Chemistry

The base 10 of the metric system allows you to convert between mL and L easily by moving the decimal place. But it's not so easy when using imperial units or a mix of the two. In Module 2, you will learn the very important process of using dimensional analysis for unit conversion. This is a critical skill that you will need to use throughout the course.

In this module, you will need to know 2 new vocabulary words:

1. Equivalence Statement: Two numerical values with different units that are equivalent to one another. For Example, 1000 mL = 1 L

2. Conversion Factor: An equivalence statement written in the form of a fraction. Example:

1000 mL

1 L

You will find posted in this module a PDF file that contains a bunch of English to Metric Equivalence Statements that you can use as a resource on any of the module activities. This file is also posted under the Course Resources folder.

After we've discussed how to do simple conversions, you will learn about a critical unit in chemistry - the mole. No, not the weird little rodents that live underground. This mole (also abbreviated mol) is a tool that helps us work with quantitites of tiny particles without going crazy. In addition to what a mole IS, you'll learn how to determine the molar mass of any element or compound. We will then learn how to use the mole concept to perform mole conversions. You should make sure you thoroughly understand how to perform mole conversions as we will be using this type of conversion in many other units this year.

Complete all activities in order, then check your understanding by completing the checkpoint. If you score 8/10 or higher, great! You've mastered this concept and are ready to move on.

If you score below an 8/10 you should correct your checkpoint and attempt version 2.