Chemistry Courses

Introductory course designed primarily for BSc students. Topics covered include atoms, molecules & ions; stoichiometry; thermochemistry; atomic structure & quantum theory; periodic trends - atomic size, ionization, electron affinity; chemical bonding - Lewis structure, VSEPR, polarity, electronegativity, hybridization, hydrocarbons - alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, nomenclature, isomerism, functional groups.

Intended for students (with limited chemistry background) who wish to gain a better understanding of the chemistry in the world around them. The course will cover aspects of: atomic and molecular structure, the periodic table, what chemical names mean, balancing equations (and the relationships involved), acids and bases, nuclear chemistry, radiation and organic compounds. The concepts will be examined in the context of understanding "everyday" chemistry. This course cannot be used as a substitute for any other first level Chemistry course. 

Intended primarily for Engineering students who require an introduction to physical and inorganic chemistry. This course may cover thermochemistry, chemical bonding & molecular structure, gases, intermolecular forces & modern materials, chemical equilibria (acid & base, buffer & solubility), chemical kinetics, chemical thermodynamics, electrochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. 

CHEM 2009 is a project based course where students conduct research under the supervision of a chosen faculty member. Students must have declared a Science Major and must have a CGPA of 3.7 or better to enter after first year or a CGPA of 3.0 or higher to enter after second year. Students will be provided with a list of projects and applicant's names will be forwarded to project supervisors. Applications must be made, by May 15th, to the Saint John Chemistry coordinator who will be in charge of project assignments. Since enrolment may be limited, students are encouraged to plan for alternative courses in the case that no suitable project is available. A minimum of at least 3 scheduled hours per week is required and one seminar presentation will be required at the end of the academic term, as well as a written report. 

A laboratory course involving synthesis and purification of organic compounds, stereochemistry, isolation and structure elucidation of natural compounds (by both qualitative and spectroscopic methods). 

Course will provide students with a chemical basis for understanding the natural environment and current environmental issues. Topics will include: the composition of the natural environment, the chemistry supporting environmental processes, and the main reactions of natural & anthropogenic chemicals in the atmosphere, water, and soils. NOTE: This course may be listed as either BIOL 3245 or CHEM 3245. Credit cannot be obtained for both BIOL 3245 and CHEM 3245.

This course will examine the chemistry, function, biosynthesis and metabolism of primary metabolites. Classes of compounds covered will include carbohydrates, fatty acids, amino acids, peptides, proteins and nucleic acids. NOTE: This course may be listed as either BIOL 3435 or CHEM 3435. Credit cannot be obtained for both BIOL 3435 and CHEM 3435.

This course will examine the biosynthesis, biological activity and ecological significance of secondary metabolites. Topics include: the links between primary and secondary metabolic pathways; an overview of the mechanisms, chemistry and coenzymes involved in the biosynthesis of natural products; the acetate pathway; the Shikimate pathway; the mevalonate and methyl erythritol phosphate pathways; the alkaloids; and chemical ecology. This course maybe listed as either CHEM 4435 or BIOL 4435. Credit cannot be obtained for both CHEM 4435 or BIOL 4435.