Background Main

What is Chemistry?

What is a Reaction?

Si Units

Significant Figures and Measurment Accuracy

Atoms and Molecules

Elements and the Periodic table

Moles, Molarity, and Molality

Practice Problems



Background Information introduces basic concepts and methods used in chemistry. The definitions of chemistry and chemical reactions are presented, as well as international units of measurement and measurement accuracy. Finally, this chapter touches on the fundamental units of matter, atoms and molecules, and how to use the Periodic Table, one of the most important resources in chemistry. Some subjects covered briefly here will be dealt with in much greater detail in future chapters.

In this chapter, we'll learn about:

  • What is Chemistry?
  • What is a Reaction?
  • SI Units
  • Significant Figures and Measurement Accuracy
  • Atoms and Molecules
  • Elements, Compounds, Mixtures, and the Periodic Table
  • Moles, Molarity, and Molality
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