Dept. of Chemistry & Biochemistry

18111 Nordhoff Street
Northridge, California 91330-8241

Phone: (818) 677-1200
Fax: (818) 677-4068M
E-mail: chemistry@csun.edu

Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8:00am-5:00pm

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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

LOWER DIVISION



CHEM 100. PRINCIPLES OF CHEMISTRY (3)

Prerequisite: A qualifying score on the ELM Examination or satisfying the ELM exemption requirements. A one-semester course based on a systematic, semiempirical approach to the submicroscopic world of chemistry. The development of modern ideas concerning atomic and molecular structure, principles of compound formation, and chemical reactivity will be emphasized. Selected topics in applied chemistry and the application of chemical principles to life and environmental sciences will be explored. Engineering and Science majors should consult with their advisors before enrolling in this course. Credit cannot be earned in both CHEM 103 and 100. 3 hours of lecture per week. Students using this course to satisfy a General Education requirement in Natural Sciences may satisfy the corresponding laboratory requirement by completing CHEM 110L.



CHEM 101. GENERAL CHEMISTRY I (4)

Prerequisite: A satisfactory score on the Chemistry Placement Test (see section on the Chemistry Placement Test). Corequisite: CHEM 101L. A basic course in the fundamental principles and theories with special emphasis on chemical calculations. It includes a discussion of the kinetic molecular theory, atomic structures, and the periodic table, solutions, and oxidation-reduction. The recitation portion deals with problem solving, a review of the lecture material and quizzes. 3 hours of lecture and 1 hour of recitation per week. Students using this course to satisfy a General Education requirement in Natural Sciences will satisfy the corresponding laboratory requirement by completing CHEM 101L .



CHEM 101L. GENERAL CHEMISTRY I LABORATORY (1)

Corequisite: CHEM 101. The laboratory work emphasizes basic laboratory skills, quantitative relationships in chemistry, and inorganic preparative procedures. 3 hours of laboratory per week. Students may use this course to satisfy the laboratory requirement in Natural Sciences of General Education provided that CHEM 101 is also completed.



CHEM 102. GENERAL CHEMISTRY II (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 101/L. Corequisite: CHEM 102L. A continuation of CHEM 101; an introduction to kinetics, gas phase and solution equilibria, electrochemistry, chemical thermodynamics, radiochemistry, organic chemistry and the descriptive chemistry of the more familiar metals and nonmetals. The recitation portion deals with problem solving, a review of the lecture material and quizzes. 3 hours of lecture and 1 hour of recitation per week. Students using this course to satisfy a General Education requirement in Natural Sciences will satisfy the corresponding laboratory requirement by completing CHEM 102L .



CHEM 102L. GENERAL CHEMISTRY II LABORATORY (1)

Corequisite: CHEM 102. The laboratory consists of experiments dealing with kinetics, acid-base and solubility equilibria, selected reactions of metals and nonmetals, and qualitative elemental analysis. 3 hours of laboratory per week. Students may use this course to satisfy the laboratory requirement in Natural Sciences of General Education provided that CHEM 102 is also completed.



CHEM 103, 103L. INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY I (4)

Prerequisite: A qualifying score on the ELM Examination or satisfying the ELM exemption requirements. A course designed for non-science majors, stressing fundamental principles of inorganic chemistry, structure of atoms and molecules, periodic table, states of matter, chemical calculations involving stoichiometry and simple algebraic operations. Not open to science or engineering majors. Credit cannot be earned in both CHEM 103 and 100. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory (with quiz and recitation) per week. Students using this course to satisfy a General Education Requirement in the Natural Sciences will automatically satisfy the laboratory requirement.



CHEM 104, 104L. INTRODUCTORY CHEMISTRY II (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 103. A continuation of CHEM 103. A course for non-science majors. Properties of solutions, chemical equilibrium, acids and bases. The chemistry of simple organic compounds and common elements. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory (with quiz and recitation) per week. Not open to science or engineering majors. Students using this course to satisfy a General Education requirement in Natural Sciences will automatically satisfy the laboratory requirement.



CHEM 110. CHEMISTRY IN ACTION (3)

A one-semester course introducing chemistry and its relation to technological advances and their impact on our society and the environment. 3 hours of lecture per week. Students using this course to satisfy a General Education requirement in Natural Sciences may satisfy the corresponding laboratory requirement by completing CHEM 110L.



CHEM 110L. CHEMISTRY IN ACTION LABORATORY (1) (Formerly 105 L)

Corequisite: CHEM 110 or 105. A laboratory-demonstration course designed to accompany CHEM 110. Laboratory experiments and demonstrations to augment lecture material will be performed. The student will also be introduced to some basic laboratory skills. One 3-hour laboratory session a week. No credit for Science and Engineering majors. This course may be used to satisfy the laboratory requirement in Natural Sciences of General Education provided CHEM 105 or 110 is also completed.



CHEM 235. INTRODUCTORY ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 102 or 104. A course describing simple aliphatic and aromatic compounds with emphasis on chemistry of functional groups. 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of laboratory per week. No credit for Science and Engineering majors except for certain options in Biology, Geology, and Physics; consult your major department. This course does not substitute for CHEM 333.



UPPER DIVISION



CHEM 321. CHEMICAL ANALYSIS I (2)

Prerequisite: CHEM 102. Corequisite: CHEM 321L. A course emphasizing the principles of analytical reactions, and the theory and applications of instruments to problems of chemical analysis. Principal topics include volumetric methods and instrumental techniques such as spectrophotometry, electrochemistry, and chromatography. 2 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 321L. CHEMICAL ANALYSIS I LABORATORY (2)

Corequisite: CHEM 321. An introduction to the experimental methods of analytical chemistry based on the theory covered in CHEM 321. Emphasis is placed on the development of careful and accurate laboratory technique. Two 3-hour laboratory periods per week.



CHEM 333. PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 102. Study of aliphatic and aromatic compounds. Special emphasis on functional groups and their reactions. Attention is given to representative compounds of interest in biology and medicine. 3 lecture hours and one 3-hour laboratory per week.



CHEM 333R. PROBLEM SOLVING IN ORGANIC CHEMISTRY I (1)

Corequisite: CHEM 333. A critical analysis of topics introduced in Principles of Organic Chemistry I, CHEM 333. Structured group work will be used to develop essential analysis and problem-solving skills. Class meets 2 hours per week. (Credit/No Credit only.)



CHEM 334. PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIC CHEMISTRY II (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 333. A continuation of CHEM 333. 3 hours of lecture and one 3-hour laboratory per week. Does not substitute for 332 in B.S. Chemistry and B.A. Chemistry programs.



CHEM 351. PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY I (4)

Prerequisites: CHEM 102, MATH 250 (or corequisite), PHYS 220A. Basic laws of thermodynamics, states and changes of state, solutions, equilibria, phase rule, kinetic molecular theory, chemical kinetics, and electrochemistry. 4 lecture hours per week. (Offered fall semester.)



CHEM 352. PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY II (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 321, 321L, 351, PHYS 220B, MATH 280 (or corequisite). A continuation of CHEM 351. Quantum mechanics, atomic and molecular structure, spectroscopy, and statistical mechanics. 3 hours of lecture per week. Chemistry B.S. majors must take CHEM 352L concurrently. (Offered spring semester.)



CHEM 352L. PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY II LABORATORY (2)

Corequisite: CHEM 352. An introduction to the experimental methods of physical chemistry based on the theory covered in both semesters of the physical chemistry sequence. 6 hours of laboratory per week. (Offered spring semester.)



CHEM 355. FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY (3)

Prerequisites: CHEM 102, 321, 321L, M A T H 150B or 255B, PHYS 100A. Corequisite: PHYS 100B. A short course in physical chemistry, presenting such topics as thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, solutions of electrolytes, reaction kinetics, quantum chemistry, spectroscopy, and the properties of macromolecules with special applications to the life sciences. 3 hours of lecture per week. No credit for Engineering or Physics majors. Does not substitute for 351 in B.S. program. (Offered fall semester.)



CHEM 355L. EXPERIMENTAL PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY (1)

Prerequisite: CHEM 355 or corequisite. A laboratory course for the non-chemistry major or B.A. chemistry major taking CHEM 355. Selected experiments illustrating some of the important physiochemical concepts covered in CHEM 355 are performed. Not open to B.S. chemistry majors. 3 hours of laboratory per week. (Offered fall semester.)



CHEM 365. INTRODUCTION TO BIOCHEMISTRY (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 235. A course designed for non-science majors, describing chemistry and metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, hormones, etc. 3 hours of lecture and one 3-hour laboratory per week. No credit for Science or Engineering majors except for certain options in Biology and Physics; consult your major department.



CHEM 401. INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 352 or 355. Principles of chemical bonding and molecular structure; survey of the chemistry of the elements of the periodic system. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 401L. INORGANIC CHEMISTRY LABORATORY (1)

Corequisite: CHEM 401. The synthesis and characterization of inorganic and organometallic compounds. Synthetic techniques important to inorganic chemistry such as electrochemical synthesis, autoclave reactions, inert atmosphere techniques as well as inorganic spectroscopic techniques.



CHEM 411. SYNTHESIS (3)

Prerequisites: CHEM 332 and 401 or CHEM 334 and 401. Preparation of inorganic and organic compounds and their identification, using advanced methods. 1 hour of lecture and 6 laboratory hours per week.



CHEM 422. CHEMICAL ANALYSIS II (2)

Prerequisite: CHEM 321. Corequisite: CHEM 322L. A continuation of CHEM 321 with special emphasis on polarography and voltammetry, chromatography, spectrophotometric methods, x-ray diffraction and radiochemical methods. 2 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 422L. CHEMICAL ANALYSIS II LABORATORY (2)

Corequisite: CHEM 322. A laboratory course based on the analytical chemistry principles covered in CHEM 322. Two 3-hour laboratory periods per week.



CHEM 433. ORGANIC ANALYSIS (3)

Prerequisites: CHEM 332 and 321/L. Identification of organic compounds, involving qualitative and quantitative determinations. One lecture and 6 laboratory hours per week. (Offered fall semester.)



CHEM 451. MODERN PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 352. Selected topics in modern physical chemistry, including atomic and molecular structure and spectra, the chemical bond, intermolecular forces, interaction of matter with fields and the solid state. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 461. BIOCHEMISTRY I (4)

Prerequisites: CHEM 321/L and 334 or 332. Corequisite: CHEM 355. A study of protein structure and function enzyme mechanisms, biological membranes, carbohydrate metabolism, ATP generation and lipid metabolism. 3 hours of lecture and one 3-hour laboratory period per week. (Offered fall semester.)



CHEM 462. BIOCHEMISTRY II (4)

Prerequisites: CHEM 461 or consent of instructor. A continuation of CHEM 461 that studies photosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, lipoproteins, metabolic inter relationships and regulation, information transfer, and biochemical basis of disease. 3 hours of lecture and one 3-hour laboratory per week. (Offered spring semester.)



CHEM 464. PRINCIPLES OF BIOCHEMISTRY (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 334 or 332. CHEM 321/L strongly recommended. Properties and metabolism of the constituents of biological systems. Mechanism of enzyme action, energy relations in biological systems. 3 hours of lecture, one 3-hour laboratory per week.



CHEM 465. TOPICS IN BIOCHEMISTRY (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 462 or consent of instructor. A seminar in major recent developments in biochemistry. 3 hours of lecture per week. (Offered fall semester.)



CHEM 471. CHEMICAL LITERATURE, INFORMATION RETRIEVAL & PRESENTATION (1)

Prerequisites: Open only to junior and senior Science majors and graduate students in Science. The use of the chemical literature including abstracts and computer retrieval systems. Preparation of manuscripts and oral presentations. One hour of lecture per week.



CHEM 481. NUCLEAR AND RADIOCHEMISTRY (4)

Prerequisite: CHEM 352 or 355. Study of the atomic nucleus and its properties. Description of nuclear phenomena and an introduction to nuclear theory. In the laboratory, techniques for the study of radionuclides and the application of isotopic tracers to problems in biology, chemistry, geology, and physics will be explored. 2 lectures and two 3-hour laboratory periods per week.



CHEM 495. DIRECTED UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH (1-3)

Prerequisites: One course beyond CHEM 102 in the area related to the research. Interested students should make arrangements with the department as soon as possible, preferably during the previous semester. A course designed for students of advanced rank and proven competence in chemistry. A program of original independent research, culminating in a written report, to be carried out under the direction of one of the Chemistry faculty. Upon prior approval by the Chemistry Department of a detailed research proposal, the research may be performed in industrial or medical laboratories. In such a case, the research report must be submitted to and evaluated by a designated member of the Chemistry faculty. This course may be repeated for credit. No credit towards M.S. degree.



CHEM 499. INDEPENDENT STUDY (1-3)

See independent study under courses of study.



GRADUATE

Graduate students should refer to Graduate Programs.

CHEM 502. ADVANCED INORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 401. A study of molecular structure of inorganic compounds; coordination chemistry; kinetics and mechanisms of inorganic reactions. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 531. SURVEY OF ORGANIC REACTIONS (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 332. A detailed survey of the ranges of application and mechanisms of organic oxidations, reductions, additions, eliminations, condensations and degradations with specific reference to their applications to problems of synthesis and structure elucidation. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 534. ADVANCED ORGANIC CHEMISTRY (3) (Formerly 434)

Prerequisites: CHEM 332 or 334 and 352 or 355. Physical and physiochemical consideration of organic chemistry. Kinetics, configuration. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 538. NATURAL PRODUCTS (3) (Formerly 438)

Prerequisite: CHEM 332 or 334. The chemistry and biosynthesis of naturally-occurring compounds including alkaloids, steroids, terpenes, and mold metabolites, based on structure elucidation, synthesis, biosynthetic considerations, and physiological properties. Use of modern methods for structure determination and application of unique structural features in theoretical chemistry. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 541. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY I (2)

Prerequisite: CHEM 322/L or approval of the instructor. Corequisite: CHEM 541L. A comprehensive survey of the earth's natural processes in atmosphere, water and soil, and the chemical aspects of the impact that human activities have produced in the natural environment. In addition, topics such as energy resources, hazardous waste management/treatment, and risk assessment will be discussed. 2 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 541L. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY I LABORATORY (2)

Prerequisite: CHEM 322/L or approval of the instructor. Corequisite: CHEM 541. Application of chemical and instrumental methods for the identification and quantification of inorganic and organic contaminants present in water, soil, and air samples using E.P.A. approved methodologies and protocols. 6 hours of laboratory per week.



CHEM 542. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY II (1)

Prerequisite: CHEM 541/L or approval of the instructor. Corequisite: CHEM 542L. An advanced-level discussion of topics in air, water and soil pollution. It includes the role of humic substances in natural waters, stratospheric ozone depletion, acid rain, photochemical smog, soil and treatment technologies. Case studies on soil and water pollution will also be discussed. 1 hour of lecture per week.



CHEM 542L. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY II LABORATORY (2)

Prerequisite: CHEM 541/L or approval of instructor. Corequisite: CHEM 542. An advanced level experimental investigation on the identification and analysis of contaminated water, air, and soil samples will be carried out. Experiments using latest treatment technologies will be conducted to understand the application of chemical and biochemical concepts toward solving environmental problems. In addition, experiments to characterize complex environmental systems will be undertaken. 6 hours of laboratory per week.



CHEM 551. CHEMICAL THERMODYNAMICS (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 352. Thermodynamic properties of pure systems, mixtures, electrochemical systems, surface phases and systems under the influence of external fields; equilibria and thermodynamics of chemical reactions. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 552. QUANTUM CHEMISTRY (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 451. The elements of wave mechanics and the application to chemical problems. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 553. CHEMICAL KINETICS (3)

Prerequisite: CHEM 352. A critical consideration of the kinetics of reactions in gaseous and condensed phases, experimental methods, treatment of data, catalysis and chain reactions. Recent developments in the theory of reaction rates. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 554. MACROMOLECULES (3) (Formerly 453)

Prerequisite: CHEM 352. Physical chemistry of high molecular weight compounds, ultracentrifuge, electrophoresis, light scattering. 3 hours of lecture per week.



CHEM 595A-Z. SPECIAL TOPICS (1-3)

Prerequisite: Consent of advisor and instructor. Specialized topics from a concentrated field of current interest presented at an advanced level. Since the topic chosen will be different each semester, students may take this course more than once with approval.



CHEM 599. INDEPENDENT STUDY (1-3)



CHEM 691. LITERATURE SEMINAR (1)

Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of the instructor in charge. Oral reports by graduate students on important topics from the current literature in chemistry.



CHEM 692. THESIS SEMINAR (1)

Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of the instructor in charge. Oral reports by graduate students on results of their thesis research. Before presenting the report, a student must submit a rough draft of the MS thesis to the graduate student's thesis committee and to the Department of Chemistry as a whole.



CHEM 696. DIRECTED GRADUATE RESEARCH (1-7)

Prerequisite: Classified status and consent of a faculty member who will serve as thesis advisor. A program of research conducted under the direction of the thesis advisor in an area of interest to the student. This course may be repeated but no more than seven units are allowed toward the MS degree.



CHEM 698. THESIS (1-3)

Prerequisite: Classified standing and consent of advisor. For the MS degree: Thesis will include the preparation and writing of the master's thesis. The course may be repeated once but not more than three units are allowed towards the MS degree