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1: Introduction to Science

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    483336
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    • 1.1: Science and Technology
    • 1.2: The Scientific Method
      Scientists search for answers to questions and solutions to problems by using a procedure called the scientific method. This procedure consists of making observations, formulating hypotheses, and designing experiments, which in turn lead to additional observations, hypotheses, and experiments in repeated cycles
    • 1.3: Measurement and Scientific Notation
      Measurements in chemistry are reported with a variety of units. The standard units for various measurements are discussed along with the modifying prefixes for these units.
    • 1.4: Significant Figures and Scientific Notation
      Significant figures are important in reporting values because the numbers used in chemistry are based on measurements.  The precision of a measurement should not be under- or over-reported through the use of the wrong number of significant figures.
    • 1.5: Measuring Matter
      Scientists use all kinds of equipment to measure matter.  Balances are used to measure mass while pipettes are used to measure volume. Errors in measurements can be made if the scientist does not know how to properly use the equipment or if the equipment is damaged. It is important that you know the types of equipment a scientists uses and the basic units that are found on the equipment. In addition, memorize and be able to apply the necessary conversion factors for this course.
    • 1.6: Dimensional Analysis
      Units can be converted to other units using the proper conversion factors. Conversion factors are constructed from equalities that relate two different units. Conversions can be a single step or multistep. Unit conversion is a powerful mathematical technique in chemistry that must be mastered.
    • 1.7: Density
      Density is a physical property that is defined as a substance’s mass divided by its volume. Density is usually a measured property of a substance, so its numerical value affects the significant figures in a calculation. Notice that density is defined in terms of two dissimilar units, mass and volume. That means that density overall has derived units, just like velocity.


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