2023-2024 Pierce College Catalog 
    
    Dec 18, 2024  
2023-2024 Pierce College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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EMS 160 Introduction to Chemical & Biological Principles (5 credits)



Course Description
Introduction to basic chemical and biological principles.  Topics include molecular structure, energy, chemical bonding, nomenclature, organic compounds, cell structure, cell function, and cell division. Lab included. 

This course is required for students in the EMS program.

Course Content
A. Atoms
B. Molecules
C. Dimensional analysis
D. Energy
E. Periodic Table
F. States and Properties of Matter
G. Chemical bonding
H. Nomenclature
I. Basic stoichiometry
J. Organic compounds
K. Cell structure, function, and cell theory
L. Cell life cycle including mitosis and meiosis division
M. Microscope use and care

Student Outcomes
1. Utilize information contained in the Periodic Table of Elements to determine element properties in order to predict chemical reactivity and chemical interaction.

2. Relate energy changes to chemical equations in order to understand chemical and biological reactions.

3. Apply correct terminology and understanding of cell theory, cell life cycle, and cell physiology.

4. Describe the characteristics of organic compounds and their interactions in biological chemistry. 

5. Describe the process of DNA replication and protein synthesis. 

6. Demonstrate proper hands-on use and care of a compound light microscope.

Degree Outcomes
Critical, Creative, and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.

Natural Science: Graduates use the scientific method to analyze natural phenomena and acquire skills to evaluate authenticity of data/information relative to the natural world.

Lecture Contact Hours 30
Lab Contact Hours 40
Total Contact Hours 70



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