Introduction to Chemistry: Structures and Solutions

Duke follows introductory reaction chemistry with electronic structure, bonding and the behavior of matter. Lewis structures, molecular geometry, gas laws and solutions form the core progression. This is a separate course from Reactions and Ratios, and the syllabus explicitly recommends reviewing that earlier material when the underlying chemistry or notation is unfamiliar.

What you will learn

• Interpret electronic configurations and bonding models.
• Use molecular geometry to explain structure.
• Practice gas-law and solution calculations.

Who this suits

Beginners with introductory chemistry preparation; review Reactions and Ratios first if physical changes, significant figures or scientific notation are unfamiliar.

Before you enroll

Use the lessons for conceptual study and problem solving. Chemical demonstrations do not make an activity suitable for an unsupervised home experiment. Check the assumed mathematics and chemistry background, show units in calculations and compare your reasoning with worked solutions rather than memorizing an answer.

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Put it into practice

Choose a simple molecule and compare its Lewis structure with a geometry prediction. State the assumptions in the model and explain one property the drawing alone cannot determine.

Source and review

This overview is based on the provider's published information, checked on 12 October 2026. It is an editorial assessment, not a claim that we completed the resource. Time filters are approximate study ranges; projects and exercises can take longer.

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