An exploration of common chemical phenomena, household products, and environmental science designed for non-specialists.
About this course
CHEM 1620 Chemistry in Everyday Life is a 3.0-credit course designed for students who want to understand the science behind the world around them. You do not need a background in chemistry to succeed. The course explores common chemical phenomena, household products, and environmental science for non-specialists.
Topics include the chemistry of cleaning products, food additives, plastics, and air quality. You will learn how to read product labels, understand environmental issues, and apply basic scientific reasoning to everyday situations.
Who takes this course
This course is an elective and is open to all students regardless of their program. It is a popular choice for students in the School of Business & Media, the School of Health Sciences, and the School of Construction & the Environment who want to complete a general education requirement or explore a new subject.
Credits: 3 · Hours: 45
Prerequisites
None
Learning outcomes
- Identify the chemical components in common household products and consumer goods.
- Explain basic chemical reactions that occur in daily life and the natural environment.
- Evaluate the environmental impact of chemical waste and disposal methods.
- Apply scientific principles to make informed decisions about health and safety.
Evaluation
| Component | Weight (%) |
| Midterm examination | 30 |
| Laboratory practicals | 30 |
| Final examination | 40 |