Dimensional analysis: unit conversion. Structure of the periodic table. Knowledge of basical chemical nomenclature and terminology. States of matter and state transitions. Meaning of chemical formulas.
The exam is done through a written test of 90 minutes and an oral examination that takes place in the following days. Both tests are mandatory.To pass the written test 6 out of 10 questions/exercises must be completed correctly. The written test consists of ten questions, of both theoretical and calculation, about the general chemistry program and its passing is a condition for admission to the oral test. The oral test covers the part of environmental chemistry. During the written examination it is required to have at hand a periodic table including thermodynamic and electrochemical data and a calculator: no other materials can be used during the test.
Structure of the atom and periodic properties. The chemical bond: covalent bond, ionic bond, metallic bond. Intermolecular forces. Classification of solids. Moles and molar mass. Simple stoichiometric calculations. Limiting agent. The ideal gas law. Gas mixtures and partial pressures. Calorimetry. Thermochemistry. Principles of thermodynamics. Enthalpy, entropy, free energy. Hess's law. One-component state diagrams. Solutions. Units of concentration. Kinetics: rate of reaction, integrated kinetic laws, collision theory. Chemical equilibrium. Le Chatelier's principle. Equilibrium constant. Law of mass action. Acid-base equilibria. Calculation of pH. Titrations. Reactions of oxidation-reduction. Electrochemistry. Batteries. Faraday's laws. Basic organic chemistry: alkanes, alkenes and their chlorinated derivatives, common functional groups, benzene and chlorinated benzenes. Toxic heavy metals: mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic and chromium. Toxic organic compounds: pesticides, dioxins, furans, PCBs, PAHs, environmental estrogens and flame retardants.
