conclusion of this discourse, the pupil shall be rendered capable of the following exercises: To transcribe and interpret with exactness those symbols which denote the atomic number, the mass number, and the electrical charge of an atom or ion. To define the standard of the atomic mass unit and to comprehend what is meant by the average atomic mass of the elements. To compute, by way of mathematical inquiry, the average atomic mass and the relative abundance of isotopes as they occur in Nature.
Chemical Formulas
Upon the conclusion of this instruction, the pupil shall have attained the following proficiencies: To represent the composition of molecules by use of molecular and empirical formulae, thereby distinguishing between the true number of atoms and their simplest numerical proportions. To delineate the bonding arrangement of atoms within a substance through the drafting of structural formulae, illustrating how the constituent parts are joined in chemical union.
The Periodic Table
Upon the conclusion of this study, the pupil shall be master of the following principles: To state the Periodic Law with due clarity and to explain the elegant arrangement of the elements as they are set forth within the Periodic Table. To predict the general qualities and temperaments of the various elements, based solely upon their appointed station within the said Table. To distinguish between metals, nonmetals, and metalloids, identifying them either by their inherent physical properties or by their geographical placement upon the chemical chart.
Molecular and Ionic Compounds
Upon the conclusion of this lesson, the pupil shall have acquired the following scientific attainments: To define the nature of ionic and molecular (covalent) compounds, distinguishing between those substances formed by the transfer of electrical force and those formed by the sharing of chemical parts. To predict the species of compound likely to be formed from the elements, by observing their relative positions upon the Periodic Table. To determine with mathematical certainty the correct formulae for simple ionic compounds, ensuring the electrical charges are perfectly balanced in union.
Chemical Nomenclature
Upon the conclusion of this final module, the pupil shall be deemed proficient in the following discipline: To derive the proper nomenclature for the various species of inorganic compounds, employing a systematic and rigorous approach to ensure each substance is named with scientific exactitude.