Course program
The course provides fundamental knowledge of general and inorganic chemistry, with particular attention to the theoretical, experimental, and quantitative aspects necessary for understanding chemical phenomena. The course is structured into a theoretical part and numerical stoichiometry exercises that are closely integrated.
CONTENT ORGANIZATION:
Fundamentals of chemistry and atomic structure, Chemical bonding and molecular structure, States of matter and solution properties, Chemical thermodynamics, Chemical equilibrium, Equilibria in aqueous solution, Electrochemistry, Chemical kinetics, Descriptive inorganic chemistry.
Total hours of lectures and exercises: 80 hours (corresponding to 8 CFU)
Prerequisites
To successfully undertake the General and Inorganic Chemistry course, it is essential that students possess:
• Basic knowledge of mathematics: ability to manipulate algebraic equations, solve systems of linear equations, use logarithms and exponentials, work with proportions and percentages
• Basic knowledge of physics: fundamental concepts of mechanics (energy, work, force), elementary thermodynamics (temperature, heat, energy), basic electromagnetism (electric charge, electric field)
• Logical-deductive reasoning skills and systematic quantitative problem-solving abilities
• Knowledge of the International System of Units and ability to perform conversions between different units
It is advisable to possess:
• Familiarity with scientific notation and significant figures
• Elementary knowledge of the structure of matter acquired in secondary school
Notes on prerequisites: No prerequisites are required
Books
- M. Speranza, A. Filippi “Le basi della Chimica” - Edizioni A.L.E. - Roma
- M. Aschi, A. Filippi “Stechiometria - Chimica Generale Attraverso gli Esercizi” - Edizioni A.L.E. - Roma
- M. Speranza, A. Filippi, M. Crucianelli "L’esame di Chimica Generale" - Edizioni A.L.E. – Roma
Teaching mode
The course has the following organization:
• resolution of numerical problems in the classroom
The student will find on the e-learning platform the slides and teaching material (examination procedures, program, recommended texts) useful for the preparation of the exam. It is understood that the slides are a guide to the exam topics, but can never replace the recommended texts and lectures given by the teacher.
Frequency
Attendance requirements
Attendance at lectures and exercises of the General and Inorganic Chemistry course is not mandatory.
However, attendance is strongly recommended because:
• It facilitates better understanding of topics through direct explanation by the instructor and classroom interaction
• It allows participation in guided numerical exercises, fundamental for acquiring the skills necessary to solve stoichiometric problems
• It enables students to benefit from active learning activities and discussions with peers
• It allows direct comparison with the instructor for immediate clarification of doubts and difficulties
• It helps maintain a constant rhythm in study and learning
Exam mode
Learning assessment methods
The final examination aims to verify the achievement of the expected learning outcomes, assessing the acquisition of fundamental theoretical knowledge of general and inorganic chemistry and the ability to apply it in solving quantitative problems.
Type of examination: The learning assessment includes a written exam followed by an oral interview.
1. Written examination (mandatory)
Objective: To verify the student's ability to apply acquired knowledge in solving quantitative stoichiometry problems and to answer theoretical questions.
Exam composition:
• Numerical stoichiometry exercises (3 exercises): stoichiometric calculations, reaction balancing, solution calculations, ideal gases, chemical equilibria, pH, electrochemistry, colligative properties
Administration method: Written exam in person
Duration: 1.5 hours
Grading: The written exam is graded out of thirty. Passing the written exam is a necessary condition to access the oral exam.
Written exam evaluation criteria:
• Correctness of the solution procedure and numerical result (exercises)
• Correct application of formulas and units of measurement
• Appropriate use of significant figures
• Clarity of exposition and logical organization of the answer (theoretical questions)
• Correctness and completeness of theoretical content
• Appropriate use of scientific language and chemical symbols
2. Oral examination (mandatory)
Objective: To deepen and integrate the verification of theoretical knowledge, evaluate critical reasoning ability, scientific language proficiency, and ability to connect different program topics.
Administration method: Oral interview in person
Duration: Approximately 40-50 minutes
Content: The oral interview covers all program topics. The student is asked questions designed to verify:
• In-depth understanding of theoretical principles of general chemistry
• Ability to describe and explain chemical phenomena
• Ability to correlate molecular structure and physicochemical properties
• Ability to apply thermodynamic and kinetic principles
• Knowledge of chemical nomenclature
• Ability to connect different topics critically and thoughtfully
Oral exam evaluation criteria:
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of topics
• Ability to connect different program topics
• Language proficiency and correct use of scientific terminology
• Critical reasoning and analytical ability
• Clarity of exposition
Final grade
The final grade (expressed out of thirty) takes into account both examinations and is determined considering:
• Written exam result (weight: 40%)
• Oral exam result (weight: 60%)
The final grade may vary from the written exam grade based on the quality of the oral performance. The final grade is communicated at the end of the oral exam.
Honors (cum laude) are awarded to students who have demonstrated:
• Excellent mastery of all program topics
• Capacity for critical and independent connection between different concepts
• Particular clarity of exposition and rigor in the use of scientific language
• Excellence in both written and oral examinations
Students with learning disabilities
Students with a diagnosis of Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) or certified disability may request the use of compensatory tools and/or dispensatory measures during examinations, upon presentation of necessary documentation to the instructor and the University Inclusion Service (SASD).
International incoming mobility students
International incoming mobility students may take the exam in English, upon notification to the instructor at least 15 days before the exam date. The program and assessment methods remain unchanged.
Notes:
• Non-attending students follow the same assessment methods as attending students
• For exam session dates, refer to the calendar published on the Study Program website
• Exam registration is mandatory and must be done through the Infostud system
Rationale for assessment choices with respect to expected learning outcomes:
The combination of written and oral examinations allows for a complete and integrated verification of all Dublin Descriptors:
• The written exam primarily verifies the ability to apply knowledge (DD2) through solving quantitative problems and the ability to communicate in written form (DD4)
• The oral exam verifies knowledge and understanding (DD1), making judgments (DD3), oral communication skills (DD4), and learning ability (DD5) through questions requiring connections, critical analysis, and synthesis of content
Lesson mode
Organization of teaching activities
The course consists of 8 CFU divided into theoretical lessons and numerical exercises that are closely integrated.
Delivery mode: In-person teaching
Teaching methodologies adopted:
The course adopts a combination of different teaching methodologies aimed at achieving the expected learning outcomes:
1. Lectures
Lectures are dedicated to the systematic presentation of the theoretical contents of the course. During lectures:
• The fundamental principles of general and inorganic chemistry are illustrated
• Models and theories are presented with multimedia support (presentations, animations, videos)
• Applied examples are discussed to connect theory and practice
• Critical reflection points on chemical phenomena are proposed
• Moments of interaction with students are fostered through questions and guided discussions
2. Numerical stoichiometry exercises
Exercises are closely integrated with theoretical lessons and aim to develop the ability to apply knowledge through guided resolution of quantitative problems. During exercises:
• Systematic problem-solving methods are illustrated
• Exercises of increasing difficulty are solved with detailed explanation of the procedure
• Students are encouraged to actively participate by proposing solution strategies
• Guidance is provided on common errors and strategies to avoid them
• Specific moments are dedicated to clarifying doubts and difficulties
3. Active learning
During lessons, active learning techniques are integrated such as:
• Problem-based learning: presentation of real chemical problems to be solved by applying studied concepts
• Peer instruction: moments of peer discussion on questions posed by the instructor
• Just-in-time teaching: use of brief tests or preliminary questions to identify student difficulties and adapt the lesson accordingly
4. Use of online support tools
The course uses the Moodle platform to:
• Share teaching materials (lecture slides, solved exercises, supplementary material)
• Provide self-assessment exercises with automatic feedback
• Communicate with students (notices, schedule changes, additional materials)
• Promote interaction by receiving students for questions and clarifications
5. Support materials
Students are provided with:
• Lecture slides in PDF format
• Collection of solved and commented exercises
• Proposed exercises with solutions for self-assessment
• Links to online resources (simulations, educational videos, interactive applets)
Consistency between teaching methodologies and expected learning outcomes:
The teaching methodologies adopted are designed to facilitate the achievement of learning outcomes through:
• Lectures develop knowledge and understanding (DD1) by providing a systematic and in-depth presentation of theoretical content
• Numerical exercises develop the ability to apply knowledge (DD2) through systematic practice of solving quantitative problems
• Active learning techniques foster making judgments (DD3) by stimulating critical thinking and problem analysis
• Classroom discussion and use of guided questions develop communication skills (DD4) by encouraging students to express scientific concepts with appropriate language
• Use of the Moodle platform and self-assessment materials support autonomous learning ability (DD5) by providing tools for individual study and progress monitoring
Time organization:
Lessons are held according to the Study Program's academic calendar. The distribution of topics throughout the semester is organized to ensure:
• Logical and gradual progression of content
• Alternation between theoretical topics and practical exercises
• Review and consolidation moments before intermediate assessments
• Adequate time for assimilation of more complex concepts
The detailed program with topics and reference text is available in Field 9 - Programming.
Activities for non-attending students:
Non-attending students have access to all teaching materials through the Moodle platform and can contact the instructor via email for clarifications. The exam program and assessment methods are identical for attending and non-attending students.
However, attendance at lessons is recommended, particularly at numerical exercises, to acquire better mastery of problem-solving techniques.
Student office hours:
The instructor receives students by appointment (to be arranged via email).