Chemistry Courses

CHEM 140 (4) Chemistry Fundamentals I

This course examines atomic structure and periodicity, chemical bonding theories, molecular geometry, with an emphasis on material properties. An introduction to organic molecules, functional groups and properties of polymers is included. The laboratory sessions focus on qualitative and quantitative analysis. CHEM 140 was formerly called CHEM 122; credit will not be granted for both courses. Credit will only be granted for one of CHEM 150 or CHEM 140. (4:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Chemistry 11 or Chemistry 12, or equivalent, and min. "C+" in one of Foundations of Mathematics 12, Pre-calculus 12, or MATH 152. Chemistry 12 and Pre-Calculus 12 are recommended.

CHEM 140A (3) Chemistry Fundamentals I Theory

This theory-based course examines atomic structure and periodicity, chemical bonding theories, molecular geometry, with an emphasis on material properties, and does not include a laboratory component. Students should also complete CHEM 140L if their program requires a laboratory. CHEM 140A with CHEM 140L is equivalent to CHEM 140. (4:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Chemistry 11 or 12, and min. "C+" in one of Foundations of Mathematics 12, Pre-calculus 12, or MATH 152.

CHEM 140L (1) Chemistry Fundamentals I Laboratory

This is the co-requisite laboratory course that focuses on qualitative and quantitative analysis and complements the topics covered in CHEM 140A. Students must enrol in CHEM 140A concurrently or have prior credit for CHEM 140A in order to take CHEM 140L. CHEM 140L with CHEM 140A is equivalent to CHEM 140. (0:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Chemistry 11 or 12, and min. "C+" in one of Foundations of Mathematics 12, Pre-calculus 12, or MATH 152.

Co-requisites: CHEM 140A.

CHEM 141 (4) Chemistry Fundamentals II

A continuation of first year chemistry. CHEM 141 is designed for students who do not meet the Chemistry 12 pre-requisite for CHEM 142. It shares the same lecture topics, laboratories, and final examination as CHEM 142 but it includes an extra hour of lecture instruction per week. CHEM 141 was formerly called CHEM 111; credit will not be granted for both courses. Credit will only be granted for one of CHEM 142 or CHEM 141. (5:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 140.

CHEM 141A (3) Chemistry Fundamentals II Theory

For students who do not meet the Chemistry 12 prerequisite of CHEM 142A or 142. This theory-based course covers the same topics as CHEM 142A or 142 with an extra lecture hour of weekly instruction. Students should also complete CHEM 142L if their program requires a laboratory. CHEM 141A with CHEM 142L is equivalent to CHEM 141. Credit will only be granted for one of CHEM 142A or CHEM 141A. (5:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in either CHEM 140A or CHEM 140.

CHEM 142 (4) Chemistry Fundamentals II

This course examines stoichiometry, thermochemistry, properties of gases, kinetics, acids and bases, solubility, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry with an emphasis on the environment. Laboratory sessions focus on quantitative and qualitative skills. Open only to students who have a Chemistry 12 background. CHEM 142 was formerly called CHEM 121; credit will not be granted for both courses. Credit will only be granted for one of CHEM 141 or CHEM 142. (4:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Chemistry 12 or equivalent, and min. "C-" in either CHEM 140 or CHEM 150.

CHEM 142A (3) Chemistry Fundamentals II Theory

This theory-based course examines stoichiometry, thermochemistry, properties of gases, kinetics, acids and bases, solubility, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry with an emphasis on the environment and does not include a laboratory component. Students should also complete CHEM 142L if their program requires a laboratory. CHEM 142A with CHEM 142L is equivalent to CHEM 142. Credit will only be granted for one of CHEM 141A or CHEM 142A. (4:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in either Chemistry 12 or equivalent, and min. "C-" in one of CHEM 140 or 140A.

CHEM 142L (1) Chemistry Fundamentals II Laboratory

This is the co-requisite laboratory course that focuses on qualitative and quantitative analysis and complements the topics covered in either CHEM 142A or 141A. Students must enrol in one of CHEM 142A or 141A concurrently or have prior credit for CHEM 142A or 141A in order to take CHEM 142L. CHEM 142L with CHEM 142A or 141A is equivalent to either CHEM 142 or CHEM 141, respectively. (0:0:3)

Prerequisite: Both of CHEM 140A and CHEM 140L, or CHEM 140.

Co-requisites: CHEM 141A or CHEM 142A.

CHEM 150 (4) Engineering Chemistry

A survey of general first year chemistry. Topics include thermochemistry, atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, solutions and phase equilibria, equilibrium, chemical thermodynamics, and electrochemistry. Credit will only be granted for one of CHEM 121 or CHEM 150. (4:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C+" in Chemistry 12 and min. "C+" in one of Pre-calculus 12, Principles of Mathematics 12, MATH 152, or equivalent.

CHEM 212 (3) Environmental Chemical Analysis

Introduction to quantitative chemical analysis of water, sediments and biological samples. Additional topics include environmental sampling, quality control and the application of statistics in a laboratory setting. Labs include the analysis of dissolved gases, nutrient ions, metals and organic contaminants by volumetric, electrochemical, spectroscopic and chromatographic methods. Credit will only be granted for one of CHEM 311 or CHEM 212. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 141 or CHEM 142.

CHEM 213 (3) Practical Spectroscopy

An advancement of the principles and application of a variety of spectroscopic methods for the analysis and characterization of organic and inorganic molecules. Included are UV-visible, infrared, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, as well as mass spectrometric methods. (3:2:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in either CHEM 212 or CHEM 231.

CHEM 222 (3) Inorganic Chemistry

An introduction to the properties of main group and transition metal compounds. Topics include electronic and molecular structure of inorganic compounds; periodic trends; acid/base and redox properties; molecular symmetry and group theory; and an introduction to coordination compounds. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in one of CHEM 141, CHEM 142 or CHEM 150.

CHEM 231 (4) Organic Chemistry I (Effective Sep 2024)

This course examines carbon-containing compounds, which are ubiquitous in everyday life, through the study of their structure and function (acid/base, stereochemistry, aromaticity), IR and NMR spectroscopy, and an introduction to chemical reactions. The course includes green chemistry principles and more environmentally-benign alternatives to traditional methods. (4:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in either CHEM 141 or CHEM 142.

CHEM 232 (4) Organic Chemistry II (Effective Sep 2024)

This course continues the examination of carbon-containing compounds from CHEM 231. It focusses on the reactivity of functional groups, their preparation and inter-conversion, with applications to bio-molecular chemistry and organic synthesis. The course includes green chemistry principles and more environmentally-benign alternatives to traditional methods. (4:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 231.

CHEM 241 (3) Physical Chemistry

An introduction to the fundamentals of chemical thermodynamics, including internal energy, enthalpy, entropy and free energy as they apply to physical and chemical equilibria. The laboratory emphasizes fundamental measurements in physical chemistry. CHEM 241 was formerly called CHEM 221; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: MATH 101 or MATH 122, and min "C-" in one of CHEM 141, CHEM 142, or CHEM 150.

CHEM 299 Essential Chemistry Lab Skills

This course covers essential, hands-on skills needed to complete the learning objectives of existing second year chemistry courses when they cannot be met through conventional face-to-face experiential learning activities. Successful completion is required to receive credit for an associated approved CHEM course. May be taken more than once. (0:0:3)

Prerequisite: Completion of the associated approved CHEM course. Permission of the instructor.

CHEM 300 (3) Green Chemistry and Toxicology

This course will introduce the principles of chemical toxicology and green chemistry, culminating in the study of real-world case studies. Students will conduct human health risk assessments, analyze for environmental toxicity, and compare the toxicological consequences and environmental impacts of traditional and green chemistry practices. (3:1:0)

Prerequisite: Third-year standing with a min. "C-" in CHEM 231.

CHEM 301 (3) Aqueous Environmental Chemistry

An introduction to the properties and chemical composition of natural waters with an emphasis on chemical equilibria in controlling solubility and gas exchange. The role of pH, redox, complexation, and ion-exchange on chemical speciation, distribution, and remediation will be examined. Topics include acid mine drainage, wastewater treatment, and water purification technologies. (3:1:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 141 or CHEM 142. (Min "C" in CHEM 141 is strongly recommended.) CHEM 221 and CHEM 222 are recommended.

CHEM 302 (3) Atmospheric Environmental Chemistry

Introduction to the structure, composition and chemical processes occurring in the atmosphere with an emphasis on the application of kinetics to gas phase reactions. The fate, distribution and abatement of atmospheric contaminants is examined. Topics include acid rain, photochemical smog, stratospheric ozone depletion and greenhouse gases. Not offered every year. (3:1:0)

Prerequisite: Third-year standing with a min. "C-" in CHEM 141 or CHEM 142.

CHEM 312 (3) Principles of Instrumental Analysis

This course examines the theory of instrumental methods with an emphasis on the analytical techniques employed for quantitative and qualitative chemical measurements. These include optical, chromatographic, electrochemical and mass spectrometric techniques. The lab exposes students to method development with an emphasis on instrument design, calibration and data evaluation. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 212.

CHEM 323 (3) Bio-Inorganic Chemistry

An introduction to the properties, function, and spectroscopic study of biological metal complexes. Topics will include the management of trace metals in biological systems, metal complexes responsible for oxygen transport and redox processes, and the structure and function of metalloenzymes. Not offered every year. CHEM 323 was formerly called CHEM 322; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 222.

CHEM 325 (3) Coordination Chemistry

Introduction to the coordination chemistry, sources, and industrial applications of transition metal elements. Topics include the geometric and electronic structure of transition metal complexes; spectroscopic and magnetic properties; and concepts applied to processes of environmental relevance involving chelation and speciation. Not offered every year. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 222.

CHEM 334 (3) Bio-Organic Chemistry

A survey of advanced concepts in organic chemistry through the study of organic molecules and mechanisms occurring in nature. Strategies employed in the modification of biomolecules for the design of novel pharmaceuticals and biocatalysts will be presented. Topics also include molecular recognition and biomimetics. Not offered every year. CHEM 334 was formerly called CHEM 332; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 232.

CHEM 335 (3) Synthetic Methods in Organic Chemistry

A study of advanced synthetic methodologies used in modern organic synthesis. Emphasis will be placed on carbon-carbon bond formation, stereochemical control, protection/deprotection schemes, and retro-synthetic analysis. Not offered every year. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 232.

CHEM 341 (3) Reaction Kinetics and Mechanisms

An advanced examination of reaction mechanisms and rate laws in organic and inorganic chemistry with an emphasis on their determination from experimental data. Topics include the concepts of reaction co-ordinates, transition states (Hammond postulate), activation energy, free energy, enthalpy and entropy. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 222 and CHEM 232.

CHEM 351 (4) Integrated Organic and Inorganic Laboratory (Effective Sep 2024)

This laboratory builds competency in techniques used in organic and inorganic synthesis, separations and spectroscopic characterization. Students work independently on experiments and contribute data to some team projects. Procedures for handling air and water sensitive reagents will be advanced. (0:0:8)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of CHEM 213, CHEM 222, and CHEM 232. CHEM 213 can be taken concurrently.

CHEM 352 (4) Integrated Physical Chemistry Laboratory (Effective Sep 2024)

This laboratory builds competencies in techniques used to examine the kinetic, mechanistic, and structure-reactivity principles which underlie all areas of chemistry with examples that emphasize environmental and biological systems. Students work independently on experiments and contribute data to some team projects. (0:0:8)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in each of CHEM 212, CHEM 231, and CHEM 241.

CHEM 380 (3) Independent Work Experience in Chemistry

An opportunity to learn about Chemistry through relevant employment and/or research experience over 15 weeks. Projects may be related to industry, government or academia and may also include service-learning in areas of chemical education and chemistry in society. Requires project approval by Chemistry Faculty member and permission of department Chair. (0:0:0 -525)

Prerequisite: 15 credits of 200-level or higher CHEM courses and permission of Chair.

CHEM 390 (3) Field Studies in Chemistry

This course is designed to introduce students to project planning, environmental sampling, field analysis and data handling in a real world setting. Students contribute work on a group project to be determined by the instructor. The course delivery includes informal classroom presentation and on-site field-work. Not offered every year. (5:0:10 -60 for 3 weeks)

Prerequisite: Third-year standing in Chemistry.

CHEM 398 (3) Topics in Advanced Chemistry

This course presents an extension of a core area of chemistry (organic, inorganic, physical, analytical) that will be unique to each offering. The topics to be covered, and the specific 200-level CHEM prerequisites, will be announced on the Chemistry Department's website each spring. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Six credits of 200-level CHEM courses. Additional prerequisites, depending on the topic to be studied, may be in effect.

CHEM 400 (3) Emerging Topics and Professional Practice in Chemistry

This is a seminar-based course with special topics presented by faculty, students, and guest lecturers from academic, industry, and government agencies. Selected readings and seminars on topics including current literature, professional ethics, regulatory frameworks, employment readiness, and the role of the chemist in society. (0:3:0)

Prerequisite: Third-year standing in Chemistry.

CHEM 401 (3) Chemical Oceanography

A study of the distribution and fate of elements in seawater including both chemical and physical interactions with the atmosphere, biosphere and sediments. Topics include the history of oceanography, ocean circulation, the carbon cycle, production, export, and remineralization of organic matter, micronutrients, and human-induced changes. Not offered every year. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Third-year standing with a min. "C-" in CHEM 141 or CHEM 142.

CHEM 412 (3) Advanced Topics in Analytical Chemistry

This course examines selected advanced and emerging analytical techniques, including raman, electroanalytical, x-ray fluorescence, multidimensional chromatography, immunoassays, bio-molecular methods, and advanced mass spectrometric strategies. Special topics include miniaturization, high throughput methods, 'lab-on-a-chip', and direct analysis strategies as well as methods associated with the characterization of new materials and surface phenomena. (3:0:3)

Prerequisite: Min "C-" in CHEM 312.

CHEM 431 (3) Environmental Organic Chemistry

This course will examine mechanisms of organic transformations and the fate of molecules of environmental significance. The course will focus on structure-reactivity relationships in physical organic chemistry. Topics include environmental partitioning, hydrolysis, oxidation-reduction and photolysis reactions under environmental conditions. CHEM 431 was formerly called CHEM 331; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 231 and CHEM 241.

CHEM 432 (3) Macromolecular Chemistry of Biomolecules

An introduction to the characterization and organic reactivity of the major biomolecules including chemical strategies applied to their synthesis and study. Emphasis will be on the mechanistic and methodological aspects of chemistry used to synthesize, label or modify biomolecules and biomolecule characterization using modern techniques. Not offered every year. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in CHEM 232 and BIOL 201.

CHEM 433 (3) Natural Products Chemistry

A study of the biosynthesis of natural products that are fundamental to the ecological interactions between organisms, including humans. Topics include structural diversity, biosynthetic pathways, marine and terrestrial chemical ecology, the use of natural products as medicine, and indigenous perspectives on natural products. This course is not offered every year. CHEM 433 was formerly called CHEM 333; credit will not be granted for both courses. (3:1:0)

Prerequisite: Min. "C-" in BIOL 201 and CHEM 232.

CHEM 441 (3) Bonding, Structure, and Properties

This course uses molecular orbital theory to describe the bonding and properties of discrete organic and inorganic molecules, crystalline and amorphous solids, and nanomaterials. Structure-property relationships are examined as well as selected methods for the characterization of structure and properties of materials. Students will gain experience with computational modelling methods. (3:0:0)

Prerequisite: Min "C-" in both CHEM 222 and CHEM 231.

CHEM 490 (3) Independent Project Lab

A one-semester independent research project lab course carried out under the supervision of a Faculty advisor. Evaluation is based on a combination of proficiency, progress and final report. Requires project approval and permission of department Chair. (0:0:8)

Prerequisite: 9 upper-level CHEM credits that includes at least 3 credits of CHEM 312, 351, or 352.

CHEM 491 (6) Undergraduate Research Project

A two-semester independent research project lab course carried out under the supervision of a Faculty advisor. Evaluation is based on a combination of proficiency, progress and final report. Requires project approval and permission of department Chair. (0:0:8 for 30 weeks)

Prerequisite: Fourth-year standing and 9 upper-level CHEM credits that includes at least 3 credits of CHEM 312, 351, or 352.