Chemistry in Context

Harvard Summer School

CHEM S-A

Section 1

CRN 35581

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This course is an integrated introduction to general chemistry, taught in a contextual framework of social, environmental, technological, and health issues. It is intended for students with little to no background in chemistry, as well as those who desire to expand their basic understanding of chemistry. The topics covered include atomic structures and properties, stoichiometry, solutions, chemical bonding, energy, thermochemistry, nuclear chemistry, electrochemistry, polymers, chemical equilibrium, basic acids and bases, and an introductory exploration to the wonders and weirdness of the quantum world that shapes our world.

Instructor Info

Lu Wang, PhD

Senior Preceptor in Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University


Wyatt Hurt, MA

Curriculum and Pedagogy Manager and Preceptor, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University


Meeting Info

6/23 to 8/8

Participation Option: Online Synchronous

Deadlines

Last day to register: June 17, 2025

Additional Time Commitments

Required synchronous sections Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:30-8 pm. Required synchronous labs Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:15-9:30 pm. If enrollment permits, additional sections may be added Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm and labs Mondays and Wednesdays, 8:15-9:30 pm. See course syllabus for details.

Prerequisites

No prior background in chemistry is required. Basic knowledge of algebra is helpful.

Notes

This course meets via web conference. Students must attend and participate at the scheduled meeting time. Harvard College students: This course is eligible for degree credit, but see important policy information. Please note: In addition to the scheduled class time and required labs, this course has required recorded lectures and activities that students complete on demand. Please see course syllabus for details. The overall amount of time students spend on this course is equivalent to other 4-credit courses.

Syllabus

All Sections of this Course

CRN Section # Participation Option(s) Instructor Section Status Meets Term Dates
35581 1 Online Synchronous Team Taught Open Jun 23 to Aug 8
36049 2 On Campus Team Taught Open MTWTh 12:00pm - 2:30pm
Jul 14 to Aug 7

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